Starch blockers: a potential source of trypsin inhibitors and lectins.

Highly variable levels of amylase, amylase inhibitor, trypsin inhibitor, and lectin activities were found in 10 randomly selected brands of starch blockers. This variability was attributed to the crude nature of the legume protein concentrate used in the formulation of these tablets. In addition to the possible risk to health associated with their trypsin inhibitor and lectin content, the levels of endogenous amylase activity present in such tablets may serve to counteract their alleged effectiveness as inhibitors of starch digestion.