INCREASE ENERGY
Ma Huang- A shrub native to China and Mongolia that contains sympathomimetic compounds, called ephedra alkaloids, and was used to make Ephedrine. One study showed a weight loss of about 2 lb. more per month compared to control group. However, there is limited research, and no long-term data (>6 months) is available. 50 trials showed a 2.2-3.6 fold increase in developing psychiatric, autonomic, cardiovascular, and gastrointestinal symptoms. More specifically, these reports included episodes of hypertension, arrhythmias, myocardial infarction, stroke, and seizures, with 10 deaths and 13 with permanent disability.
Related supplements with similar actions and side-effects: Bitter orange and country mallow
INCREASE CARBOHYDRATE METABOLISM
Chromium- The deficiency of this elements is associated with hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, hypertriglyceridemia, and low levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. It is believed that chromium helps control carbohydrate metabolism, influencing weight. But...cases on healthy people without diabetes does not support this theory and data on those with diabetes are indeterminate. Rhabdomyolysis and renal failure, possibly related to ingestion of more than 1,000 mcg daily of chromium picolinate, have been reported, do to free-radicals from chromium.Ginseng- No control trials currently exist that show it supports weight loss.
DECREASE HUNGER
Guar Gum- This supplement is derived from the Indian cluster bean, Cyamopsis tetragonolobus, but no study supports weight loss.
Glucomannan- Is a dietary fiber from plants. Is well tolerated with some evidence of minor weight loss with dosages of 3-4g/d, but only very few small trials have been performed.
Psyllium- Derived from the seed husk of Plantago psyllium. This shows evidence of improving glucose and lipid levels in diabetes (type II), but did not support weight loss.
INCREASE FAT OXIDATION/REDUCE FAT SYNTHESIS
Hydroxycitric Acid (HCA)- This comes from the Malabar tamarind tropical fruit (Garcinia Cambodia) native to India, with effects on the mitochondria. One 12-week study found a 2 lb. weight loss in woman using 750mg/d, but another study using 1,500mg/d in both sexes showed no benefit.Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA)- Is a group of trans-fatty acids known to reduce fat uptake in obese mice. Current research does not support weight loss, with reports of gastrointestinal side-effects (e.a. diarrhea and nausea).
Green Tea- Contains catechins which support weight loss and fat absorption. But effects are seen after 650mg/d of catechins (5-6 cups of green tea). Supplements are available to achieve this amount.
Licorice- Some reports of reducing body fat mass, but has serious side-effects: Psuedoaldosteronism, hypertension, and hypokalemia.
Pyruvate- This is an organic acid involved in many metabolic pathways. A small 6 week study showed a 2 lb. weight loss, but there remains no large conclusive studies. May cause diarrhea and bloating.
INCREASE WATER ELIMINATION
Dandelion- Appears to have diuretic activity, but weight loss studies are lacking and could cause serious negative side-effects similar to conventional diuretics (dehydration, electrolyte abnormalities, heart arrhythmias).
OTHERS
St. John’s Wort- Is a flowering plant of the genus Hypericum. No support for weight loss exists Spirulina- This blue-green algae contains phenyalanine, but the FDA has declared no effectiveness for weight loss.
Apple Cider Vinegar- Does contain some vitamins and minerals, but has not been studied for weight loss.
Proto-col Slim-Fizz is a distinctive appetite suppressant which contains the groundbreaking fibre Glucomannan, which is an organic soluble fibre derived from high quality fresh Konjac.
ReplyDelete