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Writer's pictureValerie Taylor

Best Supplements for Weight Loss Support: A Simple Guide

Updated: Nov 12

Losing weight has never been easy for most of us even with a balanced and healthy diet, and regular exercise. The good news is, there are supplements that can help you support your current diet and exercise regimen. Here we will keep things easy and talk about the best supplements for weight loss support.


1. Berberine


Berberine is a chemical found in a lot of plants. It has recently gotten a lot of attention because of its possible weight loss benefits. How?

  • It can help regulate blood sugar levels

  • It can help sensitivity to the hormone insulin

  • It can enhance your metabolism


According to studies, berberine may help people lose weight. But more than that, it can also help in their digestion of fats. In fact, it works about the same as the drug metformin for the treatment of diabetes.




2. Green Tea Extract


Green tea extract contains a lot of catechins, especially the epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which can help you lose weight.


  • It boosts metabolism

  • It promotes fat burning, particularly during exercise

  • It offers a mild energy boost


The green tea extract may assist in burning more calories for people trying to lose weight. It continues even when you’re basically not doing anything because of the presence of both caffeine and catechins in green tea extract.



3. Glucomannan


Glucomannan is a type of soluble fiber, which comes from the konjac root.


  • It helps you feel full so you don’t eat a lot

  • It helps in reducing calorie absorption after a meal

  • It also assists in improving gut health, which is essential for people who want to lose weight


This supplement works by absorbing water and expanding in your stomach, which can help you feel full and eat less.



4. Caffeine


Caffeine is not considered as a supplement but it can be a very powerful support to your efforts in losing weight.


  • It helps boost metabolism

  • It improves burning of fats

  • It provides energy when you are actively exercising


Caffeine assists in the burning of fats by enhancing the body’s ability to break down fatty acids.


5. Protein Powder


Protein is a good adjunct when you try to lose weight. And so, protein supplements can help make sure that you are getting enough of this biomolecule during your regimen. What does it do?


  • It allows the body to think that it is full so you consume less

  • It helps maintain muscle mass and tone even when losing a few pounds

  • It enhances your metabolism because of its thermic effect

Some rich sources for protein include casein, whey, and plant-based proteins like hemp or pea. These may all be effective in supporting your weight loss regimen.



6. Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA)


CLA is naturally found in dairy products or meat—and it is a type of fatty acid that may support your weight loss regimen through:


  • Reducing body fat

  • Maintaining your lean body mass

  • Improving sensitivity to insulin


According to a study, CLA was found to promote body fat loss. However, results are often mixed with no consensus, which means more studies need to be done for it to be considered conclusive. Nonetheless, preliminary reports showed that it is best for weight loss support.



7. Garcinia Cambogia


Garcinia Cambogia is one of the tropical fruits that has been studied. It may be able to support weight loss through its content—the hydroxycitric acid (HCA). It may stop fat production, suppress your appetite, and decrease belly fat in the process. But even when its action has been established, more research still has to be done to sufficiently support the claim.




A Word of Caution!


Just a quick reminder though, these supplements may offer the support you need in your weight loss efforts but you also need to consider the following:


  • They don’t work like magic—it means taking any of these supplement must be combined with balanced diet and regular exercise

  • Consult your primary care physician before you start taking any supplement especially if you are taking prescription medication

  • Choose high-quality supplements, particularly those made by reputable brands or companies

  • They don’t work exactly the same way for everyone—sustainable weight loss may take some time


Key Takeaways


  • Supplements merely serves as adjunct to your weight loss regimen—they are not stand-alone and definitely not a substitute to healthy diet and exercise

  • Some options include berberine, green tea extract, glucomannan, caffeine, protein powder, CLA, and garcinia cambogia

  • The effects will vary from person to person— what works for other people may not work for you

  • Slow progress with weight loss is always better than rapid weight loss

  • Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any weight loss supplement regimen


Disclaimer: The content provided here is solely for educational purposes and should not be considered a replacement for medical advice. Prior to utilizing any health treatments, including natural remedies, it is advisable to consult with your doctor. Additionally, inform your doctor if you have a significant medical condition or are currently taking any medications.

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