1. What is Beta Fast GXR Glucose Balance?
   
2. What is Ayurvedic medicine?
   
3. Why use Beta Fast?
   
4. What makes Beta Fast different from other Gymnema Sylvestre products?
   
5. How does Beta Fast work?
   
6. What are the practical uses of Beta Fast?
   
7. How can I maximize Beta Fast's ability to curb sweetness cravings?
   
8. What results can I expect from taking Beta Fast?
   
9. What is the difference between Beta Fast Glucose Balance and Glucose Tolerance?
   
10. What safety issues should I know about Beta Fast products?
    
11. Is Beta Fast safe to take during pregnancy?
    
12. Is Beta Fast safe for children?
    
13. Can I take Beta Fast in conjunction with insulin or oral hypoglycemic drugs?
    
14. Where can I get more information about GS, Beta Fast Glucose Balance and Glucose Tolerance?
    

What is Beta Fast GXR Glucose Balance?

Beta Fast GXR Glucose Balance is a clinically tested, extended release tablet formulation of a patented extract of Gymnema Sylvestre (GS) leaves. Each tablet contains 400mg Gymnema Sylvestre (GS) extract, standardized to 25% Gymnemic acids as its sole active ingredient. All its other ingredients are considered inactive. Some of these inactives are used in the process to generate the tablet’s extended release effect, which is formulated to absorb over a 6 to 8 hour period in the system. Inactives include: Microcrystalline Cellulose, Methylcellulose, Stearic Acid, Magnesium Stearate and Silicon Dioxide. Beta Fast contains no sugar, starch, yeast, preservatives or artificial colors and flavors. Tablets are clear coated. GS or Gurmar, meaning "Sugar Destroyer" in Hindi, is a plant from the milkweed (Asclepiadaceae) family that grows in the Southern and Central regions of India. Its leaves have been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine to help control blood sugar levels. Clinical trials and in-vitro laboratory studies demonstrate that Beta Fast and GS promote healthy glucose metabolism.* Beta Fast products are developed, researched, marketed and distributed by Informulab, owned by DG Marketing, 2005 S. 91 Street, Omaha, Nebraska, USA.

What is Ayurvedic medicine?

Ayurvedic medicine is an ancient traditional healing system practiced in India and Sri Lanka employing counseling, diet, yoga, meditation, massage, and herbal supplementation to treat specific illnesses. The system is derived from the Vedas, or divine Hindu books of knowledge. Ayurveda is a Sanskrit term derived from two root words, "Ayus," meaning life, and, "Vid," meaning knowledge. The system strives to not only heal the sick, but also to prevent illness and preserve quality of life by combining science with philosophy.

Why use Beta Fast GXR Glucose Balance or Glucose Tolerance?

Beta Fast GXR Glucose Balance and Glucose Tolerance both contain a standardized extract of GS, so each tablet delivers a consistent dose of the herb's active principle. Beta Fast GXR is manufactured using an the exclusive GXR extended release process, delivering Gymnema Sylvestre to the system for hours beyond that of conventionally produced supplements. Informulab employs the latest tablet manufacturing technology, clinical testing and Good Manufacturing Processes (cGMP's) combined with the finest quality Gymnema Sylvestre extract available. This attention to detail insures that every order contains product of unsurpassed quality--satisfaction guaranteed. Glucose Tolerance combines the standardized extract of GS with Chromium picolinate and Vitamin C. Numerous studies demonstrate that Chromium, a trace mineral, promotes glucose metabolism by improving cellular sensitivity to insulin.* For more information on the Chromium used in Beta Fast GXR Glucose Tolerance, please visit Nutrition 21's web site. Nutrition 21 produces the clinically tested, patented Chromium picolinate found in Beta Fast GXR Glucose Tolerance.

What makes Beta Fast GXR different from other Gymnema Sylvestre products?

Beta Fast differs greatly from other Gymnema products on the market in four important ways: Beta Fast is a standardized extract of Gymnema Sylvestre. Standardization guarantees that each and every tablet contains a consistent level of the active ingredient GS extract. No extraneous catalysts or other unproven ingredients are included in the Beta Fast formula. Informulab relies upon its own internally developed clinical and in-vitro research and peer-reviewed scientific data to support any claims made about our products. While most other brands of GS are sold in capsules, Beta Fast GXR is manufactured from the highest quality GS extract in 400mg micro coated tablets for palatable dissolution on the tongue and easy swallowing. Allowing the taste buds to briefly absorb the herb creates its unique crave curbing characteristic, something capsules cannot do. Beta Fast GXR tablets are formulated with the unique GXR (Gymnema Extended Release) process. Only Beta Fast GXR offers GS in a slow, steady release formula.

How does Beta Fast GXR work?

Beta Fast, when digested, forms a series of Gymnemic acids in the system. These acids, in combination with leaf saponins and other substances of the GS herb work in four different ways:

GS temporarily prevents the taste buds from recognizing sweetness, helping prevent sweetness cravings.1 Sweet foods, by nature, are self-habituating. The first bite of sweet food results in a desire for more. Suspending the tongue's ability to recognize sweetness eliminates this vicious cycle, helping reduce blood glucose and appetite simultaneously.2 Note: Dissolution of Beta Fast tablet for at least 1 minute on the tongue generates this activity. Ingestion alone may not necessarily curb sweetness cravings.* Scientific evidence demonstrates that GS suppresses the absorption of sugar in the system. Some evidence exists claiming the molecular structure of GS resembles that of glucose, temporarily attaching to the intestinal receptors that normally accept glucose. This reception of GS molecules inhibits intestinal glucose absorption, thus lowering blood sugar levels.*3 Strong evidence shows that GS bolsters the cellular uptake of glucose.*5 Clinical studies in lab animals demonstrate that GS extract appears to promote rejuvenation of essential pancreatic Beta cells, the key cell responsible in the generation of insulin. Increases in endogenous insulin production are often attributed to this mechanism.*4

What are the practical uses of Beta Fast?

Clinical studies have shown the active ingredient in Beta Fast used in several ways, including:

Reducing the appetite for sweet tasting foods, which can result in weight loss.* Promoting balanced blood sugar levels due to inhibition of intestinal glucose absorption.* Supporting healthy pancreatic function.*

How can I maximize Beta Fast's ability to curb sweetness cravings?

By allowing the tablet to dissolve on the tongue for approximately one minute before swallowing, Beta Fast temporarily eliminates the taste buds' ability to recognize sweets. This interesting and unique characteristic typically lasts for 30 to 60 minutes after contact with the tongue.

What results can I expect from taking Beta Fast?

When used in combination with a program of proper, balanced diet and regular exercise, Beta Fast can often help individuals achieve their glucose control objectives. Of course, results vary by individual.* Beta Fast is not designed to replace pharmaceutical or insulin regimens.*

What is the difference between Beta Fast Glucose Balance and Glucose Tolerance?

Beta Fast Glucose Tolerance differs from the original Glucose Balance formula as it contains 25% less Gymnema sylvestre extract (300mg vs 400mg), however it does contain Chromium picolinate 200mcg and Vitamin C 100mg, neither of which are found in the original Glucose Balance formula. Both are extended release tablets, designed to absorb over approximately 8 to 10 hours. Each contain the following active ingredients: Glucose Balance: 400mg standardized Gymnema sylvestre extract per extended release tablet. Glucose Tolerance: 300mg standardized Gymnema sylvestre extract, 200mcg Chromium picolinate, 100mg Vitamin C per extended release tablet. Both formulations contain inactive ingredients to slow their release in the system. Chromium is proven effective in improving cellular sensitivity to insulin. When working correctly, insulin acts as the key to allow glucose into the cell to be metabolized as fuel. Insulin resistance, or the cell's inability to accept the insulin molecule, results in glucose remaining in the bloodstream, elevating glucose levels. Elevated glucose levels can cause damage to the nervous and circulatory systems. Chromium is an essential trace mineral, very small quantities are vital to the system's process of glucose metabolism. People with diabetes are often found deficient of chromium. Vitamin C blended in the Glucose Tolerance product is employed to improve absorption of the Chromium, which is often difficult to digest. If your physician has diagnosed you as "insulin resistant" then the Glucose Tolerance formula is recommended. If you have not received such a diagnosis, the original Beta Fast Glucose Balance formula would be the best choice.

What safety and dosage issues should I know about Beta Fast GXR Glucose Balance and Glucose Tolerance?

The active ingredients in Beta Fast are considered non-toxic by the Registry of Toxic Effects of Chemical Substances (RTECS). As a dietary supplement,for optimum benefit, take one tablet twice daily on a consistent basis. If your weight exceeds 180 lbs, consider using 3 tablets per day to achieve desired results. Users weighing less than 130 lbs, try just 1 tablet per day instead of the recommended 2 tablets. A decline in blood glucose levels may occur with consistent use, so adjustments to diet, exercise, insulin or pharmaceutical regimens may be necessary. If you are diabetic, borderline diabetic, pregnant or currently taking oral hypoglycemic medication, consult a health professional before using.

Is Beta Fast safe to take during pregnancy?

While its active ingredient is extremely safe, no controlled experiments of its effect on pregnant women have been conducted. Physician consultation is recommended.

Is Beta Fast safe for children?

Some studies conducted with GS have included children ages 10 - 16. Results were encouraging, however the group was quite small, so definite results cannot be ascertained. Several very young Beta Fast users have experienced success with the product. Please call us for references at 888-321-8522. Physician consulation is recommended.

Can I take Beta Fast while using insulin or oral hypoglycemic drugs?

GS, Beta Fast's active ingredient, very rarely reacts adversely to oral hypoglycemic drugs or insulin. Most users experience a gentle, consistent reduction in average blood glucose levels over time. Adjustments in your current diet, exercise, insulin or pharmaceutical regimen may be necessary. Consult your physician or pharmacist before use.

Where can I get more information about Gymnema Sylvestre and Beta Fast?

For more information including bibliographical entries, related articles and scientific abstracts, please leave us feedback by clicking here.

References:
1. Warren RP, et al. Inhibition of the sweet taste by Gymnema sylvestre. Nature. 1969 Jul 5; 223(201): 94-95.
2. Tordoff, M. and Alleva, A.M., Effect of Drinking Soda Sweetened with Aspartame or High Fructose Corn Syrup on Food Intake and Body Weight. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 1990 51, 963-96
Also: Brala PM, Hagen RL,Effects of sweetness perception and caloric value of a preload on short term intake, Physiol Behav 1983 Jan;30(1):1-9.
3. Yoshikawa M, et al. Medicinal foodstuffs. IX. The inhibitors of glucose absorption from the leaves of Gymnema sylvestre R. BR. (Asclepiadaceae): structures of gymnemosides a and b. Chem Pharm Bull (Tokyo). 1997 Oct; 45(10): 1671-1676.
4. Shanmugasundaram ER, et al. Possible regeneration of the islets of Langerhans in streptozotocin-diabetic rats given Gymnema sylvestre leaf extracts. J Ethnopharmacol. 1990 Oct; 30(3): 265-279.
5. Persaud SJ, Al-Majed H, Raman A, Jones PM. Gymnema sylvestre stimulates insulin release in vitro by increased membrane permeability. J Endocrinol. 1999 Nov;163(2):207-12