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?
Christopher says
Darlene, Joe is not affiliated with Glucosulin. He only wrote a post about it. Here is an excerpt from an earlier comment by Joe:”I am not the glucosulin company. I wrote a popular review on glucosulin but have no affiliation with glucosulin.”
Wayne A. Bottlick says
Hi Joe – I took too long, but I still wanted to respond to K1ORCA’s note, who commented to me that Type II’s don’t always have a choice any more than Type I’s. I am aware of this, and I apologize if I came off as insensitive to this fact. BUT… I hoped to encourage the many type II’s that CAN achieve symptom relief from diet and exercise to do so.
Unfortunately, as Type II’s age, they become more dependent upon meds to cover the shortfall. But you can achieve it with diet and exercise, DO IT!!
Also, weight gain is not actually a “side effect” of insulin; it’s insulin’s purpose. Insulin is the magic potion that allows your body to metabolize your food. Metabolize means absorb, and ultimately convert to glucose for energy or fat for storage for later conversion to energy during leaner times.
This, again, is endocrinology (fascinating, but tedious at times). Understanding the basics of your body’s metabolic process goes a long way to understanding how to manage your disease – be it Type I or Type II. In either case, know more, live better. Good Luck!
Joe says
Gea, thanks for taking the time to write about your experience with glucosulin. Hopefully you are doing some type of physical activity – even walking can help your A1C levels and type II diabetes.
Darlene Malueg says
I sent for a trail bottle of your glucosulin .I paid 11.80 for it and I haven’t even gotten it yet. You took out $ 31.79 out of my check book before I could even try it. I want you to put back the $31.79 right now. I will send the empty bottle back. If this is how you ran your business I wont want any part of it ,I will be looking for the money you are going to put back in my checking or send a check back to me for the full $31.79 ASAP Thank you Darlene Malueg
gae tana maffei says
I am not sure what I want to say. Specifically, Glucosulin did nothing for my blood sugars…some 1st morning levels were slightly better…but overall…the bloating and other side effects…including nausea were not worth the minimal change I experienced.
My A1C was the same…and when i researched each ingredient separately…the only positive factor was the possible assist to the involved organs…particularly the heart…but all of them can negatively affect the prescribed meds…..
so the cost and the underwhelming physical response…means I will not continue the herbals…so many of us overweight…or diabetic…or both …are desperate to get started at losing..and improving blood sugars….for a longer and healthier life…
I can’t think so negatively about the prospect of change……….. that i only try the miracle cures…..it is encouraging to listen to others…who are also searching I have no doubt that a small percentage of consumers who use glucosulin…are getting results…mostly from placebo effect…creating a positive attitude…and abetter eating and exercise plan…thanks for your support…I know I’ll continue to check in…good luck to everyone
CAROLYN PULLIN says
PLEASE DO NOT SEND ME ANY MORE BOTTLES FOR THE TIME BEING. I WILL CONTACT YOU WHEN I NEED MORE. AS OF NOW I HAVE NOT LOST WEIGHT. I TEND TO GET EXTREMELY HUNGRY ESP AT NIGHT. I HAVE BEEN TAKING 2 CAPS IN AM AND 2 IN PM. I HAVE THE GLUSOSULIN + THE VITAMINS.
Joe says
Gerry,
talk to your doctor about your desire to lose 50 pounds. They may have programs to help you or point you to something /someone who can help you. There are dietitians who specialize in cancer. they may be able to come up with an eating program to help you lose weight.
Ask your doctor if its really true you cant “exercise at all”. Walking around the house is a type of physical activity. If your doctor says its ok, ask if they can recommend a physical therapist etc who can design a exercise program to work around your cancer surgery.
I think this is the best way to go about this. Ask your doctor and let me know if they came up with any solutions for you.
Gerry says
Have breast cancer (twice), diabetic and high blood pressure. The meds I take for the cancer causes hunger constantly. I can not exercise because of the surgery 4 months ago and will probably need another 6 – 8 months before I can start to exercise. Any suggestions? I take meds for diabetes and high blood pressure. Would like to lose about 50 lbs.
Joe says
Jennifer, Ive never seen any glucosulin PCOS research. There is a little research that the vitamin Inositol might help some symptoms here is a link to the study
http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJM199904293401703
There is also some research that chromium may help blood sugar levels also with PCOS
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16730719?dopt=Abstract
I hope that helps Jennifer
jennifer says
Just wondering if this would help with PCOS. Any idea? It’s all about Insulin and Glucose. Any info would be nice thanks!!!!!
Debbie says
The most effective ingredient is the Glucomannan (Konjac Root) which you can buy for half the price at your local health food store or on the internet. It really does make you feel full, just make sure you drink a glass of water with it. My weight and cholesterol have both dropped just by taking 1 pill twice a day. I heard about the Konjak root from Dr Oz’s show he has been very instrumental in my over health improvements including pain relief I received from a healer he had on his show.
Scott says
Over the counter drugs like this can be dangerous, which is why they have not applied for FDA approval.
Diabetics walk a fine line when it comes to blood glucose absorption and metabolism. As every patient responds a little differently to any drug, anyone using these unapproved products is taking a big chance.
kate says
Check the ripoff reports website ripoffreport.com/directory/glucosulin.aspx for a whole ton of complaints about the company. This is not a company you want to be dealing with, even if the product worked, which apparently it does not.
Joe says
Elise, thanks for taking the time to write and congrats on loseing that almost 100 lbs! Ok so you gained some weight back; the important thing is that you did it – and you can do it again. Success leaves clues. Just do what you did before and you will get there. I know you will…:)
Elise says
Thank you for the very informative article. I totally agree that the name of this supplement is misleading. I am the mother of a type 1 diabetic and sister of a type 2 diabetic and an overweight woman. I was very interested in a FAST FIX for my weight problem. I thought it would reduce my insulin resistance due to the name of the supplement.
Reading the article, my husband and I were amazed by how deceiving the name is. The risk of having lower blood sugars as a result of this supplement should be written on the label and emphasized that it is not suitable for diabetics, whether type 1 or 2!
The only way to lose weight is to reduce calories and modify behaviors. Weight Watchers is a great plan and not difficult. I lost close to 100 pounds on it; was never hungry and my knee and feet pain subsided. However, I did gain a lot back…because I did not change my behavior! My doctor recommends either Weight Watchers or a diabetic exchange diet because it is well balanced and easy to follow.
Thanks again for your brutal honesty! I fear some serious consequences will result if the wrong people take this supplement. BUYER BEWARE!
Nosipho Bangura says
Thanks Joe. I was diagnosed with PCOS with insulin resistance a year ago and have struggling to lose weight. I started using glucosulin three weeks ago. I am pleased to say that it is working for me. I regret not taking my weight when I started, but I am beginning to fit nicely in old clothes again. I have recommended it to my mom who is a Type II diabetic and my friend who has PCOS.
Mpho
Sudan
Ray says
Good for you! I appreciate your frank appraisal and agree about the name (misleading).
Joe says
Sarah, I am not the glucosulin company. I wrote a review on glucosulin but I have no connection to glucosulin. Im not sure what you mean when you say you dont want it to act against your diabetes. If you read my glucosulin review it should answer a lot of your questions. To order glucosulin you would have to contact the company that makes glucosulin. I hope this helps.
sarah says
i want to order glucosulin .i have diabetes and i don’t want it to act against my diabetes. please e-mail my on how to order some.
Joe says
Hi Ken,
Has your wife considered exercise in a pool? Many health clubs have pool exercise classes that can help her. Has she tried an elliptical? Ellipticals have all the benefits of treadmills but no jarring on the knees.
What about a stationary bike – or a real bike. Bicycles put hardly any stress on the knees. When I ride my bike, its like I’m 10 years old again – I love it!
If she belongs to a health club, strength training for the upper body can help her sugar metabolism and diabetes.
I’ve written about type II diabetes in the past at my other website, hopefully this helps her http://www.joe-cannon.com/home/wp/can-type-ii-diabetes-be-cured/
The key to beating type II diabetes – and it can be defeated- is just make small changes. I hope this helps Ken