Taking just one pill ‘could help you shed two stone’ – thanks to BALLOON inside that makes you feel full

A PILL containing a gastric balloon has helped obese people lose 2st in 16 weeks.

Last night a UK expert said “potentially millions” could be helped by the simple, single-dose tablet.

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Swallowed with a glass of water, it swells in the ­stomach so people feel full without eating as much.

The balloon pops after four months and passes out painlessly through the body.

Italian researcher Dr ­Roberta Ienca said patients found the pill — called the Elipse Balloon — “incredible”.

She told the European Congress on Obesity in Porto, Portugal: “It appears to be safe and effective.

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“It doesn’t require surgery or anaesthesia. This may make it suitable for a larger population of patients not responding to diet and lifestyle treatment.”

Her team in Rome tested 42 people, whose weight averaged 17st 5lbs. They lost around 2st 6lbs if they also ate healthily over the period.

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Unlike a gastric band, the Elipse pill does not require risky surgery.

And at £2,200 to £3,400, it is about half the price.

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It can be taken under the supervision of a medic, nutritionist or dietician in a process that lasts just 15 minutes.

The pill has a tiny tube attached to it. Once it hits the stomach, the balloon is filled with a pint of water and the tube detached.

It is currently only available privately, but similar treatments are being investigated for use by the NHS.

Experts at the conference said the pill could be used to fight the UK’s obesity crisis. Being too heavy raises risks of type 2 diabetes, heart and liver disease and cancers.

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Professor Jason Halford, from the University of Liverpool, said: “Potentially millions could benefit.

“It is cost-effective. If the studies are there, it should be considered on the NHS.”

Dr Simon Cork, of Imperial College London, added: “A device which doesn’t require surgery is a positive step forward.”