While trying to shed weight, it is always tempting to seek help in almost everywhere possible. And while thinking about supplements, one needs to know that many researches have shown that each has its benefits to offer. There are even some supplements that may have risks, so a doctor should be consulted before trying any of them.
At the same time, the FDA has marked some weight loss supplements as risky and they are not much safe for consumption. This is because some of them contain certain ingredients that are not indicated on their labels.
- Chitosan: Chitosan is a particular sugar that can be found on the thick external layers of crabs, shrimps and lobsters. Few enthusiasts claim that it blocks cholesterol and fats from being absorbed in the body. According to Natura Medicines, an independent group that conducted the research of supplements said that there is minimal evidence to prove it.
Although Chitosan has no side effects, few people complain about constipation or stomach upset. Those allergic to shellfish are advised not to take chitosan since it is made from shellfish.
- Hydroxycitrate: Also known as Hydroxycitric Acid (HCA), it is a salt collected from Garcinia Cambodia and the Southeast Asian plants brindle berry. Being an ancient Indian remedy, HCA is used to treat stomach and joint problems. It can be found in supplement stores and drug stores as HCA, Garcinia, and Brindle Berry. It is known as a primary ingredient in various diet products, like Bio-Max 3000, Garcinia Trim-Pulse, PhytriMax, Citrin, and Citrilite. Research has shown that HCA is effective in increasing metabolism, reducing fat absorption, lowering cholesterol and inhibiting appetite.
- Chromium Picolinate: Chromium is known as a mineral which enhances insulin, the hormone essential for converting food into energy. It also stores proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. From research, it is claimed that supplements with chromium can do the following:
- Cut body fat
- Burn more calories
- Lower appetite
- Increase muscle strength
There are few side effects that chromium supplements are capable of causing, like:
- Irritability
- Insomnia
- Headache
- Problems in thinking
Some reports also claim that some people suffered from liver and kidney damage due to this. Therefore, people having problems in such organs should avoid it.
- Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA): CLA is a very popular supplement with chemicals that are called linoleic acid and can be found in fatty acids. Some have claimed that it helps curb body fat and stay full. It is suggested that 1.8 to 6.9 grams of it may increase muscle strength and curb body fat. However, some researchers claim it is not capable of helping in burning fat, thus having mixed analogies.
It is acclaimed that using it on a long-term basis by obese people may cause an increase in insulin resistance which could cause type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes could result in worsening of cholesterol in the bloodstream which could lead to heart problems.
Some possible side effects include:
- Loose stools
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Stomach upset.