As the modern lifestyle imposes more stress on our daily life, we do not always get enough time to look after ourselves. Sometimes, we just don’t have enough time to get enough physical exercise to keep us healthy and in shape. Lack of exercise leads to weight gain. Despite not being able to commit enough time for exercise, we still want to look the best, and to do that we often look for shortcuts to lose weight faster.
There are numerous diet supplements and special diet plans available in the markets today which claim to help you lose weight faster. But do they really work? And more importantly, do they have any serious side-effects which may make our lives miserable? Just recently, Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned a compound called ephedra, which was used extensively in weight-loss pills. Several studies reported a number of different side effects due to the use of ephedra in weight-loss pills. How do we know what works and what doesn’t?
To answer that question, Amy Aubertin evaluated ten major compounds which are commonly found in weight-loss pills. Let’s briefly look at what these substances are and whether they work or not.
- Chitosan
First up on the list is Chitosan, which is hypothesized to help you lose weight by binding to fat molecules and blocking their absorption in our body. It is an indigestible fibre which is formed from the shells of lobster, shrimp and other shellfish. Recent studies do not support this hypothesis and a number of side-effects, such as constipation and gas have been reported. - Chromium
Also known as chromium (III) picolinate, this substance is promoted to boost lean muscle mass and reduce body fat. Several studies have been carried out to test the effect of chromium, but all of them have been inconclusive. Some studies conclude that 200-400 microgram of chromium picolinate could result in approximately 2.5 pound weight-loss. Some other studies found that body fat decreased and muscle mass increased, without any change in net weight. Some studies found no effect at all. Although some laboratories have raised safety questions, a large number of human studies show that it is safe. - Citrus Aurantium
Also called, bitter orange, this substance is a herbal extract and a natural source of synephrine. Synephrine is a compound which is very similar to ephedra, and recent ban on ephedra has resulted in elevated use of citrus aurantium in weight-loss pills. Studies have not found it to be any useful, and side-effects are similar to those of ephedra, increased blood-pressure being the common one. - Conjugated Linoleic Acid
Recent research suggests that it may have a role in reducing body fat and increasing muscle mass, but since human studies have been short, long-term effects of this compound are unknown. Currently some studies are testing the effects of CLA and chromium picolinate in conjunction. This compound is considered safe as it is naturally found in dairy food and beef. - Garcinia Cambogia
An extract from Garcinia cambogia fruit rind, which contains hydroxycitric acid (HCA). It is thought to supress food intake and prevents weight gain by not storing excess calories as fat. Studies have failed to prove Garcinia cambogia to be an effective weight-loss supplement. Side effects include GI tract and upper respiratory symptoms. - Guarana Caffeine
This ingredient is commonly found in guarana plan seeds, and it is a mild appetite suppressant for a short period of time. It was often used in conjunction with ephedra, which was recently banned. Side effects include restlessness, insomnia and panic attacks. - Hydroxymethylbutyrate
A product that is naturally formed by the breakdown of leucine (amino acid). It is used by body builders a lot; as it is supposed to decrease body fat and increase muscle mass. Some studies found this to be true, but in order to find its true effect, studies involving overweight people are required. - Plantago Psyllium
A water-soluble fibre which is taken before meal. It makes you feel full so you eat less. Studies have proved it to be a great constipation aid, but not in reducing weight. - Pyruvate
Produced naturally in the body as a result of carbohydrates and proteins breakdown, and is thought to stimulate metabolism and reduce fat. Some studies did show weight-loss due to the use of this supplement, but the subjects were given high dose of pyruvate, high physical exercise and cut back on calories. - Yerba mate
High in caffeine. Studies have reported that it slows stomach emptying and helping weight loss. Studies were short and long-term affect is unknown.
Common weight loss products that are available in the markets these days contain many of the compounds listed above. They have the ability to provide less benefit but cause much more serious damage in the future. It is always best to try to loose weight normally before trying any quick weight loss products. If you would like to loose weight and maintain it naturally, please visit this page.
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Source
Aubertin, Amy. “Evaluating 10 ingredients in weight-loss pills: no clear winners.” Environmental Nutrition June 2004