Japan
Japan-formulated fat absorption inhibitor launches as a supplement
FB3 is a proprietary blend of Coleus forskohlii, Salacia reticulata and Sesamum indicum, which have been standardised for diterpene forskolin, kotanol and salacinol, and sesamin, respectively.
Individually, each of these components has been shown to inhibit fatabsorption with differing degrees and dynamics.
Salacia reticulata root extract has played a role in traditional Ayurvedic medicine as an anti-diabetic herb with established inhibitory action on alpha glucosidase, an enzyme that prevents absorption of excess dietary sugar. Salacia reticulata appears to have the ability to block fat and may reduce the rate of lipid absorption after a meal.
Sesamum indicum seed extract, from sesame seeds, also exerts this activity. This superfood is also a rich source of protein and many essential minerals that is believed to support healthy cardiovascular and circulatory functions.
Coleus forskohlii is best known for supporting weight management. This plant has been used for centuries in traditional Indian food as well as in Ayurvedic medicines. Coleus forskohlii supports fat loss through a cascade of chemical reactions—especially its ability to facilitate the action of hormones within the body.
When combined as FB3, Coleus forskohli, Salacia reticulata and Sesamum indicum supply a safe and effective method of blocking fat, the manufacturers claim.
A clinical study showed that FB3 led to diminished visceral fat, liver fat, body triglycerides, food cravings and caloric intake. Moreover, an in vitro study found that the synergistic action of the Coleus forskohlii and Salacia reticulata in FB3 inhibited fat absorption by 20.7%—almost double the sum of the fat-blocking activity generated by each component alone.
However, the manufacturers claim the most exciting result of this FB3 study was the identification of the ingredient’s inherent safety mechanism, which occurs with the interaction of Coleus forskohlii and Sesamum indicum.
This safety mechanism is intended to moderate FB3’s fat-absorption inhibition abilities, helping prevent the negative gastrointestinal and metabolic side effects that frequently occur with conventional fat blockers.
The study also showed that Coleus forskohli and Salacia reticulata work synergistically to prevent tachyphylaxis, the phenomenon of diminished response to regularly consumed ingredients for targeted action over time. This means that FB3 won’t become less effective over time or as people age, which is a problem with many fat blockers.
"As people are learning to wean themselves from high-fat and high-sugar diets, FB3 can safely assist in not only helping spur weight loss but also, through its action of inhibiting fat absorption, help support cardiovascular system health," said Vladimir Badmaev, ingredient formulator and chief executive of American Medical Holdings.
FB3 is viable in capsules, tablets and healthy foods like nutritional bars, wafers, water-dispersible powders and functional beverages.
