Abstract: The invention provides a soft, chewable confection obtained without using high heat or dehydration. In one embodiment, the confection contains an active ingredient which consists essentially of an effective amount of at least one probiotic organism. In another embodiment, the confection consists essentially of an effective amount of at least one probiotic organism and an effective amount of at least one prebiotic. In a further embodiment, the confection consists essentially of an effective amount of at least one probiotic organism and a nutrient contained in a glycoprotein matrix, or an enzyme, or both. In yet another embodiment, the confection consists essentially of at least one probiotic organism, at least one prebiotic, and a nutrient contained in a glycoprotein matrix, or an enzyme, or both.

Abstract: The present invention provides a purified amylase inhibitor obtained by a superior process that includes extracting ground beans with supercritical carbon dioxide. The invention also provides a method for inducing weight loss in a mammal in need thereof comprising administering to the mammal, an effective amount of an amylase inhibitor obtained by the superior process. A method for improving post-prandial glucose tolerance in a diabetic mammal comprising administering to the mammal, an effective amount of an amylase inhibitor obtained by the superior process, is also provided.