Beta-Cyclodextrins are ring-shaped oligosaccharides which occur in the human colon by digestion of starch by bacteria. Beta-Cyclodextrins are commonly used as nutraceuticals for their health benefits on digestion and blood glucose levels.
They have also used in pharmaceuticals and food additives due to their ability to increase solubility. Beta-Cyclodextrin has the chemical formula C42H70O35 and a molecular weight of 1135 g/mol.
Beta-Cyclodextrin Benefits and Uses
Beta-Cyclodextrin is a tasteless and odourless saccharide that is derived from the enzymatic conversion of starch. Chemically, it has a hydrophobic interior and a hydrophilic exterior and is commonly used in pharmaceuticals and industrial goods for its ability to enhance bioavailability and solubility of the guest compounds.
Beta-Cyclodextrin is also consumed as a dietary supplement for its perceived beneficial effects on the gut microbiota. Beta-Cyclodextrin has been found to act as a dietary fibre, helping to control blood sugar levels by decreasing the glycemic index of the foods they are consumed with.
Beta-Cyclodextrins also act as prebiotics. These are non-digestible foods that support the proliferation of beneficial bacterium such as Bifidobacterium. Anecdotally, supplementing with Beta-Cyclodextrin may also improve intestinal health and immunity as populating the gut with beneficial microbes has been linked to improved intestinal health and immunity.
Beta-Cyclodextrin supplements are also known by a few different names, including:
- Betadex
- Rhodonap N
- Cyclomaltoheptaose
- b-Cyclodextrin
- Cycloheptaglucan
- Caraway
Scientific Consensus:
Beta-Cyclodextrin supplements are considered generally considered safe and nontoxic when administered orally.
Beta-Cyclodextrin are well tolerated when consumed orally as they do not get absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. There is not enough data to say whether this product is safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women, or if it can be used by children.
