New research reveals that a 75p bitter hops extract supplement could help users lose six-and-a-half times more fat than placebo pills, potentially offering an alternative to weight-loss jabs.
Weight-loss jabs have become increasingly popular, with over 2.5 million people in the UK currently using them. However, results can be inconsistent, with some individuals experiencing plateaus in their weight loss journey. Now, a groundbreaking study suggests that a natural supplement containing bitter hops extract could be a game-changer in the weight-loss industry.
The supplement, which costs just 75p, has been shown to help users lose six-and-a-half times more fat than those taking placebo pills. This finding has sparked interest among experts and those seeking alternative weight-loss solutions.
The Science Behind Bitter Hops Extract
The bitter compounds found in hops appear to be particularly effective at activating satiety hormones helping users feel fuller for longer. Dr. Madusha Peiris, a neurogastroenterologist at Queen Mary University of London, explains that these compounds stimulate specialized sensors in the gut, triggering the release of hormones that influence hunger and fullness.
The active ingredient in the supplement, called Amarasate, is derived from bitter hop flowers. It works by activating bitter taste receptors in the gut, which in turn trigger the release of hormones such as GLP-1, CCK, and PYY. These hormones play a crucial role in regulating appetite and promoting feelings of fullness.
The Clinical Trial: What the Research Shows
The study, funded by the supplement firm Calocurb and published in the peer-reviewed journal Obesity Pillars followed 128 adults over a 24-week period. Participants were given either a daily supplement containing 500mg of bitter hop extract or a placebo. The results were impressive: those taking the bitter hops extract lost an average of 4.5kg of body fat, 3.9kg more than those on placebo pills.
What sets this supplement apart is that it helps users lose weight without sacrificing muscle mass. This is a significant advantage over weight-loss jabs, which can result in the loss of both fat and muscle. The researchers concluded that the supplement could be a useful additional intervention for those struggling to lose weight through lifestyle changes alone or for those looking to come off weight-loss jabs without regaining weight.
The Potential of Natural Appetite Suppressants
While weight-loss jabs have shown promising results, they come with certain drawbacks, including cost, access, and potential side effects. Natural appetite suppressants, on the other hand, offer a more accessible and potentially safer alternative. However, most natural supplements lack rigorous testing and evidence to support their claims.
Amarasate stands out as an exception, having undergone four peer-reviewed human clinical trials. The most recent trial, known as the C4 trial, followed 150 adults for 24 weeks and measured changes in body weight, fat mass, visceral fat, and muscle mass. The results showed that participants taking Amarasate experienced significant fat loss and preserved muscle mass, making it a promising option for those seeking natural weight-loss solutions.
Dr. Edward Walker, the study’s lead author, highlights the potential of interventions that can address weight loss and prevent weight regain. He suggests that natural supplements like Amarasate could serve as an alternative to weight-loss jabs or as a post-therapy to maintain weight loss.
While the supplement shows promise, experts caution that more research is needed to determine its long-term effectiveness and safety. However, the findings highlight the importance of naturally stimulating the gut’s appetite-control systems through diet and supplements.
