Desert herb and exercise combo targets belly fat and blood sugar

NCT ID NCT07486557

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether taking a daily Cistanche deserticola supplement along with moderate aerobic exercise (40 minutes, 3 times a week for 18 weeks) could improve body composition, insulin resistance, and inflammation in men aged 50-55 with central obesity. 125 men were randomly assigned to the combo treatment or usual lifestyle advice. Researchers measured changes in waist size, body fat, muscle mass, blood sugar, and inflammatory markers. The goal is to find a safe, effective way to boost metabolic health in this population.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Cistanche deserticola extract

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a natural supplement-plus-exercise approach to help men with central obesity improve metabolic health and reduce inflammation.

What could go wrong

This is a small, completed trial with 125 men, so results may not apply to other groups. The supplement may cause mild digestive discomfort, and benefits may be modest.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Inflammation inflammatory disease Insulin Resistance Obesity, Abdominal

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Beijing Sport University

    Beijing, Beijing Municipality, 100084, China