Weight loss is a frequently sought treatment from cosmetic and functional point of view. Diet and exercise are commonly recommended therapies, but require patience and consistency. If these are ineffective or a quick fix is needed, drugs and surgery are the only options available. These are effective but not without a cost.
What if weight loss becomes easy without any strict diet and side effects? This might not be just a wishful thinking.
Researchers at Sichuan University, China have developed small, edible microbeads combining green tea polyphenols and vitamin E as a core, coated in seaweed derived polymer shell. Green tea has always been known for its ability to promote weight loss by increasing metabolism. Combining green tea with tocopherol offers a synergistic effect by improving metabolism, reducing metabolic inflammation and increasing antioxidant defense.
How does this combination work?
The polymer shell protects the microbeads from stomach acid, allowing them to reach intestine. In the intestine, the coating expands and exposes the fat binding core which binds to dietary fats, preventing absorption and allowing the body to excrete trapped fat.
What did the study show?
The study was initially performed in rats and the rats who were fed these microbeads lost 17% of their body weight in just 30 days without any side effects. Rats fed with Orlistat, which is a standard fat blocking drug showed gastrointestinal side effects.
How to consume?
These microbeads are nearly flavorless and researchers suggest to consume them by incorporating in desserts, beverages and yogurts.
After the successful trials in rats, 26 human participants have been enrolled and initial human data is expected within a year.
Bottom line
With the rising obesity rates and systemic conditions like diabetes and hypertension, this innovation provides a natural tool to manage weight loss. If successful in humans, this tiny bead would actually be a game changer for weight loss.
MBH/PS