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Weight Loss Supplements - Do They Really Work?
Although most people understand that the only effective way to
lose weight is though a combination of diet and exercise, the
lure of the quick fix or that little pill that can magically
melt the pounds away, is hard to resist. According to a survey
published in the Journal of the American Medial Association, 7
percent of American adults use non-prescription weight-loss
supplements, with the highest percentage being young women who
are considered to be obese.
It seems that no matter
where you turn, advertisements for weight loss products abound.
Grocery stores, health food stores, drugstores even Wal-Mart
offer shelves full of various herbal and other so-called natural
products that are touted as a sure way to loss those extra
pounds. Sadly, the only thing that most people lose when they
buy these products is their money.
Most doctors agree
that these supplements do little if anything to help people lose
weight. Some warn that certain supplements may be outright
dangerous, while others believe that there may be some benefit
to taking supplements when combined with diet and exercise. So
whats the scoop? Are any of these products beneficial? Heres a
look at several of the most popular weight loss supplements
currently on the market.
Chromium Picolinate
Chromium works in combination with insulin, helping cells to
absorb glucose and ultimately release energy. Pundits claim that
this factor actually assists in metabolizing fat, and turning
the bodys sugar into energy. In reality, there is no evidence
that chromium has any affect at all on weight loss.
Chromium is found naturally in meat, whole grains, fruits,
vegetables and certain oils.
Garcinia
Cambogia
Garcinia Cambogia is derived from a fruit most
commonly found in India and Asia. The rind contains
hydroxycitric acid, which is similar to citric acid in oranges
and grapefruits. The hydroxycitric acid, of HCA for short, is
believed to block the conversion of starches and sugar into
fats. It is also thought to elevate seratonin levels in the
brain, thus suppressing the appetite.
Although there
have been some studies that would indicate the effectiveness of
this supplement, more research is needed before a definitive
conclusion can be made.
Chitosan
Chitosan is
actually derived from chitin, a substance that is found in the
shells of crustaceans such as crabs, shrimp, and lobsters.
Supporters claim that chitosan binds fats in the stomach
preventing their digestion and absorption. While chitosan has
been shown to decrease the absorption of fat, a person would
have to take massive amounts of it for it to be effective in
weight loss.
Researcher do believe that chitosan may
reduce cholesterol levels, however, and are concentrating on
this area of study rather than on the effect of the supplement
on weight loss.
Glucomannan
Glucomannan
comes from the root of the Konnayku plant and contains a great
deal of natural fiber. It is thought to absorb toxins, binding
them before they are actually absorbed into the bloodstream. As
such, it is thought to suppress the appetite, actually expanding
in the stomach.
Researchers have found that this
supplement may in fact aid in weight reduction, especially among
obese patients. This substance is also effective in reducing
constipation due to its high fiber content.
Green
Tea
Green tea seems to be the most popular of all
natural supplements and is being touted as effective in treating
everything from obesity to PMS! All-natural green tea contains
epigallocatechin gallate, a substance that may indeed help
suppress the appetite. But as in with other supplements, a
person would have to consume gallons of tea in order to realize
any significant weight loss.
Green tea is available
both as a drink and in capsule form, and while researchers are
still studying its effectiveness in weight control, some doctors
will recommend that patients substitute green tea for coffee and
soda.
Conclusion
Before embarking on any
weight loss program or taking any supplement, it is essential to
check with your doctor. These supplements can have side effects,
which could be harmful especially when combined with other
medications or supplements
. Again, there is no substitute for a healthy diet and
exercise program, and relying too much on any supplement can
lead to disappointment and frustration.
About the author:
Johann Erickson is a contributing writer for sites such as Triton Nutrition.
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