What do you think of the hundreds of weight loss supplements out
there on the shelves today? Are they worth the money? Will they
actually help you lose weight? How do you know which ones are
going to work for you? Is there any proof that these products
work?
I've taken some time and researched some of the most popular
product to try to find the answers for you. The truth is, most
products won't help you lose anything but money. There are a
few, however, with some research behind them that prove that
they actually work.
What are these supplements that work? It seems that only four
products hold the best promise for those of us who want to slim
down. They are Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA), Hydroxycitic Acid
(HCA), phaseolomine, and possibly 5-HTP.
1. Conjugated Linoleic Acid, CLA, has a number of research
studies behind it. It is a fatty acid that has been found to
reduce cancer risks, body fat and to increase lean muscle
tissue. The Journal of Nutrition reported a Scandanavian
Research team found CLA to increase the lean body mass of humans
and also to decrease the fat mass. Subjects also had lower blodd
fat and cholestrol after taking CLA. CLA does occur naturally in
meat and dairy products, but the levels are pretty low. Also, if
you're following a healthy low-fat diet, you tend to not get as
much meat and dairy, so supplementation may be the answer for
getting a healthy dose of CLA.
2. Hydroxycitic Acid, HCA, is derived from a fruit, Garcinia
cambogia or Malabar tamarind. It seems to work by inhibiting an
enzyme that converts carbohydrates to fat. It also seems to
suppress the appetite. Studies on humans have had mixed results
with one study showing significant weight loss in participants.
Another study using a high fiber diet, showed HCA had no effect
on weight loss. Critics think the high fiber diet prevented
absorbtion of the HCA. So, if you're on a high fiber diet, HCA
may not be for you.
3.Phaseolomine is derived from the white kidney bean. It works
by reducing your body's absorbtion of starchy carbohydrates.
Since you absorb fewer calories, you lose weight. Seems like
this supplement would be great to take if you knew you were
going to indulge. Research has also shown that you burn more fat
while taking phaseolomine. Subjects in one study lost 10% of
their body fat in 30 days. Phaseolomine is typically found in
carb blocker products.
4.5HTP works by increasing the level of Serotonin in the brain
resulting in more stable emotions, better sleep and weight loss.
I take 5HTP myself and have found it to be an excellent appetite
suppresant as well as a mild mood booster. In one study where
women were given either a placebo or 5HTP and a 1200 calorie
diet, those who took the placebo lost 2.28 pounds and those who
took 5HTP lost 10.34 pounds. This was accomplished in 6 weeks.
Are there other supplements that work? There may be others that
will stand the test of time and research, but for now these are
the best non-prescription supplements I've found to enhance your
weight loss efforts. Good luck losing the weight you want to
lose!
Valerie de Armas ©2003 All Rights Reserved
valerie@best-weightloss.com
About the author:
Valerie de Armas is editor of Best Weight Loss Tips, a free
twice monthly neswletter that encourages healthy weight loss.
For weight loss tips, tools and resources, visit
http://www.best-weightloss.com and subscribe.
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