By Holly Mcguinness
Specially constructed sand could be used as a new therapy to tackle obesity, thanks to fresh research from the University of South Australia (UniSA).
The engineered particles of purified sand prevents fats and carbohydrates from being absorbed into the body, it’s able to soak up digestive enzymes, sugars and fats.
UniSA said it’s the first study of its kind to validate how these particles can interact in the digestive system and stop sugar and fat absorption.
UniSA’s Lead researcher Dr Paul Joyce said this breakthrough could help many of the 1.9 billion people living with obesity.
Despite obesity figures being so significant, Dr Joyce said historically there’s been a lack of effective therapies free from adverse effects to target obesity.
He said other therapies can cause diarrhoea, bloating and abdominal pain which can deter people from receiving treatment.
“This is a massive step to tackle one of the world’s most preventable health conditions,” he said.
“Porous silica has received increasing attention for its anti-obesity potential, with human trials showing it is a safe therapy. However, exactly how it works has eluded researchers – until now.”
The study examined silica samples in an environment that mimicked the gastrointestinal tract while digesting a high-fat, high-carbohydrate meal.
Researchers found that silica particles with widths of 6 to 10 nanometres were ideal to trigger an inhibitory response and cut fat and sugar absorption.
The next stage of the study will be to trial these findings on animal models of obesity, which Dr Joyce says will determine any changes in optimal anti-obesity conditions.
