A particular hot beverage costing just 4p could replicate the effects of weight loss medication, according to research. A scientific review has identified several natural compounds present in our diets that might mirror the effects of GLP-1 injections.

GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) is a hormone manufactured in the gut that assists in regulating blood sugar and appetite. Treatments known as GLP-1 inhibitors have gained popularity in recent years due to their effectiveness in managing blood sugar levels among diabetic patients and facilitating weight loss.

Administered as injections, some of these medications can be obtained through the NHS for eligible patients. However, according to the latest findings,certain foods and beverages could yield similar effects to GLP-1 inhibitors.

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In 2025, researchers from Heliopolis University in Cairo published a review of the available evidence in the journal Toxicology Reports, demonstrating how GLP-1 might be influenced by natural compounds from diet. The team highlighted that one of the motivations behind seeking natural alternatives to GLP-1 injections is the cost and accessibility of the medications.

This approach could also help avoid any potential side effects of the jabs, which can include vomiting, diarrhoea, and cramps. Researchers stated in the study: "It's about increasing treatment options and personalising it to each patient's preferences and needs."

According to Medical News Today, green tea was identified amongst the foods and drinks that could influence GLP-1.

Other items included:

• Ginger


• Cinnamon


• Wheat


• Berberine (a compound found in plants)

However, bariatric surgeon and medical director of Memorial Care Surgical Weight Loss Centre, Mir Ali, who was not part of the study, cautioned that these ingredients shouldn't be viewed as "alternatives" to weight loss injections. He told Medical News Today: "Natural ingredients may help boost metabolism.

"However, it is a mild effect. These [compounds] should not be considered an alternative to the GLP-1 medications."

He went on to explain that these natural ingredients function in various ways, "either by stimulating the central nervous system to boost metabolism (caffeine), promote fat burning (green tea extract, capsaicin), or activating other enzymes (berberine)".

Earlier studies have connected green tea consumption with weight reduction. One paper, published in the Journal of Functional Foods, recommended consuming catechin-enriched green tea for precisely this purpose.

The study authors stated: "Average visceral fat area, body weight, and body fat were reduced significantly by catechin-enriched green tea treatment but these effects were not seen in the control group with per-protocol sets analysis.

"The decrease at week 12 in the visceral fat area in the catechin group was greater than that in the control group. Thus, consumption of the catechin-enriched green tea beverage for 12 weeks induced visceral fat loss in Chinese adults with a high proportion of abdominal visceral fat."

This research built upon earlier studies that highlighted green tea's weight management properties. The researchers noted: "In recent years, there have been many studies on the beneficial effects of green tea in treating obesity and improving glucose and lipid metabolism".

At the time of reporting, Tesco was selling a pack of 20 green tea bags for 80p, working out at just 4p per cup.