Researchers from the University of South Australia (UniSA) have created a new, food-grade, natural solution for obesity, which they claim not only impacts weight and improves metabolic health but does so without unpleasant side effects.
Engineered from a plant fibre coating (inulin) and a combination of coconut and palm kernel oils (medium chain triglyceride, MCT, oils), the new InuMCT microcapsules reduce inflammation and improve metabolic markers, such as blood glucose levels. Smaller than a red blood cell, the InuMCT microcapsules are created by spray drying an MCT nanoemulsion with a liquid form of inulin. This unique combination enhances its dispersion and anti-inflammatory effects in a solid dosage form that can be taken as a tablet or capsule.
Through in vivo testing over a 21-day period, the study showed that InuMCT microcapsules resulted in:
Significant overall reduction in western diet-induced weight gain after 21 days
Lowered blood sugar by 15%
Reduced inflammatory markers by 78%
Reduced liver enzyme levels by up to 47%
Improved protective gut bacteria by 8.3-fold
"Obesity is a global epidemic with multifaceted health problems that extends far beyond weight gain. We know obesity is a state of systemic inflammation, resulting from complex biochemical pathways, rather than simply excess calories. But despite this, current treatments tend to ignore the role of the gut microbiome, instead focusing on downstream effects, such as body weight and hyperglycaemia. Anti-obesity drugs also tend to upset the gut microbiome, which not only leads to unpleasant side effects such as nausea, stomach pain and diarrhoea, but can also exacerbate long term inflammation and weight gain,” explained co-author of the study, UniSA PhD researcher, Amin Ariaee. "Our research is changing this. The new InuMCT microcapsules are created from food-grade, natural products that actively promote a healthy gut microbiome, reduce inflammation, and significantly reduce excess weight. And the results we're seeing are extremely positive—both for weight reduction and metabolic health."
This pioneering research offers a new perspective on gut-based therapies, providing an innovative, natural option for managing obesity. The researchers now plan to investigate InuMCT's potential as an adjunct therapy in clinical settings.
"Cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke, kidney disease, and even mental health conditions are all associated with obesity. But rather than addressing just one symptom, such as excess weight, we're taking holistic approach to treatment to address all," added senior researcher, Dr Paul Joyce also from UniSA. "Our InuMCT microcapsules deliver a viable and effective means to target obesity and metabolic disease, while concurrently supporting gut health. In this way, they can regulate body weight and better manage metabolic health without the uncomfortable side effects so commonly reported with pharmaceutical obesity treatments. Obesity is a modifiable disease. InuMCT offers a promising strategy for addressing obesity and improving overall health."
The findings were reported in the paper, ‘Therapeutic Potential of Inulin‐Coated MCT Microcapsules in Modulating the Gut Microbiome for Effective Treatment of Diet‐Induced Obesity’, published in Advanced Therapeutics. To access this paper, please click here
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