As effective as a 10km run: scientists develop a pill that mimics physical activity

Scientists are working on a pill that can mimic the effects of exercise on the body. The new research is based on the effects that exercise and fasting have on increasing the body's metabolic response levels.

Here's What We Know

The pill uses a molecule called LaKe, which is a chemical compound of lactate and ketones. This molecule helps the body to reach a metabolic state similar to what occurs after running 10 kilometres on an empty stomach.

The pill reduces blood fat levels and increases the production of an appetite-suppressing hormone that cannot be achieved through diet alone. So far, the pill has only been tested on rats, but the results are so promising that human clinical trials may begin soon.

Exactly who would benefit most from the pill - patients who can't exercise or people looking for an easy way to replace exercise - remains an open question.

Source: The Sun