Gateway Health Alliances Discovers Botanical Extracts to Enhance GLP-1 Activity

California-based Gateway Health Alliances (GHA) has released promising new human clinical data indicating that two botanical extracts known for supporting metabolic health can significantly enhance the activity of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), often referred to as the “satiety hormone.”

The Botanicals: Dyglomera and CQR-300

Dyglomera, a standardized extract from the African spice fruit Dichrostachys glomerata, and CQR-300, derived from the succulent Cissus quadrangularis, have previously shown beneficial effects on appetite regulation, body composition, and metabolic health in other studies.

The latest research sheds light on the inhibition of DPP-4 (dipeptidyl peptidase-4), an enzyme that degrades GLP-1, as a critical mechanism through which these botanicals operate. This supports earlier findings that demonstrated their impact on other appetite-regulating hormones, including leptin, adiponectin, and insulin.

Why It Matters

As popular GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy reshape the weight loss landscape, many consumers face challenges regarding access, affordability, and tolerance of these drugs. Consequently, there is a surge of interest in “natural” alternatives.

Among these include products like Akkermansia muciniphila, touted by supplement brand Pendulum for boosting GLP-1 production, and Supergut, which features a balanced mix of resistant starches and prebiotic fibers to support GLP-1 levels. While Pendulum cites research demonstrating GLP-1 enhancement in mice fed a high-fat diet, Supergut’s human study has documented improvements in glycemic control among type 2 diabetics.

DPP-4 Inhibition: A Closer Look

The human body produces GLP-1 and other hormones that naturally regulate satiety. However, their effects are often short-lived due to rapid degradation by the DPP-4 enzyme. Medications like semaglutide mimic GLP-1 but are chemically modified to withstand DPP-4 breakdown, allowing them to exert their effects over a more extended period.

GHA’s standardized botanical extracts aim to inhibit DPP-4 activity, resulting in higher levels of circulating GLP-1. This activity, however, may also interact with other mechanisms that promote GLP-1 production.

Study Design and Findings

A recent double-blind, placebo-controlled study published in Medicina involved 248 overweight and obese adults (BMI: 25-34.9) who were randomly assigned to four groups, each taking a daily capsule before breakfast over 16 weeks.

• Group 1: 400mg Dyglomera
• Group 2: 300mg CQR-300
• Group 3: Rybelsus (semaglutide)
• Group 4: Placebo (dextrin)

The study led by Dr. Julius Enyong Oben from the University of Yaoundé highlighted significant increases in GLP-1 levels and notable reductions in DPP-4 activity among the groups taking Dyglomera and CQR-300.

Key Results

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

DPP-4 activity reduction: DGE: -15.3%, CQE: -17.8%, semaglutide: -23.5%, placebo: -2.9%.

Body weight reduction: DGE: -4.3 kg, CQE: -4.7 kg, semaglutide: -4.8 kg, placebo: -0.7 kg.

Caloric reduction: DGE: -470.2 calories/day, CQE: -513.8 calories/day, semaglutide: -550 calories/day, placebo: -92 kcal/day.

Indeed, these extracts may not only modulate incretin levels but could also influence adipose tissue activity and lipid oxidation.

Addressing Pill Fatigue

With most customers in the dietary supplement sector, GHA is exploring diverse formats for these botanical extracts, given the rising trend of “pill fatigue.” GHA has patented these ingredients and categorized them as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS).

Navigating Legal Considerations

Brands in the functional foods and supplements space must exercise caution when discussing GLP-1, as making drug-like claims can lead to legal complications. Consequently, many brands are adapting their marketing to ensure compliance.

GHA’s Shil Kothari noted the interest surrounding GLP-1 while highlighting the necessity of clarity in communication about such ingredients.

Conclusion

The recent findings from Gateway Health Alliances pave the way for a deeper understanding of natural alternatives for weight management and metabolic health. As further research emerges, these botanical extracts could become key players in the field of appetite regulation and overall wellness strategies.