thylakoids

Thylakoids are membrane-bound compartments derived from the chloroplasts of green plants, most notably spinach. They are being investigated as a dietary supplement for weight management. [1, 2] The proposed mechanism of action involves the inhibition of pancreatic lipase and its cofactor, colipase. [12, 13] By retarding fat digestion, thylakoids prolong the presence of lipids in the intestine, which in turn promotes the release of satiety hormones like cholecystokinin (CCK) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), and suppresses the hunger hormone ghrelin. [1, 11] This leads to increased feelings of fullness and reduced food cravings, particularly for palatable foods. [11] Clinical studies have demonstrated that supplementation with a thylakoid-rich spinach extract can lead to greater weight loss, reduced body fat, and improved insulin sensitivity in overweight and obese individuals, including those with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), when combined with a calorie-restricted diet. [2] A specific patented extract is marketed under the brand name Appethyl, developed initially at Lund University and later by companies including Greenleaf Medical and Mimer Medical. [4, 7]

Brand names

Appethyl

Other names

spinach extractgreen-plant membranesthylakoid-rich spinach extract