Glucosulin sounds like a diabetes drug but it’s really a weight loss supplement. According to the products website, Glucosulin works by reducing how much you eat as well as slowing the absorption of sugar (glucose) into the blood stream. Sounds interesting but does it work? What I want to do is review the research on the ingredients in Glucosulin and see what we can discover.
Glucosulin research
From what I can gather from the product website – glucosulin.com – the supplement itself appears to have no published peer reviewed research. I say this because the website shows no research on glucusulin itself. Also, when I searched the National Library of Medicine for “Glucosulin” no relevant studies showed up either. Therefore, the only way to understand this product is to look at the research on its ingredients.
Glucosulin Ingredients
- Glucomannan (Konjac Root)
- Sodium Alginate
- Xanthum Gum
- Mulberry Extract
- Gymnema Slyvestre
- Chromium Picolinate
Let’s now review the evidence for each ingredient.
Glucomannan
This is a type of fiber. One of the ways that fiber helps weight loss is by making people feel full. Glucomannan does this also by expanding in size greatly when it comes in contact with water. In this way, glucomannan stretches the stomach, making you feel like you are full. Because of this property, glucomannan tablets should be used with caution because there are several cases where glucomannan tablets swelled in size while in the esophagus.
Glucomannan capsules may have a reduced chance of this happening but to be safe put one in water to see how fast it expands in size. Here is a product that is a glucomannan powder that people can mix with liquids.
There are also a few studies on glucomannan helping weight loss and this is likely one of the main reasons it's included in this product.
While not all studies show glucomannan effective for weight loss, the logic is sound: trick the brain into thinking the stomach is full and people eat less.
Other research suggests that glucomannan can modestly reduce cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and lower blood sugar in diabetics.
Diabetics should remember that glucomannan may interact with their diabetes drugs so run this by your doctor if your a diabetic.
Sodium Alginate (also called Align)
This is derived from seaweed and is an additive used to make foods thicker. Because it is thought to be indigestible, it makes sense that it would be used in a weight loss product. In other words, like glucomannan, it takes up space in the stomach without giving any nutritional calories. Also like glucomannan, Align may also modestly lower cholesterol in some people. I could not locate any published peer reviewed studies that sodium alginate helps weight loss in humans.
Xanthum Gum
This is another type of food additive frequently showing up in salad dressings and ice cream. It is also sometimes used as a laxative. Xanthum gum also has a blood sugar lowering effect and as such may interact with medications for diabetes. There are no published peer reviewed studies that xanthum gum helps weight loss.
Because xanthum gum can be derived from several foods including wheat, soy or corn, those who are sensitive to these foods should contact the company first to determine where their xanthum gum comes from.
Mulberry Extract
is also used as a laxative due to its fiber content. In theory mulberry may lower blood sugar levels and/or interact with diabetic medications. There are no published peer reviewed studies on mulberry helping weight loss.
Gymnema Slyvestre
This ingredient also may lower blood sugar levels and interact with diabetic medications. There is no published peer reviewed research on gymnema slyestre helping weight loss.
Chromium Picolinate
Chromium frequently shows up in weight loss supplements despite a deluge of evidence that it does not work. Because chromium does appear to have a blood sugar lowering effect, it also sometimes is marketed to those with type II diabetes. For more info, also see my review of chromium.
As with other ingredients mentioned, chromium can interact with diabetic medications including insulin and oral medications like glucophage (metformin) .
Glucosulin Weight Loss Summary
Ingredients that may help weight loss
- Glucomannan (Konjac Root)
- Sodium Alginate (in theory)
Ingredients that lower blood sugar
- Glucomannan (Konjac Root)
- Xanthum Gum
- Mulberry Extract 30:1 Ratio
- Gymnema Slyvestre
- Chromium Picolinate
Of all the ingredients in Glucosulin most of the weight loss research is on only one substance – glucomannan. Here is glucomann on Amazon for those who want to compare prices.
Because of a possible significant blood sugar lowering effect (in diabetics especially), I honestly do not like the name, Glucosulin. It sounds like a diabetes drug (which it is not!). The product appears to be at least partially based on the idea that lowering blood sugar causes weight loss – which is not true. Reducing calories causes weight loss. Because of this fact, I come to the conclusion that it is Glucomannan (Konjac Root) that is the active ingredient in Glucosulin.
Who makes Glucosulin?
The product website – Glucosulin.com – does not readily list any company name or contact email or phone number that I can locate by looking at the main page. Upon looking at the bottom of the page, at the “Terms and Conditions” page, I see a reference to “Health Resource.” I assume this may be the company in charge of Glucosulin? According to the Better Business Bureau File Health Research is located at 650 N Rose Dr #136, Placentia, CA 92870. If you Google this address, you'll see it appears to be a shopping center. I dont think this is where they make Glucosulin. The BBB file givies Glucusulin a rating of “F” as of 4/20/14. Check the file for updates as ratings sometimes change quickly.
At the Terms and Conditions page I also found a customer support number of 888-237-7172. Interestingly, when I called this number, the person answered “Colon Flow” another supplement that I have reviewed previously.
The customer service person I spoke with told me that Natural Health Network LLC is the company behind Glucosulin. This company is located at 2500 E Imperial Hwy Ste 201-273, Brea, CA 92821. According to the Google link, this appears to be some type of shopping center . Notice that this is a different address than the BBB listed.
How to contact Glucosulin
In the Terms and Conditions page of Glucosulin.com, they list a customer service number of 888 237 7172. The Better Business Bureau also lists 800 252 3314 as a contact number.
Will Glucosulin Work?
Fiber can help people lose weight. Because glucosulin has glucomannan which is a fiber, it makes sense that this product may work for some people. But will glucamannan work better than other fibers – like those in fruits and vegetables? That is the question people should ask themselves.
Here is Glucosulin and glucomannan powder on Amazon for those who want to compare prices. There are also glucomman capsules for those who don't like the powders.
Buyer Beware
A one month supply of Glucosulin costs about $50 according to the product website. That is a lot of money for a fiber supplement. Compare that to glucoamman which I feel is the active ingredient in tis product. There is a “free 30 trial” available on the Glucosulin website but, if you choose this option, you will automatically be sent a new 60 day supply every 60 days at a cost of $39.98 per bottle. In addition, your credit card will also be charged $ 7.80 for shipping and handling. Also this option does not allow you to return the product if you do not like it. These terms are stated clearly on the Glucosulin website. Here is Glucosulin on Amazon for those who want to compare prices and dont want to deal with the auto-ship program.
What do you think?
Joe says
Genevieve, I hope glucosulin does not let you get dehydrated since you said you were going to the bathroom more than usual. If its really doing that to you I would stop and send glucosulin back and get your money back.
The sales rep was pushy… I wonder if they get commissions?
Genevieve says
awe man.. now I’m concerned this is my second day on this and i found myself going to the bathroom so much more, now I know why.
I am Type 2 and was curious if it would interact with the Metformin – Glucophage that I take and the rep who also was very pushy and stated they have them go through the whole discount coupon stuff and to bare with her.
I hope this is not another scam I actually feel like canceling now but have to wait and I am curious to know if they will give me a hard time….
Pam of Montgomery, AL says
I was about to purchase Glucosulin for weight loss but after reading the comments I CHANGED MY MIND Thank you for all the opinions.
Joe says
Kiki, Im glad you found my site as well. About your mom, I understand your frustration. She needs to understand that gaining weight is not about how much sugar or fat a food has. Gaining weight is all about how many calories a food has. Its possible for a food low in sugar to still have a lot of calories.
If glucosulin worked it is because it made her feel “full” because of the fiber in the product. It all boils down to calories in the end.
Also, show you mom that when she looks at a food label, that the amount of sugar (and calories) in a food are based on only 1 serving.
Many packages of food contain two or more servings per container. So if a bottle of soda lists only 100 calories but is a 20 oz soda, that means it has 2.5 servings per bottle. So that 100 calories becomes 250 calories if your mom drank the whole bottle.
Here is a trick I use when I read food labels. Look at the percentages on the right side of the food label.
if you see 20% or more, its “high” in that ingredient.
if you see 5% or less, then its “low” in that ingredient.
So if, a food is low in sugar but has 20% or more next to fat , its high in fat – and fat has a lot of calories.
Does your moms insurance let her get a consultation with a registered dietitian (RD). Many insurance companies do this. if yes then the RD can help her understand how to eat well to stay healthy. they can also make her up a food. You can find an RD near you by going to the RD website http://www.eatright.org/
Remember you want a “registered dietitian” -not a “nutritionist”. Anyone can call themselves a nutritionist. look for the letters “RD” and you’ll know you have the right person.
Here is a very good website that I read myself that has good articles on its site http://www.todaysdietitian.com/
If your mom does not have insurance, local hospitals often have free nutrition and diabetes services that can help. They are free.
I hear your frustration in your words. I have been there myself. your a good daughter for helping your mom. She may not believe you because she still thinks of you as “her little girl”. If that’s the case that’s why I suggested somebody else.
I hope this helps you
Joe
Kiki says
I’m soooooo glad I found this site before ordering this for my mother. She’s n her 50s and its harder for her to lose the weight now. I’m trying to get her focused on eating correctly but its very difficult. She’s extremely set n her ways and need “something sweet” every now and then. She also thinks that because cakes and ice creams are sugar free that they’re okay for her to eat. I really don’t know what to do anymore. It just doesn’t seem like I’m getting through to her. Any help or suggestions you may have are greatly appreciated.
Joe says
Thanks Kat I appreciate that.
Kat says
Joe, Thanks for the pep talk (above). I will try to focus on the benefits of a healthy lifestyle as you suggest. Thanks too and for the article , “Can Type II Diabetes be Cured.” You promote hopefulness and a positive attitude – you’re a nice man.
Joe says
Kat, I understand how you feel and you are not alone. People often get interested in a supplement (glucosulin etc) because of the benefits or alleged benefits. This is a common rule of sales.
What are the most important benefits of being healthy for you? whatever they are, write down those benefits. I’d bet if you thought about the benefits then that might make things easier.
We all have our weaknesses and everybody will fall off the wagon at some point. Cheating on Sat night does not erase all the good you did Sunday -Friday. Its just a speed bump -and a minor one at that. Thinking about the benefits may make things easier. 🙂
Kat says
Hi. Thanks for the valuable information. After visiting the disappointing Glucosulin website and reading the comments here, I’m convinced this is another product designed to exploit diabetics. Like many Type II’s, I’m always looking for a panacea. I’m well aware of the value of proper diet, exercise, and weight maintenance and I work at it. But at times, I have difficulty with the rigid lifestyle–constantly having to say no to myself, constantly having to push myself. And I know if I take a break from it, I will pay. I think I’m not alone in my feelings. And I think the Glucosulin people, and others like them, see an opportunity to capitalize on others’ misfortune. I seriously doubt their product will help anyone much.
Joe says
Thanks for the name of that book Shawn. Ill have to check it out.
Shawn M. says
Dear Joe.,
The book called ” The Diabetes Solution” by Doctor Richard K. Bernstein has been a huge help in understanding the disease and the changes that I needed to make to get better.
Mr. Bernstein has Type 1, and it’s because of his efforts that we have meters in our homes today so that we can measure the levels right at home.
I made changes in the foods that I ate and increased by exercise program from 25 minutes per day to 1 hour. I was already involved in exercise (five years – Karate – now Black Belt) but it was not enough time. Since I didn’t know much about food, I
took a free course offered by a nutritionist at our local grocery store, which gave me the tools for what to eat, how much and when.
The combination of the book, exercise, and the food information is what I’ve used so far (without supplements or additional products (so far).
On Sept. 15th, I weighed 233 lbs. I now weigh 195 lbs.
I also believe that it’s possible to reverse type 2 as well.
My goal is to get to 167 lbs or 170 lbs.
I saw the commercial about the supplement, and was more curious than anything.
I’ll keep posting the results and findings.
Shawn M. (Canada)
Joe says
Shawn thanks for taking the time to write. Don’t know why they are so pushy? So many people have said that about Glucosulin sales people. Fantastic weight loss you have accomplished! I just wrote something on how to cure type II diabetes – you basically are doing exactly what I said to do
http://www.joe-cannon.com/home/wp/can-type-ii-diabetes-be-cured/
Keep well up there in Canada Shawn!
Shawn M. says
I just got off the phone with these people, and again very pushy sales lady. Glad I googled this site while talking to her.
She then told me that the free offer was not available in Canada (lol), but she could send me at full retail with a money back guarantee….
Before I ended the call I told her that I was reading the feedback on the product….
no thanks for the weight gain of 20 lbs…didn’t want to go in that direction.
When I was first diagnosed with type two in Sept I weighed 233 lbs,
I now weigh 195…No supplements, no other stuff…just diet changes, and increase of exercise time from 25 minutes per day to one hour….
Signed,
Shawn M. Canada
Joe says
Sherry keep me posted on how it goes with Glucosullin
Sherry L. White says
Called 1-888-560-8878 talked to a Rep. by the name of Michael # 1540 he also gave me the customer service number which was 1-800-218-5660 to make me feel at ease about calling. Michael also offered me the auto ship which I declined, a coupon savings program which I also declined. All of this was being recorded. My offer was 2 bottles at a trial period of 30 days.
If at all I would decide that the product was not right for me I would be able to send back the empty bottles at no further charge to me. All I would be out of is the 11.80 S&H. I’m hoping everything is legit and nothing goes wrong. Keeping my fingers crossed.
Joe says
Cindy, thanks for letting me know about that -and I feel the same way about pushy salespeople! I’m also glad you found me as well 🙂
cindy says
hi, just wanted to chime in with this Glucosulin. Saw the ad on TV. Called the number and the woman was very pushy with the sales pitch. Tried to get her to send me a brochure on the product. She ignored my request and continued to pressure me into buying a bottle. Hung up on her. I HATE PUSHY TWERPS. So glad I found your website.
Joe says
Klaudia, I’m sorry to hear that. Odds are you did not gain 20 lbs of fat in 3 weeks. I think a good amount of that weight is water. Still, I know how discouraging that can be. Try not to focus on it and try anew tomorrow. All things yield to firm resolve in the end.
Klaudia says
I tried already, and after 3 weeks (when I was very hungry after I took a pills) I made some research.
And doctors are RIGHT!!! (unfortunately!) Because lower your blood sugar makes you VERY HUNGRY!!!!!!
Anyway, I gained 20 lbs. in 3 weeks. SORRY guys!
Joe says
Hi Cherrie, I’m glad you found me. I write about many things you see on TV and the web so check back regularly 🙂 I’m sure they won’t give you any trouble canceling it. Leave another comment if they do.