Guar Gum

Definition

A food additive made from a legume called the guar bean.

Also Known As

Guaran, Guar

Health Impact

Some studies indicate that guar gum could be beneficial for some elements of health such as digestion, blood sugar and cholesterol levels, and weight maintenance. However, it can be dangerous in large amounts and has been banned in the use of weight loss supplements after causing obstruction of the esophagus and small bowel and, in some cases, even death when added to a product in the 1990s. Although the amounts added to food are much lower, guar gum can still cause side effects like gas, bloating, and indigestion. Some people may also have an allergic reaction to guar gum.

Sources

• Esophageal and small bowel obstruction from guar gum-containing "diet pills": analysis of 26 cases reported to the Food and Drug Administration

  Pub Med

• Guar gum. A review of its pharmacological properties, and use as a dietary adjunct in hypercholesterolaemia

  Pub Med