Obesity medications have become increasingly popular in recent years. GLP-1 agonists in particular have garnered increased usage because of their ability to help people lose 10-15 percent of their body weight. These medications help to halt “food noise” or the necessity to constantly think about food, as well as offering other joint, cardiovascular and metabolic benefits.

But GLP-1 agonists also come with side effects, mostly gastrointestinal, including constipation, nausea, and diarrhea. Not to mention that they’re costly, need to be continuously taken to provide any benefit, and often consist of a weekly injection — a downside for those who aren’t fans of needles.

Is there a way to enjoy the benefits of weight and fat loss without taking a medication? Researchers presenting at a recent meeting of the American Chemistry Association were promising just that—boba beads mixed into food and drink could provide the benefit of weight loss.