Obesity and being overweight are significant global health issues. The prevalence of obesity has nearly tripled worldwide since 1975, with 39% of adults over 18 being overweight and 13% being obese. Morosil®, an extract of Moro blood oranges, presents a promising natural avenue for supporting weight loss efforts. This extract, marketed by Bionap, has been the subject of several clinical studies, suggesting its potential to enhance the benefits of calorie restriction and exercise.
What is Morosil®?
Morosil® is a standardized extract derived from Moro oranges, a unique variety of blood orange native to Sicily, Italy. These oranges are grown in the volcanic region of Mount Etna and are distinguished by their deep red flesh, which is a result of their rich concentration of anthocyanins, hydroxycinnamic acids, flavone glycosides, and ascorbic acid. The production of anthocyanins in Moro oranges is heavily influenced by the climate conditions of the region, particularly the significant temperature variations between day and night.
How Does Morosil® Work?
The effectiveness of Morosil® is attributed to its unique composition, particularly its high content of anthocyanins. These compounds, responsible for the orange's purple color, have been shown to fight obesity by reducing fat accumulation and body weight through their action on genes linked to obesity.
Adipogenesis, the process by which lipids are stored in the body, is a key target of Morosil®. By regulating lipid metabolism through fatty acid biosynthesis and oxidation, the secondary metabolites present in Morosil® promote increased weight loss and reduced waist and hip circumference. Studies have also demonstrated that Morosil® can inhibit adipocyte differentiation, downregulating adipogenic genes and enzymes while modulating adiponectin secretion and leptin release.
Clinical Evidence Supporting Morosil®
Several clinical studies have investigated the efficacy of Morosil® in promoting weight loss and improving body composition.
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Study 1: Nutrients Journal
A double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study published in Nutrients examined the effects of Morosil® on weight loss in overweight participants. In this study, 98 overweight but otherwise healthy male and female participants received either 400 mg of Morosil® or a placebo for six months, while also following a calorie-restricted diet.
The results of the study indicated that the Morosil® group experienced a significantly greater mean overall weight loss (-4.2%) compared to the placebo group (-2.2%). Furthermore, 36% of participants in the Morosil® group achieved a weight loss of more than 5%, compared to only 22.5% in the placebo group. The supplementation group also showed a significant reduction in BMI, as well as improvements in hip circumference, waist circumference, fat mass, and fat distribution (visceral vs. subcutaneous fat).
The authors of the study concluded that Morosil®, in conjunction with diet and exercise, was safe and well-tolerated and promoted increased weight loss and reduced waist and hip circumference in overweight participants.
Study 2: Medical Treatment and New Medicine
Another human trial, published in Medical Treatment and New Medicine in 2018, evaluated the benefits of Morosil® intake in 60 non-obese adults with a BMI of 27. The study found that 12 weeks of Morosil® supplementation contributed to weight loss, improved BMI, and reduced waist and hip circumference, even in non-obese individuals.
Study 3: Effectiveness of “Moro” Blood Orange Citrus sinensis Osbeck (Rutaceae) Standardized Extract on Weight Loss in Overweight but Otherwise Healthy Men and Women-A Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Study
This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study assessed the efficacy of a blood orange Citrus sinensis standardized extract from “Moro” cultivar, on weight loss in overweight but otherwise healthy individuals. Participants were randomized to receive either Moro blood orange standardized extract or a placebo daily for 6-months. After 6-months, body mass, body mass index (BMI), hip and waist circumferences, fat mass and fat distribution (visceral and subcutaneous fat) were all significantly better in the extract supplemented group compared to the placebo. In addition, all safety markers of liver toxicity were within the normal range throughout the study for both analyzed groups.
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Other Studies
Additional research has shown that Morosil® intake can limit body weight gain, enhance insulin sensitivity, and decrease serum triglycerides and total cholesterol in mice. Studies have also demonstrated Morosil®'s metabolic hepatoprotective effect, suggesting a positive impact on liver health.
Benefits of Morosil®
Based on the available research, Morosil® offers a range of potential benefits for weight management and overall health:
- Reduces weight, BMI, waist circumference, and hip circumference: Clinical studies have consistently demonstrated Morosil®'s ability to promote weight loss and improve body composition.
- Reduces abdominal fat, visceral fat, and subcutaneous fat: Morosil® has been shown to target both visceral and subcutaneous fat, which are associated with increased health risks.
- Supports healthy liver function: Studies suggest that Morosil® may have a positive impact on liver health, potentially protecting against liver steatosis.
- Provides antioxidant action: The anthocyanins in Morosil® offer antioxidant benefits, helping to combat inflammation and protect against cellular damage.
- May improve metabolic health: Research suggests that Morosil® can enhance insulin sensitivity and improve lipid profiles.
Safety and Precautions
The consumption of Morosil® in food supplements is generally considered safe when following recommended dosages. Clinical studies have reported that Morosil® is safe and well-tolerated. However, it is always important to follow the precautions for use to avoid any potential side effects.
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