In a recent study, researchers discovered that the world renowned sex drug, Viagra, could also help to prevent you from gaining excess weight. At the University of Bonn, scientists found that the drug helped to convert the white fat cells into beige ones, which means that the spare tyre that plagues so many of us.
Viagra is commonly used to treat erectile dysfunction – also known as Sildenafil, it prevents the degradation of cyclic guanosine mono-phosphate or cGMP, which means the blood supply is healthy enough to support and result in an erection. In a study involving mice, scientists discovered that those given Sildenafil over a long period of time suffered a reduced risk of obesity in comparison to those who didn’t. This is even in addition to a high-fat diet over the same length of time.
The research was carried out in order to determine the potency of the drug, by giving it to rodents for seven days – the results were far more positive than researchers had hoped for. The white fat cells which are found in human ‘problem’ areas were significantly decreased, due to the body being able to convert them into beige cells. The beige cells are able to burn the excess energy from food to create heat – this is then used to melt the fat in the body, which can help those suffering from obesity to combat the condition.
This poses a more positive impact on one’s health than even this great new though – white fat cells which increase in size even further can actually synthesise and release hormones which result in them becoming inflamed. This can often lead to chronic diseases, putting the individual’s health at risk. Further studies need to take place to develop a more conclusive stance on this issue, but scientists are hopeful that this sexual aid could offer plenty of great health benefits besides helping men combat erectile dysfunction.
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