If you go into any health food store or look online, you’ll find hundreds of weight loss supplements, many of them claiming to have remarkable benefits. Although it’s tempting to try new supplements, possible side effects and safety concerns aren’t always listed. While some of them may be promising, others can do more harm than good.
Here’s the scoop on 15 popular weight loss supplements.
1. Fucoxanthin
Fucoxanthin is an antioxidant found naturally in edible brown seaweed such as wakame, the seaweed used in miso soup. Although there haven’t been any human studies, preliminary research in animals suggests it may
target abdominal fat. Fucoxanthin also doesn’t appear to be a stimulant like ephedra, bitter orange, or caffeine. Fucoxanthin: What You Need to Know.
2. Green Tea
There is some research indicating that substances in green tea, such as theanine, may raise your metabolism and suppress your appetite.
Although drinking green tea may not help you with weight loss on its own, there is some evidence that drinking green tea may support your weight loss efforts. Green Tea for Weight Loss and Theanine
3. Extract of White Beans
White bean extract, also known as Phaseolus vulgaris, is a natural substance that is commonly sold in supplement form. Typically marketed as a “starch blocker,” proponents of white bean extract claim that it can prevent the breakdown of carbohydrates into glucose (sugar).
4. CLA
Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) is a fatty acid found naturally in dairy and in beef and is also available in supplement form. Proponents claim that CLA can decrease fat while building muscle. CLA for Weight Loss
5. Glucomannan
Glucomannan is a substance that is extracted from the root of the konjac (a plant native to Asia). Rich in soluble fibre which attracts water and turns to gel during digestion, proponents claim that glucomannan suppresses appetite and promotes the feeling of satiety.
6. Chitosan
Chitosan is a dietary supplement made from chitin, which is found in the in shells of crustaceans, such as crabs, shrimp, and lobster. Although there is currently little scientific research regarding the use of of
chitosan for weight loss, proponents claim that it can fight fat absorption. Chitosan and Weight Loss.
7. D Vitamin
Some research suggests that vitamin D supplements may help people who are low on vitamin D lose weight.
8. hCG
hCG is a human hormone produced by the placenta during pregnancy. It is said to promote weight loss by suppressing appetite, increasing metabolism, and reducing body fat. HCG is the central ingredient in the HCG diet. It is administered by injection but is also available in dietary supplement form. The hCG Diet:
9. Resveratrol
Resveratrol is an antioxidant found in the skin of red grapes. It is said to speed up metabolism and prevent the growth of fat cells. Resveratrol for Weight Loss
10. Capsaicin
Capsaicin, a natural compound in chilli peppers, is said to promote weight loss. Proponents claim that the compound can boost metabolism, decrease appetite, and reduce fat. Some preliminary studies suggest that this spicy chemical may be of some benefit to those trying to slim down.
11. Chia
Chia is a plant that is sold in seed, oil, and capsule form. Chia contains omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants, and is often marketed as a weight loss aid. Chia for Weight Loss
12. Hoodia
Hoodia is one of the better-known herbal supplements used as an appetite suppressant, but there haven’t been any clinical trials involving humans yet. If you search online for hoodia, you’ll find hundreds of companies selling hoodia and cautioning you not to buy the competitor’s useless hoodia pills. Counterfeit or fake hoodia is a problem – it’s been estimated that more than half of all hoodia products aren’t actually the real thing.
13. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has been marketed as a natural appetite suppressant. There’s even an apple cider vinegar diet, which involves taking one to three teaspoons of apple cider vinegar or apple cider vinegar pills before each meal. While there’s no harm in using some vinegar in cooking (a preliminary study suggests it may promote satiety), there have been reports of adverse effects with the use of apple cider vinegar tablets. Apple Cider Vinegar for Weight Loss
14. Copra Oil
Coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides, which are said to increase metabolism and promote weight loss. Coconut Oil:
15. Orange Bitter
After ephedra was taken off the market in 2004, bitter orange (Citrus aurantium), a herb similar to ephedra, has been marketed as a weight loss aid.
Proponents claim that bitter orange can stimulate the fat-burning process. Bitter orange may raise blood pressure, increase heart rate, or cause abnormal heart rhythms. Not Recommended Bitter Orange: What You Need to Know.
