The objective of this study was to establish a formulation, containing both Hibiscus sabdariffa L. (HS) and Lippia citriodora L. (LC) extracts (Metabolaid®) that had significant capacity to activate the AMPK-enzyme and to reduce triglyceride accumulation in the hypertrophied adipocyte model. Then, we assessed the efficacy of this combination in light-to-moderate-overweight subjects under risk of developing metabolic syndrome.

AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) has been postulated as a molecular target in the amelioration of obesity-related diseases, where most therapeutic approaches have failed. Plant-polyphenols have shown the capacity to ameliorate obesity-induced metabolic disturbances. A combination of polyphenols (LC-HS) derived from Hibiscus sabdariffa L. (HS) and Lippia citriodora L. (LC) (lemon verbena) (Metabolaid®) was assessed for triglyceride accumulation and AMPK activation in the hypertrophied adipocyte model 3T3-L1. A dietary supplement containing 500 mg of LC-HS was evaluated in a double blind, placebo-controlled and randomized trial in 56 overweight subjects for two months. Anthropometric and circulating biochemical parameters were determined.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Participants with a body mass index (BMI) from 24 to 34 kg/m2

Exclusion Criteria:

• total cholesterol lower than 200 mg/dL.
• use of prescription medication for cholesterol or hypertension.
• presence of any obesity-related pathology.
• hormone replacement therapy.
• consumption of antioxidant supplements/drugs.
• alcohol addiction.
• women who were pregnant or lactating.