In a significant development in health and nutrition, scientists in the UK have announced the creation of a low-cost supplement intended to suppress appetite and reduce calorie intake. This innovative product, named Elcella, may provide a safer alternative to traditional weight loss injections that often come with dangerous side effects.
Elcella, which is to be taken twice daily, has been dubbed “natural Ozempic.” This supplement reportedly stimulates the release of appetite-suppressing hormones, including PYY and GLP-1, from cells in the colon.
Drugs like Ozempic and others act similarly by mimicking GLP-1, a hormone that the body naturally produces after eating and that helps individuals feel fuller for longer. According to reports, while these injectables have surged in popularity, many users have faced side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, and, in some cases, more severe complications.
During clinical trials for Elcella, no side effects were reported, and participants saw a reduction in calorie intake by an average of 13% compared to a placebo. “We differ from weight-loss drugs in that Elcella releases your own naturally occurring appetite-reducing hormones rather than replacing them with synthetic hormones,” explained Madusha Peiris, a neurogastroenterology researcher at Queen Mary University of London.
The formulation of Elcella includes diindolylmethane, alpha-linolenic acid, and lauric acid, all components believed to enhance appetite regulation and support overall health. Peiris noted that a special coating on the capsule helps deliver the active nutrients safely to the colon.
Launch plans for the supplement include an e-commerce platform in the UK by early next year, offering an affordable option compared to expensive prescription weight loss drugs.
Rubina Aktar, one of the co-founders of Elcella, stated, “With the soaring popularity of drugs like Ozempic, the market is ripe for disruption. Our product is an important new strategy to tackle the growing global crisis of obesity.”
Approximately 74% of American adults fall into the overweight or obese categories, with 11% diagnosed with diabetes. Elcella’s multi-faceted approach could support both weight management and potential treatment for Type 2 diabetes due to its impact on GLP-1 regulation.
However, industry experts remain cautious, noting the necessity for substantial evidence behind claims made by new dietary supplements. Dr. Hans Schmidt, a bariatric surgeon, expressed skepticism about the efficacy of over-the-counter supplements in significant weight loss, citing a lack of proven results.
As the wellness sector evolves, consumers increasingly seek safe and effective alternatives to maintain their health and manage weight, marking a pivotal moment in dietary supplement innovation.
Comments are closed