Alpha-Galactosidase
Also known as: alpha-gal, Beano enzyme, Aspergillus niger alpha-galactosidase, melibiase
Alpha-galactosidase breaks down the raffinose-family oligosaccharides in beans, lentils, cruciferous vegetables, and whole grains that humans cannot digest and that otherwise ferment into gas in the colon. Supplement-grade enzyme is fermented from Aspergillus niger and taken with the first bite of a meal. Two randomized double-blind studies, one measuring breath hydrogen and gas-related symptoms and an older crossover trial of the original consumer product, support its use for meal-related gas. It is sold as a stand-alone tablet or capsule and included in digestive enzyme blends aimed at bloating. Activity is quoted in GalU.
Research summary
Hydrolyzes alpha-1,6 galactosidic bonds in raffinose, stachyose, and verbascose before they reach the colon; studied for reductions in breath hydrogen and flatulence after oligosaccharide-rich meals.
Dosage
Daily amounts, of compound.
| Lowest studied | Typical range | Highest studied | Upper limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| — | — | — | — |
Dose by activity: roughly 150–300 GalU with the first bite of an oligosaccharide-rich meal, repeating with each such meal. Milligram doses are left null because raw-material potency (GalU per gram) varies widely between suppliers; derive mg from the supplier's assay. Effects are per meal.
Standardization: Activity-standardized: 150–300 GalU per serving (GalU = galactosidase units, FCC); supplier states GalU per gram
Source material: Aspergillus niger fermentation
As supplied: Manufacturers quote activity (GalU per gram), not mass; mg per serving must be derived from the supplier's potency.
Format suitability
- Capsule
- Powder
- Tablet
- Softgel
- Gummy
- Liquid
Heat- and moisture-sensitive; capsule, dry powder, or low-heat chewable tablet.
Formulation notes
Releases galactose from oligosaccharides, so it is not appropriate for people with galactosemia. Activity declines with heat and humidity.
Sources
- The effect of oral alpha-galactosidase on intestinal gas production and gas-related symptoms. (Di Stefano 2007)PubMed
- Does Beano prevent gas? A double-blind crossover study of oral alpha-galactosidase to treat dietary oligosaccharide intolerance. (Ganiats 1994)PubMed
- Food Chemicals Codex (USP) — enzyme activity unit definitionsReference
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