Obesity is a major risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes, with one in every eight people worldwide living with obesity as of 2022. Researchers from Virginia Tech have discovered a natural compound in olives and olive oil that could potentially improve blood sugar control and promote weight loss, offering hope for developing natural products to manage obesity and type 2 diabetes. Dongmin Liu, a professor at Virginia Tech, explains that current lifestyle modifications and treatments are often ineffective or carry risks, emphasizing the need for new, more affordable treatments using natural products.
The study, presented at NUTRITION 2024, used a mouse model to investigate the effects of elenolic acid, a compound found in olives, on blood sugar control and weight loss. Researchers found that elenolic acid stimulated the release of metabolic hormones in the gut that help regulate eating and blood sugar levels. Obese mice with diabetes who received oral elenolic acid saw significant improvements in metabolic health, including reduced obesity and improved insulin sensitivity. These findings suggest that elenolic acid may hold promise as a natural treatment for obesity, insulin resistance, and diabetes in humans.
Mir Ali, MD, a bariatric surgeon, finds the study’s findings intriguing and emphasizes the importance of translating these results to human studies to develop new treatment options. Monique Richard, a registered dietitian nutritionist, notes that the benefits of olives align with those of a Mediterranean diet and emphasizes the unique nutrient profile of olives due to their fatty acid components. Richard provides tips on incorporating olives into the diet, such as using them in salads, pizzas, or snacks, and highlights the importance of choosing quality olive oil for cooking and dressings.
While consuming olives can provide some elenolic acid, the concentration may not be sufficient for therapeutic use as seen in the study. Researchers are working to further explore the mechanisms of elenolic acid and ensure its safety for potential human clinical trials in the future. The study’s results offer a new perspective on the potential benefits of natural compounds in managing obesity and type 2 diabetes, providing hope for developing more effective and affordable treatments for these health conditions. Continued research and clinical trials will be crucial in uncovering the full potential of elenolic acid as a treatment option for individuals with obesity and diabetes.
