Weight-loss pill could be possible: study

This potential new pill could be worth the weight.

Researchers at Stanford University found an “anti-hunger” molecule, called Lac-Phe, which is normally only produced after an intense workout.

After giving obese mice this molecule they were discovered to have not only eaten 30% less, but also weighed less in the long term. They also had a lower percentage of body fat and improved blood sugar regulation, according to a study published in the journal Nature.

Dr. Yong Xu, from the Baylor College of Medicine, claims that the research could lead to the creation of “a fat-fighting pill.”

“This could lead to the development of a pill that can directly be used to suppress appetite for certain individuals who cannot easily exercise because of other conditions, aging or bone issues,” he told New Scientist.

“We just filed a patent for hopefully using this knowledge to treat human diseases such as obesity.”

This is the latest attempt to get a weight-loss pill to consumers. What has mostly been on the market are pills and injections meant to trim body fat or drugs, such as a diabetes medication that is being prescribed off-label, to curb hunger.

Scientists are still conducting research to determine what Lac-Phe can do to the brain besides suppressing hunger. Lac-Phe was said to be responsible for almost “25% of the anti-obesity effects of exercise.” It was seen to have no effect when given to lean mice.

Despite only being tested on animals, the researchers are suggesting their results would be the same for humans.

As of 2020, the obesity prevalence for adults was 41.9% in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.