Gateway Health Alliances Unveils Breakthrough Study on Botanical Extracts Boosting Metabolic Health

California-based Gateway Health Alliances (GHA) has recently released groundbreaking human clinical data demonstrating that two well-known botanical extracts significantly enhance the activity of the “satiety hormone” GLP-1, a crucial player in appetite regulation.

These extracts include Dyglomera, a standardized extract derived from the African spice fruit Dichrostachys glomerata, and CQR-300, which comes from the succulent Cissus quadrangularis. Previous studies have suggested that these botanicals contribute positively to appetite regulation, body composition, and overall metabolic health.

Inhibition of DPP-4: The Mechanism of Action

The latest findings indicate that these extracts may inhibit DPP-4, an enzyme responsible for swiftly degrading GLP-1 in the body. This discovery supports earlier research highlighting the extracts’ effects on other hormones, including leptin, adiponectin, and insulin, all associated with appetite regulation.

Importance of the Findings

Currently, blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy are transforming the weight loss landscape; however, accessibility, affordability, and tolerability remain significant issues for many individuals. Consequently, a range of natural alternatives is emerging, from Akkermansia muciniphila, promoted by Pendulum as a means to enhance GLP-1 production, to Supergut’s blend of resistant starches and prebiotic fibers aimed at “GLP-1 daily support.”

While some startups have focused on developing peptides activating GLP-1 receptors, few ingredients in this space have substantial human clinical data supporting their efficacy. GHA’s president, Shil Kothari, expressed the overwhelming interest in their research, stating, “I’m sure a lot more research will come out soon but I think we’re the only ones currently showing DPP-4 modulating activity in our field.”

Understanding DPP-4 Inhibition

GLP-1 is naturally produced by the body to regulate satiety, but its effects are often brief due to rapid degradation by DPP-4. Drugs like semaglutide simulate GLP-1 but are administered in high doses and modified to resist breakdown by DPP-4, allowing them to exert long-lasting hunger control. On the other hand, drugs such as sitagliptin function by binding to DPP-4, preventing it from degrading GLP-1.

GHA’s botanical extracts are formulated for daily use and reportedly inhibit DPP-4 activity, thereby increasing circulating GLP-1 levels, while also potentially influencing other mechanisms that could enhance GLP-1 production.

Study Overview and Findings

In a recent double-blinded, placebo-controlled study published in Medicina, 248 overweight and obese adults participated in a 16-week trial to evaluate the effectiveness of these botanical extracts. Participants were divided into four groups, each receiving different treatments, including:

• Group 1: Daily capsule containing 400mg of Dyglomera (DGE).
• Group 2: Daily capsule containing 300mg of CQR-300 (CQE).
• Group 3: Daily capsule containing Rybelsus, an oral version of semaglutide.
• Group 4: Daily placebo capsule containing dextrin.

Researchers led by Dr. Julius Enyong Oben analyzed changes in GLP-1 levels, DPP-4 activity, body composition, caloric intake, satiety response, and other metabolic markers.

Key Findings

The results revealed that participants using DGE or CQE experienced significant increases in circulating GLP-1 three hours post-meal, coupled with notable reductions in DPP-4 activity compared to the placebo group. These extracts also led to marked improvements in body weight, body fat, energy intake, and satiety, alongside decreases in fasting glucose levels.

👉 Mean GLP-1 levels post-meal after 16 weeks: DGE (+38.6 pg/mL), CQE (+42.2 pg/mL), semaglutide (+46.8 pg/mL), placebo (+4.7 pg/mL).

👉 DPP-4 activity reduction over 16 weeks: DGE (−15.3%), CQE (−17.8%), semaglutide (−23.5%), placebo (−2.9%).

👉 Body weight changes after 16 weeks: DGE (−4.3 kg), CQE (−4.7 kg), semaglutide (−4.8 kg), placebo group (−0.7 kg).

👉 Daily calorie intake reductions: DGE (−470.2 kcal/day), CQE (−513.8 kcal/day), semaglutide (−550 kcal/day), placebo (−92 kcal/day).

The study’s authors referenced that the extracts may also directly influence adipose tissue browning and possess anti-inflammatory properties, though a direct comparison with semaglutide wasn’t made.

Market Trends and Consumer Preferences

As more consumers seek alternatives to pharmaceutical solutions, GHA has explored various applications for DGE and CQE. Recognizing a shift towards more user-friendly forms of supplementation, Kothari noted the rising demand for innovative delivery methods beyond traditional capsules.

GHA’s extracts are not only patented but also regarded as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS), indicating their suitability for broader applications across dietary products.

Navigating Regulatory Challenges

Brands in the health and wellness sector must navigate the complex landscape of claims surrounding GLP-1 without overstepping regulatory boundaries. Companies are advised to avoid drug-like assertions while promoting the supportive role of their ingredients in natural GLP-1 activity.

With high interest in GLP-1-related products, Kothari suggested that brands can promote “supporting healthy GLP-1 activity” without infringing on regulatory guidelines, making it a prime area for innovation.

Further Reading

To learn more about GLP-1 research and developments in the health supplement industry, check out these resources:

• 🎥 Tufts MD on GLP-1 and the protein obsession: ‘I worry we might be missing the mark’
• 🎥 Food formulation and precision nutrition in the Ozempic era: ‘There’s an entire secondary market that can come from any breakthrough technology’
• Evolv launches peptide that engages GLP-1 receptors as new ‘biomimetics’ category emerges