Anti-obesity and Anti-hyperlipidemic activity of Processed Honey - A Randomised, Open labeled, Controlled Clinical Study

Background: Obesity is a medical condition in which excess body fat is accumulated to the extent that it may have a negative impact on life of an obese patient. Sthoulya (Obesity) is an excessive deposition of Medodhatu (adipose tissue) in the body. Madhu (Honey) processed with Triphala Kashaya (decoction of Three Myrobalans) has been studied for its anti-obesity and anti-hyperlipidemic activity on experimental models. Objectives: To evaluate the anti-obesity and anti-hyperlipidemic activity of processed honey and to compare its efficacy with unprocessed honey and lifestyle (diet and exercise) management on obesity. Materials and Methods: 90 obese individuals were randomly allocated into 3 groups consisting 30 subjects in each group and were managed with lifestyle management (Diet and exercise), unprocessed honey and processed honey respectively for the period of One Mandala Kala (48 days). Body weight, Body Mass Index, Waist Hip Ratio and Lipid profile were considered as assessment parameters. Observations and results: Significant reduction was noticed in unprocessed and processed honey treated groups with respect to all parameters (Body weight, Body Mass Index, Waist circumference, Hip Circumference, lipid profile), whereas Group A, which was only managed with lifestyle modification exhibited better response only with respect to body weight and BMI. Conclusion: Processed honey has better anti-hyperlipidemic and anti-obesity effects, which can be suitably adopted along with lifestyle modification in obese individuals.