By Robert Schinetsky

Regular readers of the Advanced Molecular Labs Articles section know our affinity for the Mediterranean diet. It’s rich in fatty fish, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, and olive oil. It’s considered by many to be one of the healthiest diets in the world.

In fact, the Mediterranean Diet garnered the #1 spot, for the seventh consecutive year, as the best diet for diabetes, weight loss, joint support, and overall health, according to the U.S. News & World Report - a widely recognized authority in health rankings.[1]

The popular weight loss diet also beat 30 other diets, including the DASH diet, the vegan diet, the paleo diet, and NOOM (a subscription-based weight loss app).

Another common, yet less discussed ingredient of the Mediterranean diet, is balsamic vinegar. It’s high in acetic acid, antioxidants, particularly the aged varieties, and usually has a higher concentration of polyphenols that may help combat oxidative stress and promote overall health compared to apple cider vinegar (which usually gets all the attention for weight loss and “detoxification”).

Plus, balsamic vinegar has been linked to potential cardiometabolic benefits, such as reducing cholesterol levels, blood glucose and blood pressure.[2,3]

So, while taking a “shot” of ACV has been popular, we find it better to savor the flavor of balsamic vinegar (and enjoy its benefits) by adding it to salads, vegetables, and legumes, which are rich in fiber -- fiber supports weight loss, cardiovascular health, and gut health, too!

As crucial as your diet is for losing weight, supporting immune function, and promoting health and longevity, it’s most effective when used in conjunction with a healthy regimen of exercise (especially resistance training). In fact, scientific research clearly demonstrates that diet + exercise is critical for reducing the risk of gaining weight, obesity, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease.[4,5,6]

What About GLP-1 Agonists?

Glucagon-like Peptide 1 (GLP-1) has been in the headlines consistently for the better part of a year, due in large part to its role in reducing blood sugar, suppressing appetite, and supporting weight loss. GLP-1 agonists are compounds that mimic the effects of the natural GLP-1 hormone (such as Ozempic or Wegovy) help lower blood sugar and facilitate rapid weight loss. However, these medications also come with a list of side effects, including the loss of bone mass and muscle mass.[7,8,9]

The solution to safely and sustainably losing weight, then, is to use a combination of dietary modifications and physical activity (resistance training with some cardiovascular exercise as well). Surprisingly, a randomized control trial found that the Mediterranean diet was superior to a high-fiber vegetarian diet for improving post-prandial plasma glucose homoeostasis and GLP-1.[21] Added to the information we discussed at the outset of this article, it’s pretty clear why the Mediterranean diet continues to rank as the best diet for health, weight loss & diabetes.

What About GLP-1 Supplements?

For added weight loss and cardiometabolic support, you can also consider supplements that support GLP-1 activity in the body, which helps to support healthy blood sugar levels and keep hunger in check.^†

Myricetin

Myricetin is a naturally-occurring flavonoid found in a number of foods, including tomatoes, oranges, berries, and various nuts. In regards to supporting healthy blood sugar levels, research notes that myricetin can enhance insulin sensitivity and encourage glucose uptake in cells. Specifically, the flavonoid may activate signaling pathways associated with glucose metabolism, such as the adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway, which is essential for blood sugar homeostasis.[maintaining glucose homeostasis .[10]^†

Most recently, molecular research published in Cureus found that myricetin can support glucose metabolism, suppress glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK3β) activity, and regulate insulin signaling based on its interactions with the insulin receptor, glucose kinase, and GSK3β.[15]^†

Myricetin also is an impressive GLP-1 activator. It does so by inhibiting DPP-4 (Dipeptidyl peptidase-4), which inhibits the breakdown of GLP-1. This ultimately prolongs the activity of GLP-1.[11]^†

In case you weren’t aware (in addition to GLP-1 agonists), DDP-4 inhibitors are another pharmaceutical avenue by which researchers are looking to tackle the escalating obesity and type 2 diabetes epidemics. DDP-4 inhibitors work by enhancing glucose-dependent insulin secretion and reduce postprandial glucagon and food intake.^†

Essentially, myricetin has been identified as an extremely impressive GLP-1 agonist that also prolongs the peptide’s effects (via DDP-4 inhibition), and it helps attenuate glucagon secretion![12]^† 

Recently published research in Nutrition & Diabetes also finds evidence that myricetin supports cardiovascular health by beneficially modulating the gut microbiome.[13]^†

To top it off, researchers also assert that myricetin supports many other health benefits.[14]^†

Berberine

Berberine is another naturally occurring compound found in plants that has a rich history of use in traditional healing practices for supporting cardiometabolic health as well as the central nervous system. Modern research has identified that

Specific to its cognitive benefits, berberine[16]:^†

• Inhibits Aβ-induced microglia activation
• Inhibiting the accumulation of Aβ plaques by promoting the synthesis of antioxidant Aβ40 and inhibiting the formation of Aβ42
• Decreasing Tau hyperphosphorylation and increasing Tau autophagy clearance 

Yet another avenue by which berberine supports brain health is by enhancing the gut microbiome.[16,17] Recently published research in Phytomedicine documents that berberine “alleviates intestinal inflammation, enhances intestinal permeability, and positively influences the composition and metabolites of the gut microbiota.”[17]^†

Animal studies also support many of the health benefits offered by berberine.[16]^†

These potential benefits are in addition to berberine’s well-known blood sugar support benefits, including[18,19,20]:

• Upregulating the release of GLP-1^†
• Supporting insulin’s activity in the body^†
• Stimulating brown adipose tissue (BAT) thermogenesis
• Increasing glycolysis (which supports ATP production)
• Reducing sugar production in the liver (hepatic gluconeogenesis)^†
• Attenuating the breakdown of carbohydrates in the gut

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is popular cooking and baking spice, commonly added to morning oatmeal and assorted baked treats. It also happens to be a popular supplement for blood glucose support due to its interactions with insulin.^†

 Specifically, insulin affects various signaling proteins and enhances the expression of insulin sensitive glucose transporters which helps support healthy insulin function and sugar metabolism.[22]^†

Other studies note that cinnamon and its extracts positively benefit inflammation, blood sugar levels, and cholesterol/triglycerides.

In fact, a 2023 review in Dose Response noted that chemicals [from cinnamon] help support many of the health benefits in in-vitro animal and human studies.[23]^†

Another meta-analysis of 24 randomized control trials published in Phytotherapy Research noted that:

“Findings from 24 RCTs [randomized controlled trials) revealed that cinnamon supplementation had a statistically significant reduction in fasting blood sugar.”^†

AML Thermo Heat GLP-1

Thermo Heat GLP-1 is the best GLP-1 supplement on the market containing myricetin, berberine and cinnamon. It’s formulated using the best science-backed principles and includes research-verified dosages to support GLP-1 activity and BAT thermogenesis. Also, for sustainable weight loss, as part of a healthy low-calorie diet and exercise program.^†

As a dietary supplement, take one (1) capsule of Thermo Heat GLP-1 twice daily (one with breakfast and one with dinner). For best results, use it as part of a low-calorie or low-carbohydrate diet and exercise program.

Stack AML ThermoHeat Fat Burning Protein for Added Fat Loss Support!^†

AML Thermo Heat GLP-1 is a formidable weight loss support supplement. It can be used standalone with great results.^†

For individuals looking to further enhance their performance and results, we suggest stacking Thermo Heat GLP-1 with AML ThermoHeat Fat-Burning Protein. .

ThermoHeat Fat-Burning Protein is a leucine-enriched, fat-burning, anabolic shake that facilitates fat loss while helping the body preserve lean body mass (remember, prolonged and aggressive calorie deficits can increase the potential for muscle loss).

In addition to MCT Oil, Leucine, Whey Protein, and Paradoxine (which support fat burning and muscle retention), ThermoHeat Fat Burning Anabolic Shake includes allulose -- a non-nutritive sweetener that possesses many physiological properties, including[25,26,27]:^† 

• Attenuation of postprandial (after meal) fat accumulation
• Attenuation of postprandial blood glucose^†
• Anti-aging properties^†
• Increases GLP-1^†

ThermoHeat Fat Burning Protein mixes easily and tastes delicious. It comes in two indulgent flavors (Chocolate Fudge and Vanilla Cream) and can be mixed with water or coffee. Coffee is renowned for its energy-boosting effects as well as its high antioxidant content. Research also shows that the polyphenols in coffee can increase GLP-1![28]

For the ultimate stack, take a serving of Thermo Heat GLP-1 alongside a serving of AML Thermo Heat Fat Burning Anabolic Shake mixed into a cup of coffee!^†

^{† These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.}

^{© Published by Advanced Research Media, Inc. 2024}

^{© Reprinted with permission from Advanced Research Media, Inc.}

References

1. https://www.usnews.com/info/blogs/press-room/articles/2024-01-03/u-s-news-reveals-the-2024-best-diets
2. Johnston CS, Gaas CA. Vinegar: medicinal uses and antiglycemic effect. MedGenMed. 2006 May 30;8(2):61. PMID: 16926800; PMCID: PMC1785201.
3. IIZUKA, M., TANI, M., KISHIMOTO, Y., SAITA, E., TOYOZAKI, M., & KONDO, K. (2010). Inhibitory Effects of Balsamic Vinegar on LDL Oxidation and Lipid Accumulation in THP-1 Macrophages. Journal of Nutritional Science and Vitaminology, 56(6), 421–427. https://doi.org/10.3177/jnsv.56.421
4. Olateju, I. V, Opaleye-Enakhimion, T., Udeogu, J. E., Asuquo, J., Olaleye, K. T., Osa, E., & Oladunjoye, A. F. (2023). A systematic review on the effectiveness of diet and exercise in the management of obesity. Diabetes & Metabolic Syndrome: Clinical Research & Reviews, 17(4), 102759. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.dsx.2023.102759
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22. Kawatra P, Rajagopalan R. Cinnamon: Mystic powers of a minute ingredient. Pharmacognosy Res. 2015 Jun;7(Suppl 1):S1-6. doi: 10.4103/0974-8490.157990. PMID: 26109781; PMCID: PMC4466762.
23. Mohsin SN, Saleem F, Humayun A, Tanweer A, Muddassir A. Prospective Nutraceutical Effects of Cinnamon Derivatives Against Insulin Resistance in Type II Diabetes Mellitus-Evidence From the Literature. Dose Response. 2023 Sep 10;21(3):15593258231200527. doi: 10.1177/15593258231200527. PMID: 37701673; PMCID: PMC10494518.
24. Moridpour AH, Kavyani Z, Khosravi S, Farmani E, Daneshvar M, Musazadeh V, Faghfouri AH. The effect of cinnamon supplementation on glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: An updated systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trial Phytother Res. 2024 Jan;38(1):117-130. doi: 10.1002/ptr.8026. Epub 2023 Oct 11. PMID: 37818728.
25. Yuma T, Tokuda M, Nishimoto N, Yokoi H, Izumori K. Allulose for the attenuation of postprandial blood glucose levels in healthy humans: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One. 2023 Apr 6;18(4):e0281150. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0281150. PMID: 37023000; PMCID: PMC10079081.
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28. Fujii Y, Osaki N, Hase T, Shimotoyodome A. Ingestion of coffee polyphenols increases postprandial release of the active glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1(7-36)) amide in C57BL/6J mice. J Nutr Sci. 2015 Mar 3;4:e9. doi: 10.1017/jns.2014.71. PMID: 26097706; PMCID: PMC4462761.