Forget ozempic, this natural fibre mimics its effects, aiding dramatic weight loss and blood sugar control, say experts

We’ve all heard about Ozempic, the diabetes drug that’s become popular for its strong weight loss effects. But what if a simple, natural ingredient like fibre could do something similar?

That’s what a new study from the University of Arizona and the University of Vienna suggests. Researchers have found that beta-glucan, a special type of fibre found in oats and barley, may help with weight loss and blood sugar control, just like Ozempic, but without any medication.

Fibre’s comeback moment
For a long time, fibre wasn’t the star of the nutrition world. People mostly focused on carbs and protein. But now, fibre is making a comeback, especially as we learn more about how it helps our gut and overall health.

Our gut is home to trillions of tiny bacteria, known as the gut microbiome. These bacteria love fibre. In return, they help us digest food, fight off illness, and even manage weight. In the new 2024 study, scientists gave different types of fibre to mice who were on a high-fat diet. Only one type worked for weight loss: beta-glucan.

What’s so special about beta-glucan?
Beta-glucan is a soluble fibre. That means it dissolves in water and can be easily used by gut bacteria. You can find it in common whole grains like oats and barley.

In the study, mice that ate beta-glucan didn’t eat less food, but they still lost weight and fat. Their metabolism changed. One of the biggest changes was an increase in a helpful gut bacterium called Ileibacterium, which other studies have also linked to weight loss.

Another key change was the production of a chemical called butyrate. This is made when gut bacteria digest fibre. Butyrate helps your body release GLP-1, a hormone that reduces hunger. Ozempic works by mimicking this same hormone. So in simple terms, beta-glucan might help your body make more of this hormone naturally.

More than just weight loss
Butyrate doesn’t just help with weight. It also protects the lining of your gut, supports the liver, and may lower inflammation. Scientists say we still have a lot to learn, but the early signs are exciting.

That said, remember: this research was done in mice. We still need more studies in humans to be sure it works the same way.

Foods that are rich in beta-glucan
Adding beta-glucan to your diet is easy. Here are some foods that naturally contain it:

• Oats
• Barley
• Sorghum
• Rye
• Maize (corn)
• Triticale (a wheat-rye hybrid)
• Wheat and durum wheat
• Rice
• Mushrooms
• Seaweed

These foods slow down digestion, which keeps you full for longer and helps your body manage blood sugar better.

Inputs from TOI