Weight loss potential of Chia seeds as dietary supplement with Orlistat in an obese rat model

Purpose: To evaluate the biochemical impact of Salvia hispanica L. (chia seeds) as a dietary supplement when used alone or in combination with Orlistat (a weight-loss drug) in a rodent model of obesity. Methods: Forty (40) male Wistar rats were divided into five groups, namely: control, which received standard diet, obesity group which was fed high-fat diet (HFD), chia seeds group which was fed HFD along with chia seed powder, Orlistat group which received HFD and Orlistat, and chia + Orlistat group which was fed HFD + chia seed powder + Orlistat. Body weight and feed intake were monitored over an eight week-trial period. Phytochemical analysis of chia seeds and biochemical analyses of serum lipid profile, liver function indices and inflammatory markers were performed. Results: The occurrence of obesity in rats fed HFD was inferred from increases in body weight, when compared to control group (p < 0.05). The best weight reduction results were observed in chia + Orlistat group, thereby demonstrating synergistic effect when compared with the other treated groups. Chia + Orlistat group manifested significant decreases in body weight, triglycerides, LDL, and inflammatory markers (CRP, TNF-α, and IL-6), with minor increase in HDL. Chemical analysis revealed high levels of roughage (34 ± 2 %), omega-3 fatty acids (18 ± 1.2 %) and antioxidant activity (72 ± 3 %) which were associated with the observed significant positive effects on weight, lipid profiles, and inflammatory response, when compared to HFD group (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The combination of chia seeds with Orlistat may effectively contribute to reducing obesity, inflammation, lipid disorders, and the associated complementary effects on metabolic regulation. This synergy opens prospects for further clinical studies to confirm the findings and elucidate the associated mechanisms.