Research done at the University of Roehampton has shown OptiBiotix Health’s SlimBiome ingredient can have a positive impact on the gut microbiome. The study suggests the formulation, comprising glucomannan, oligofructose and chromium, can be used as part of a calorie-controlled diet to reduce body weight, body fat, waist and hip circumference, as well as cravings for sweet and savoury foods in obese female adults.
Dr Adele Costabile, Reader in Nutrition and Life Sciences at the University of Roehampton, said: “There is now growing evidence that suggests excess weight can increase the risk of serious illness, ICU admission and death from COVID-19, as reported by Public Health England and other international bodies.”
The study, with 12 obese and overweight women aged between 18-65 years, explored the ingredient’s effect on weight loss, satiety, mood and gut microbiota. After following a 1,500-calorie restricted diet plan using a range of nutritionally diverse foods, including the company’s consumer GoFigure meal replacement shakes and flapjacks, the results reportedly showed SlimBiome is an effective means of supporting consumer weight loss goals.
Dr Sofia Kolida, R&D Director at OptiBiotix, said: “The results demonstrated that taking SlimBiome for four weeks led to significantly reduced body weight (average 1.9kg), BMI, body fat percentage, waist and hip circumference, and systolic blood pressure. In addition, participants showed a reduction in sweet cravings, a statistically significant reduction in savoury cravings, and statistically significant positive impact on mood and gut microbiome composition.”
The ingredient be used in applications including shakes, snack bars, dairy products and supplements. Using a tri-mechanism approach, the ingredient stimulates the growth of healthy bacteria and helps to regulate the body’s insulin response, further supporting the metabolic breakdown of carbohydrates and fats.
Dr Frederic Narbel, MD of the Prebiotic Division at OptiBiotix, commented: “For our global partners, the results continue to support that SlimBiome offers a scientifically developed and clinically tested approach to help tackle the growing global obesity epidemic. With its versatile nature and demonstrated efficacy backed by strong science, the nutritional blend helps consumers across the world adopt a healthier lifestyle, reducing their potential risk of serious illness amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.”