Daily OTC Pearl: Beano

OTC/Lifestyle Pearl of the Day: Beano

Indication: Beano is an OTC supplement that contains a natural enzyme called alpha-galactosidase, which helps prevent flatulence, abdominal bloating, and stomach pain.

Insight:

• When taken before eating, Beano works to break down and digest complex carbohydrates—such as those found in certain vegetables (including broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage), legumes (including lentils, beans, and nuts), and whole grains—which commonly cause gas.
• Beano works to digest sugars that are in many complex carbohydrates, including raffinose, stachyose, and verbascose. Beano also works on sugars called oligosaccharides and polysaccharides.
• There are no known common adverse effects (AEs) of Beano; however, it is always possible for any drug or supplement to cause AEs in some people.
• If you have diabetes or a genetic condition called galactosemia, you should not take Beano without consulting a health care provider first. Both galactosemia and diabetes affect how the body processes sugar.
• Beano may be taken as a liquid, tablet, or a meltaway tablet. Beano should be taken immediately before eating foods that cause gas, but this supplement is also effective if taken up to 30 minutes after eating. It should not be used in cooking because heat will make it break down and it won't work.

Sources:

Beano: Benefits, Side Effects, Dosage, and Interactions (verywellhealth.com)

Beano Ultra 800 Gas Prevention And Digestive Enzyme Supplement - 110ct : Target