One molecule improves the body’s metabolism, effortlessly. Hope? May it soon be used to produce a supplement for those who cannot do physical activity
Eu.Spa.
October 23 – 10.45am – MILAN
The reason why practices such as intermittent fasting and (regular) physical exercise are beneficial to the body is simple: they generate a favorable metabolic response. But what if this answer could come from a pill? This is what a group of Danish researchers tried to discover, developing a molecule in the laboratory capable of imitating the effects of exercise and fasting. The results? Surprising.
The study, published in the scientific journal Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistrystates that the molecule, whose name is LaKe, has the same effect as running 10 kilometers on an empty stomach. “It is a molecule capable of mimicking the body’s natural metabolic response to intense exercise and fasting. In practice, it puts the body into a metabolic state equivalent to running at high speed on an empty stomach,” explains Thomas Poulsen, from the Department of Chemistry at Aarhus University, is one of the main authors of the study. “When lactate and ketone levels increase in the blood, the production of a hormone that suppresses appetite increases and decreases the level of free fatty acids in the blood. This has a number of health benefits, such as reducing the risk of develop metabolic syndrome,” adds the researcher.
According to the study, it would not be possible to achieve the same effect with diet alonesince lactate and ketones, although produced naturally, cannot be consumed in the quantities needed without unwanted byproducts such as acid and salt. This is where the new molecule that holds lactate and ketones together comes into play, without the harmful “traveling companions”. “In a way, we are not surprised by its effect, because we are combining well-known substances. The novelty is that we have created a molecule that allows us to artificially control the quantities of lactate and ketones in a safe way” comments Poulsen.
Supplements on the horizon
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LaKe has so far been tested on rats, but the first human clinical trials are already underway at Aarhus University Hospital. The researchers are optimistic that their intuition will pave the way for the production of a supplement useful especially for those who cannot follow a rigorous exercise and diet program. “It can be difficult to maintain motivation to run many kilometers at high speed without eating. For people with conditions such as a weak heart or forms of fatigue, a nutritional supplement may be the key to better recovery,” explains the scientist. Not only that: the LaKe molecule also has the potential to alleviate concentration difficulties and could be used in the treatment of serious diseases such as Parkinson’s disease and dementia. These diseases are often characterized by low energy levels in the brain, which inhibit its optimal functioning. “Because lactate can take over the role of glucose in the brain under conditions of stress or trauma, experiments have been conducted to increase lactate levels in people with concussions. Patients who cannot perform strenuous exercise will benefit greatly from a drug capable of increasing these levels” concludes Poulsen.
The Future of Fitness: A Pill That Does All the Heavy Lifting!
So, here we are, folks! Scientists in Denmark have cooked up a little concoction called LaKe that promises to make us fit without breaking a sweat. That’s right! Who needs a gym membership when you can just pop a pill? I mean, why bother with all those burpees when you can just binge-watch *Stranger Things* while your metabolism does the equivalent of a 10 km run? Deliciously cheeky, isn’t it?
The Science of Sloth: Exercise in a Capsule
According to this groundbreaking research published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, this molecule is like the personal trainer you always wanted but never hired—because, let’s face it, who can afford one? You know the kind; they yell at you for not having “enough willpower.” But this magical pill not only mimics the effects of fasting and exercise, it makes all your lazy dreams come true!
Apparently, LaKe is so effective, it might just be the change we’ve all been waiting for. “It’s as if you just ran 10 kilometers on an empty stomach,” says Thomas Poulsen, one of the researchers. And here I was thinking my last marathon was the epic Netflix series! Clearly, I’ve been misinformed about what involves “lengthy runs.”
Lactate and Ketones: The Dynamic Duo
Now, let’s get into some of the science—even if it sounds like a game of buzzword bingo! Lactate and ketones are the life of the metabolism party, but the tricky part is getting them into your system without the nasty side effects—acid and salt being the unwelcome party crashers.
Imagine a world where you can safely control these compounds without gagging on ‘health foods’ that taste like the bottom of a compost bin! We’re talking about the secret sauce that could set us free from the gym. “In a way, this isn’t surprising,” Poulsen states, showing a confidence reserved for the last contestant on a game show. “It’s all about combining well-known substances!” If only my chemistry teacher had told me that—could have saved me years of studying!
But Wait, There’s More!
Now before you throw your gym bag into the recycling, let’s remember: this is still in the testing phase. Yes, LaKe has only been given a spin on some rats so far—who, let’s be honest, don’t get to experience the existential dread of the treadmill. Human trials are just around the corner, but we’re all clutching our protein shakes in hope.
“For those amongst us who lack the joie de vivre required for exercise—like folks with weak hearts or chronic fatigue—this could be a game-changer,” Poulsen says. You see, folks, when your workout routine consists solely of running away from responsibilities, a supplement could be just what the doctor ordered. Is it too good to be true? Absolutely! But where’s the fun without a sprinkle of optimism?
More Than Just a Fitness Fad
But wait, there’s a plot twist! This LaKe molecule isn’t just for the couch potatoes dreaming of abs. It also has potential in treating brain disorders like Parkinson’s and dementia! Who knew a supplement could be the antidote to feeling like a stale bowl of cornflakes? In the world of science fiction, this might just be the breakthrough we need before someone decides to make a film about it. Think about it—a superhero who can save the world because they took the world’s first ‘exercise pill.’
The Verdict?
So, should we start lining up for this miracle pill? Only time will tell if LaKe can live up to its promises. Until then, I guess I’ll just reach for the chocolate. After all, it’s good for the soul, right? In this modern age of miraculous developments, the pill could either be the part of our future where we finally escape sweat—or the source of endless Pinterest fails and gym jokes! Who knows? But as long as it involves the sound of Netflix in the background, I’m in.
Here’s to hoping we can all look as fit as we want to feel, without so much as lifting a finger! Now, pass me the remote, will you?
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