The use of a Cissus quadrangularis formulation in the management of weight loss and metabolic syndrome

Julius Oben¹ , Dieudonne Kuate¹ , Gabriel Agbor¹^,2 , Claudia Momo¹ and Xavio Talla¹

¹Department of Biochemistry, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon

²Institute of Medical Research & Medicinal Plant studies, Yaounde, Cameroon

author email corresponding author email

Lipids in Health and Disease 2006, 5:24doi:10.1186/1476-511X-5-24


Published:	2 September 2006

Abstract

Aim

Once considered a problem of developed countries, obesity and obesity-related complications (such as metabolic syndrome) are rapidly spreading around the globe. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the use of a Cissus quadrangularis formulation in the management of metabolic syndrome, particularly weight loss and central obesity.

Methods

The study was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled design involving 123 overweight and obese persons (47.2% male; 52.8% female; ages 19–50). The 92 obese (BMI >30) participants were randomized into three groups; placebo, formulation/no diet, and formulation/diet (2100–2200 calories/day). The 31 overweight participants (BMI = 25–29) formed a fourth (no diet) treatment group. All participants received two daily doses of the formulation or placebo and remained on a normal or calorie-controlled diet for 8 weeks.

Results

At the end of the trial period, statistically significant net reductions in weight and central obesity, as well as in fasting blood glucose, total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, triglycerides, and C-reactive protein were observed in participants who received the formulation, regardless of diet.

Conclusion

Cissus quadrangularis formulation appears to be useful in the management of weight loss and metabolic syndrome.