Fancy shedding a few pounds? Your daily cuppa might just help! Recent findings suggest that a common hot drink, costing as little as 4p, could mimic the effects of weight loss injections. Researchers have highlighted natural compounds found in certain foods and drinks that may resemble the weight-regulating effects of GLP-1 injections. GLP-1, a hormone produced in the gut, plays a key role in managing blood sugar and appetite. While GLP-1 medications are typically administered as injections, they might soon have some natural contenders!
Researchers from Heliopolis University have shared their insights, indicating that drinks like green tea could be beneficial. Green tea isn’t alone though; ginger, cinnamon, wheat, and berberine (a plant extract) have also been flagged for their potential influence on GLP-1. Although these natural options might sound appealing, it’s important to remember they are not direct substitutes for the medical treatment.
Mir Ali, a respected bariatric surgeon, stresses that while natural ingredients can promote metabolism, their impact is modest. Green tea, for example, can boost fat burning, while berberine might activate other health-boosting enzymes. So yes, your cuppa might give your metabolism a gentle nudge, but it’s no magic bullet if you’re thinking of ditching prescribed treatments entirely!
Previous studies support these findings too. Research published in the Journal of Functional Foods found that consuming catechin-enriched green tea led to noticeable reductions in body weight and visceral fat over a 12-week period.
So, the next time you brew a pot, remember, every sip could be doing a bit more than just keeping you warm on a chilly day. 🍵💚