| Weight Loss Product |
Claims |
Reality |
| Bitter Orange |
Decrease appetite |
Similar to ephedra, which has been banned
May increase the risk of heart attack
The long term effects are unknown |
| Green Tea |
Boost Metabolism
Decrease appetite |
May cause (GI) gastrointestinal problems (constipation & bloating)
Contain large amounts of caffine
Little evidence to substantiate claim |
| Guar Gum |
Increase feelings of fullness
Block absorption of dietary fat |
Relatively safe
Unlikely to cause weight loss
Can cause GI problems or diarrhea |
| Hoodia |
Decrease appetite |
No conclusive evidence to support claims |
| Country Mallow Heart Leaf |
Decrease appetite
Increase number of calories burned |
Contains ephedrin, which has been proven dangerous
Avoid, since likely unsafe |
| Chromium |
Reduce body fat and increase muscle |
Relatively safe
Not likely to build muscle or aid in weight loss |
| Chitosan |
Blocks absoption of dietary fat |
Relatively safe
Not likely to aid in weight loss
Can cause GI problems
Long term effects are unknown |
| CLA (Conjugated Linoleic Acid) |
Reduce body fat
Decrease appetite
Build muscle |
May decrease fat and increase muscle
Unlikely to cause weight lose
Can cause GI problems |
