This study investigated inulin propionate ester supplements. Propionate is a short chain fatty acid produced in digestion of dietary fiber that is a natural and effective appetite suppressor which breaks down quickly, to strengthen the effects it was bound to inulin which a fiber common to garlic, artichoke, chicory, and onion; the resulting bond creates IPE.
Previous research demonstrated the use of IPE increases the rate at which the body burns fats while at rest, and suppresses the urge to consume high calorie foods. This study reveals that IPE can enhance weight loss effects with moderate exercise without making any dietary changes. However, the study did not investigate the effectiveness of a diet designed for weight loss combined with exercise and IPE.
“There’s a great deal of interest at the moment in how our gut microbiota affects our health and well-being. What we’ve been able to show for the first time is that this latter effect continues when exercise is added to regular IPE intake,” says author Douglas Morrison.
20 female participants between the ages of 25-45 with a BMI greater than 25 were involved in the 4 week trial. Participants were divided into 2 groups of ten, one was given placebo and the other was given IPE supplement and they participated in moderate exercise programs while maintaining regular eating habits.
Participant resting fat oxidation levels were measured before and after the trial with gas and blood samples that were collected before breakfast, after breakfast and after lunch. Those who received the placebo were found to have exhibited no change to fat oxidation levels after the trial. Those in the IPE group were found to display a significant increase in fat burning while at rest up to 7 hours after their most recent dose of IPE.
Although the results were promising iIt was noted that additional verification is required in further studies due to this study being limited to being very small, brief, and only involving women:
Study co-author Dalia Malkova says, “While these initial results are promising, we should stress that there are limitations to this study, which was conducted with a small group over just 4 weeks. For example, we can’t yet draw any conclusions about how the increased fat oxidation, combined with exercise, might affect participants’ body composition and body mass.”
Next step is to seek funding for additional IPE trials involving a larger and more diversified population for a longer period of time to verify the original results.
