Israeli Startup Develops a Pill to Boost the Metabolism

Lembas’ GlP-1 Edge works by stimulating a hormone that signals to the body that it is satiated and speeds up the metabolism.

By Shula Rosen

As many pursue restrictive diets or weight loss drugs to shed pounds, Israeli startup Lembas provides a convenient, food-based way to boost metabolism in a simple pill form.

Lembas’ GLP-1 Edge works naturally and uses food ingredients to stimulate the secretion of hormones in the body that regulate appetite and metabolism.

The way GLP-1 Edge and several other weight loss treatments work is by stimulating GLP-1, a hormone that signals to the body that it is satiated and initiates the digestive process. When a person consumes foods that are high in fiber or protein, the body naturally secretes GLP-1.

Although this is one reason dieticians recommend a diet rich in protein and fiber to maintain a healthy body mass, many seek medications, such as Ozempic and Mounjaro, which have much higher and more concentrated levels of GLP-1 than those released in the body after eating certain foods.

However, many shy away from using treatments such as Ozempic, which involve injections over a long period, either because they dislike needles or wish to have more control over their weight loss schedule.

Lembas founders Shay Hilel (CEO), Dr. Zohar Barbash (CTO), Prof. Maayan Gal (CSO), and Dr. Daniel Bar aimed to develop a new method for stimulating GLP-1 without invasive needles, in a convenient and natural form found in everyday food.

Although injectable treatments like Ozempic can deliver 15% weight loss, Lembas has created its product for individuals who wish to discontinue using injectable treatments without gaining weight. GLP-1 Edge will help these individuals maintain their weight loss success by taking a food-based, natural pill that stimulates their metabolism.

The company has raised $3.6 million in a pre-seed financing round led by FLORA Ventures and anticipates that GLP-1 Edge will be on the market by 2027.