Diet & weight management supplements are products people take to support their weight loss goals. There are many different types of supplements, each with its own purported benefit. Here's a breakdown of some of the most common ones:
Fat Burners
- Thermogenic supplements are formulated to increase your body temperature (thermogenesis), which may cause you to burn more calories at rest. Examples include green tea extract and caffeine.
- L-Carnitine supplements are thought to help your body transport fat into cells where it can be burned for energy.
- CLA (conjugated linoleic acid) supplements may help reduce body fat and increase lean muscle mass.
- Forskolin supplements are claimed to increase levels of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), which may help with fat burning.
Appetite Suppressants
- Glucomannan is a type of fiber that can help you feel fuller for longer, reducing calorie intake.
- Garcinia Cambogia extract may suppress appetite by increasing serotonin levels in the brain.
- Hoodia Gordonii is a cactus extract that is said to suppress appetite. However, there is limited evidence to support this claim.
Metabolism Boosters
- Green tea extract contains caffeine and catechins, which may help boost metabolism.
- Raspberry ketones supplements are claimed to increase levels of adiponectin, a hormone involved in metabolism regulation. However, research is inconclusive.
Carb Blockers
- Carb blockers are products that aim to prevent your body from absorbing some of the carbohydrates you eat. They typically contain ingredients like white kidney bean extract.
Protein Powder
- Protein powder is a concentrated source of protein that can help you feel full and support muscle growth. It is a great supplement to add to smoothies or use for baking.
Meal Replacement Shakes
- Meal replacement shakes are drinks that are formulated to provide a balanced mix of protein, carbs, and healthy fats. They can be a convenient way to control calorie intake and lose weight.
Pre-workout Supplements
- Pre-workout supplements are designed to give you energy and improve performance during your workouts. They often contain ingredients like caffeine, creatine, and BCAAs.
Post-workout Supplements
- Post-workout supplements are meant to help with muscle recovery after exercise. They may contain protein, BCAAs, carbohydrates, and electrolytes.
BCAA Supplements
- BCAAs (branched-chain amino acids) are essential amino acids that play a role in muscle growth and repair.
L-Carnitine Supplements
- As mentioned earlier, L-Carnitine supplements are thought to help your body transport fat into cells where it can be burned for energy.
CLA Supplements
- CLA supplements may help reduce body fat and increase lean muscle mass.
Green Tea Extract
- Green tea extract is a popular supplement that may offer a variety of health benefits, including boosting metabolism and aiding in fat burning.
Garcinia Cambogia Supplement
- Garcinia Cambogia extract may suppress appetite by increasing serotonin levels in the brain.
Digestive Enzyme Supplements
- Digestive enzyme supplements can help break down food more efficiently, which may improve nutrient absorption and reduce bloating.
Fiber Supplements
- Fiber supplements can promote feelings of fullness and regularity.
Probiotic Supplements
- Probiotic supplements can improve gut health, which may play a role in weight management.
Vitamin and Mineral Supplements
- A well-formulated multivitamin and mineral supplement can help ensure you’re getting the nutrients you need to support your overall health and weight loss goals.
It's important to consult with your doctor before taking any weight loss supplements. They can help you determine if a particular supplement is safe and appropriate for you. Also, keep in mind that supplements are not a magic bullet for weight loss. They should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise program.
