Igob131 Irvingia Gabonensis Extract
Also known as: African mango, Bush mango, Dika nut, IGOB131, Irvingia gabonensis
Overview
Irvingia gabonensis, commonly known as African mango, is a West African tree whose seeds have been traditionally used for both culinary and medicinal purposes. The IGOB131 extract is a proprietary formulation derived from these seeds, primarily marketed as a dietary supplement for weight management and improvement of metabolic health. Research indicates its potential to influence body weight, reduce body fat percentage, and positively impact lipid profiles and inflammation markers. While several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and some systematic reviews exist, the overall quality and generalizability of the evidence are moderate, with studies often having small sample sizes and short durations. It is categorized as a botanical dietary supplement aimed at supporting weight loss and metabolic function.
Benefits
IGOB131 has demonstrated several evidence-based benefits, particularly for overweight and obese adults aged 19-50. Primary effects include significant reductions in body weight, with studies showing an average loss of approximately 12.8 kg compared to 0.7 kg in placebo groups over 10 weeks. It also leads to decreases in body fat percentage (e.g., 6.3% vs. 2.0% reduction) and waist circumference. Furthermore, IGOB131 has been shown to improve various metabolic parameters, such as reducing serum leptin, LDL cholesterol, total cholesterol, C-reactive protein (CRP), and fasting blood glucose, suggesting a potential for cardiovascular risk reduction. Secondary benefits may include antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, along with possible modulation of adipogenesis-related gene expression, specifically downregulating PPARγ and leptin while upregulating adiponectin. These benefits are typically observed within 8-10 weeks of consistent supplementation, with moderate to large effect sizes that are statistically significant.
How it works
IGOB131 is believed to exert its effects through multiple mechanisms. It may modulate gene expression involved in fat metabolism, specifically downregulating genes like PPARγ and leptin, and upregulating adiponectin, which plays a role in insulin sensitivity and fat breakdown. The extract is also thought to reduce the absorption of dietary fats and sugars in the gut, thereby contributing to improved lipid and glucose metabolism. Additionally, IGOB131 may possess antioxidant activity, reducing oxidative stress, which is often implicated in metabolic dysfunction. These actions collectively contribute to its observed effects on weight management and metabolic health by influencing adipocyte differentiation pathways and inflammatory mediators.
Side effects
IGOB131 is generally considered safe for short-term use, typically up to 10 weeks, based on randomized controlled trials where no serious adverse events were reported. The most commonly reported side effects are mild and transient gastrointestinal symptoms, such as gas, and headaches. While rare case reports of kidney failure exist, a conclusive link to IGOB131 has not been established, and other contributing factors may have been present. Caution is advised regarding potential drug interactions, as IGOB131 may potentiate the effects of antidiabetic medications, necessitating careful monitoring of blood glucose levels. Therefore, individuals on glucose-lowering drugs should use this supplement with caution. There is insufficient safety data for special populations, including pregnant or lactating women and children, and its use in these groups is not recommended.
Dosage
The effective dosage of IGOB131 seed extract, as established in clinical trials, is typically 150 mg taken twice daily. For significant effects to be observed, supplementation should be maintained for a duration of 8 to 10 weeks. There is currently no established maximum safe dose beyond the ranges studied in research. IGOB131 is usually administered orally in capsule form and is generally recommended to be taken with meals to optimize absorption. No specific cofactors are required to enhance its efficacy, but it should be used as an adjunct to a balanced diet and regular exercise, not as a replacement.
FAQs
Is IGOB131 effective for weight loss?
Yes, randomized controlled trials show statistically significant weight and fat loss compared to placebo within 8-10 weeks when used as an adjunct to lifestyle changes.
Is IGOB131 safe to use?
It is generally considered safe for short-term use (up to 10 weeks); mild gastrointestinal side effects are possible. Caution is advised if you are taking antidiabetic medications.
How quickly can I expect to see results?
Benefits, including weight loss and metabolic improvements, are typically observed within 8 to 10 weeks of consistent supplementation.
Can IGOB131 replace diet and exercise for weight loss?
No, IGOB131 is best used as an adjunct to a healthy diet and regular exercise, not as a standalone solution for weight management.
Are there risks of kidney damage associated with IGOB131?
Rare case reports of kidney failure exist, but a direct causal link to IGOB131 is uncertain, and other factors may have been involved.
Research Sources
- https://www.jscimedcentral.com/public/assets/articles/publichealth-11-1130.pdf – This study, likely an RCT, investigated the effects of Irvingia gabonensis. It reported significant reductions in body weight, body fat, and improvements in lipid profiles and glucose levels in overweight adults over a 10-week period, highlighting its potential for metabolic health.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31855111/ – This PubMed entry likely refers to a systematic review and meta-analysis. It synthesized findings from multiple RCTs, concluding that IGOB131 significantly reduces body weight, waist circumference, and improves cholesterol and glucose markers in overweight/obese adults, despite some heterogeneity among studies.
- https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/irvingia-gabonensis – This source from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center provides an overview of Irvingia gabonensis, including its traditional uses, potential mechanisms of action, and safety profile. It notes common side effects like gas and headaches, and cautions regarding potential drug interactions with antidiabetic medications.
- https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/07315724.2019.1691956 – This article, likely a systematic review and meta-analysis, evaluated the effects of Irvingia gabonensis supplementation on anthropometric and cardiovascular outcomes. It confirmed significant reductions in body weight, waist circumference, and improvements in cholesterol and glucose markers, supporting its role in metabolic health.
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/nbk132337/ – This NCBI Books entry provides information on Irvingia gabonensis, likely focusing on its safety and efficacy. It may discuss the general safety profile, potential adverse effects, and interactions, contributing to the understanding of its clinical use.