Q: I am so confused with the different weight loss supplements available. Could you please give a brief rundown of the main weight loss supplements so I can see the differences between them? One of my resolutions for the New Year is to get into better shape.
A: There are so many different weight loss supplements available, which can be helpful for different reasons. I’ll list the main benefits of some of the most common weight loss supplements below, in the hopes that it helps you to find the one that’s right for you.
Garcinia cambogia
Garcinia cambogia is also known as Citrimax, and its active ingredient, HCA, has been in numerous studies over the years for its benefits to weight loss.
It works in part by inhibiting an enzyme that stores sugars and carbohydrates as fat, blocking the process of fat production.
Garcinia cambogia can help lower both cholesterol and blood pressure.
For the best results for weight loss, it’s recommended to take 500-1000mg of HCA three times a day, 30-60 minutes before a meal. In the studies, higher dosages produced more weight loss. It is an effective weight loss aid, though it’s important to take the recommended dosages.
Raspberry Ketones
Helps the body to break down fat inside cells, which in turn helps the body to burn fat faster.
They are also claimed to increase levels of adiponectin, a hormone that helps to regulate fat metabolism.
Green Coffee Bean Extract
Helps to increase fat burning and metabolism.
It is thought to affect how the body handles blood sugar and metabolism. It also may help with reducing blood pressure.
CLA
Helps the body to burn fat, but doesn’t raise metabolism so it can be taken in the evening without interfering with sleep. Studies say you have to take 3-4 grams a day for optimum effectiveness.
Hoodia
Suppresses appetite and does not raise metabolism.
5-HTP
Helps weight loss by reducing stress eating and also boosts serotonin. Do not take H-HTP in conjunction with SSRI antidepressants.
Glucomannan
A special type of fiber that increases many times its size in the stomach, so makes a person feel more full so that they eat less. Does not raise metabolism, so it can be taken at night.
Whey Protein
A very well absorbed and quickly utilized form of protein sourced from dairy products. Increasing protein consumption can help a person to feel satisfied, longer, often leading to a reduction in calories. Whey protein also helps with muscle repair and synthesis after exercise.
We also have a brand new supplement I thought I would mention- Jarrow’s Slim Whey. It combines 1500mg of garcinia cambogia with 15 grams of whey protein concentrate.