Effect of administration of hydroxytyrosol on weight and fat loss: preliminary data from a randomised double blind prospective study

Hydroxytyrosol (HXT) is a phenolic compound of extra virgin olive oil which is derived from oleuropein and has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In the current study a randomized double blind prospective study was performed examining the effect of HTX administration for 6 months on weight and fat loss in overweight and obese women. Thirty women with a BMI 27-35 kg/m² and stable body weight during the past 3 months, without serious health problems were included and randomly assigned to 3 groups: group A received 15mg of HXT daily, group B received 5mg of HXT daily and group C received placebo for 6 months. HXT or placebo was administered in the form of capsules 3 times daily before meals. All visited a dietitian on a monthly basis for 6 months and all investigators were blinded as to group assignment. Body weight, fat mass and visceral fat were measured at baseline and after 1, 3 and 6 months. The findings suggest that mean weight loss and visceral fat mass loss were statistically significant at months 1, 3 and 6 months for women receiving 15mg of HXT daily. Similarly, mean fat mass loss was statistically significant at 3 and 6 months of the study. No significant differences were found between group B and C. Based on these results, consumption of 15 mg HXT daily was effective in reduction of body weight, fat mass and visceral fat in overweight and obese women. The intervention was