Scientists have found that the acid contained in olives helps you lose weight.

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Elenolic acid, which contains in olives helped lower blood sugar levels and reduce weight in mice with diabetes and obesity, reports the American Society of Nutrition (ASN).

Researchers looked for natural substances that affect the hormones GLP-1 and PYY, which promote feeling of fullness and prevent overeating. The effect of such substances is imitated by the drugs Liruglutide and Ozempic

Elenolic acid was administered orally to laboratory mice. After a week, the obese individuals showed a decrease in weight and blood sugar levels compared to the control group. The effectiveness of the acid was higher than that of metformin, often used to treat type 2 diabetes, and was comparable to liraglutide.

Elenolic acid significantly reduced food intake and promoted weight loss. However, scientists say the concentration of this substance in olive oil or olives is too low to cause such effects. The results of the study may lead to the development of more affordable and safer alternatives to Ozempic.