4 over the counter Weight Loss Supplements
In order to lose weight, many patients want to know what is the fastest way to lose weight or the name of weight loss supplements. There are many options people try . I am not supporting any of these supplements myself, as we believe in weight loss programs that can provide weight loss that works and one on one help, but I do think it is important for the patients to be informed.
They tend to work via one or more of these mechanisms:
Reduce appetite, making you feel more full so that you eat fewer calories.
Reduce absorption of nutrients like fat, making you take in fewer calories.
Increase fat burning, making you burn more calories.
Here is a list of popular weight loss pills and supplements and a few of their effects, pros and cons.
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Hydroxycut
Hydroxycut has been around for more than a decade.
How it works: It contains several ingredients that are claimed to help with weight loss, including caffeine and a few plant extracts.
Effectiveness: Has got a few low quality studies showing weight loss.
Side effects: If you are caffeine sensitive there are chances you may experience anxiety, jitteriness, tremors, nausea, diarrhea and irritability.
Bottom Line: May help due to the presence of caffeine.
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Garcinia Cambogia Extract
This fruit was featured by Dr. Oz back in 2012. The skin of the fruit contains hydroxycitric acid (HCA). This is the active ingredient in garcinia cambogia extract.
How it works: Animal studies show that it can inhibit a fat-producing enzyme in the body and increase levels of serotonin, potentially helping to reduce cravings.
Effectiveness: One study showed no difference in weight or body fat percentage between groups.
Side effects: No serious side effects, but some reports of mild digestive problems.
Bottom Line: Unlikely to help you!
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Caffeine
If you are going to use a supplement with caffeine, you may decide using regular caffeine. Caffeine is the most commonly consumed psychoactive substance in the world
It is found naturally in coffee, black and green tea and dark chocolate, and added to many processed foods and beverages ( Like Starbucks Refresher drinks, Red Bull, etc ).
Caffeine is a well known metabolism booster, and is often added to commercial weight loss supplements.
How it works: Short-term studies have shown that caffeine can boost metabolism by 3-11%, and increase fat burning by up to 29%
Effectiveness: There are also some studies showing that caffeine can cause modest weight loss in humans, however tolerance will develop soon and you will stop losing weight.
Side effects: Caffeine may cause anxiety, insomnia, irritability, nausea, diarrhea and other symptoms. Caffeine is also addictive and can reduce the quality of your sleep.
There really is no need to take a supplement or a pill with caffeine in it. The best sources are quality coffee and green tea, which also have antioxidants and other health benefits.
Bottom Line: Caffeine can boost metabolism and enhance fat burning for a short period of time. Has got significant side effects at higher doses.
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Glucomannan
Glucomannan is a type of fiber found in the roots of the elephant yam, also called konjac.
How it works: Glucomannan absorbs water and becomes gel-like. Helps promote a feeling of fullness, helping you eat less food.
Effectiveness: Three human studies showed that glucomannan, combined with a healthy diet, can help people lose 8-10 pounds (3.6-4.5 kg) of weight in 5 weeks. Also glucomannan is a fiber that can feed the friendly bacteria in the intestine. It can also lower blood sugar, blood cholesterol and triglycerides, and is very effective against constipation
Side effects: It can cause bloating, flatulence and soft stools, and can interfere with some oral medications if taken at the same time.
For Glucomannan to work take it a half an hour before meals, with a glass of water.
Bottom Line: Can help! Studies consistently show that the fiber glucomannan, when combined with a healthy diet, can help people lose weight. It also leads to improvements in various health markers.
