A new exploratory study by researchers at Sichuan University found that edible microbeads composed of green tea polyphenols, vitamin E, and seaweed induced a roughly 17% weight loss in rats on a high-fat diet by blocking fat absorption in the gut, with minimal side effects and human trials now underway.
Scientists at Sichuan University in China have developed edible microbeads made from green tea polyphenols, vitamin E, and a seaweed-derived coating that, in early studies, helped rats fed a high-fat diet lose approximately 17% of their body weight by binding to fat droplets and blocking their absorption .
During the 30-day experiment, the rats not only lost significant weight but also exhibited reduced fat tissue, improved liver health, and lower blood fat levels compared to controls . Researchers emphasized that the beads caused none of the gastrointestinal side effects commonly associated with FDA-approved fat-blocking drugs like orlistat .
Lead study author Yue Wu stated, “Losing weight can help some people prevent long-term health issues like diabetes and heart disease. Our microbeads work directly in the gut to block fat absorption in a noninvasive and gentle way” . Presented at the ACS Fall 2025 digital meeting, the study offers a promising foundation for novel dietary strategies to combat obesity .
All components of the microbeads are individually FDA-approved, though the combined formulation is not yet cleared; human trials are currently underway in China, with initial results expected within a year