8 Supplements For The Treatment Of Obesity
Currently, the overweight and obesity are two important global problems, along with related complications such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. For this reason, in this article, we show you which are the best natural supplements for the treatment of obesity.
obesity treatment
Before delving fully into this topic, let’s find out what exactly being overweight is. An abnormal accumulation of fat in the body is considered overweight. When this accumulation is excessive and harmful to health, we speak of obesity.
According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 1.9 billion people over 18 were overweight in 2016. Of these, more than 650 million were obese.
However, there are natural supplements that help to treat obesity, right? First of all, we must establish that natural supplements include vitamins, minerals and herbs that are usually taken in capsule form. It is also possible to consume them in powder or in the form of drinks.
Before commenting which are the most used natural supplements to lose weight, it is necessary to clarify that the fact that something is considered “natural” does not mean that it can be consumed indiscriminately and without medical control. On the contrary, before starting any supplement intake, you should consult your doctor!
Common Ingredients of Natural Supplements
Next, we’ll discuss the main ingredients used in natural supplements that are supposed to help treat obesity. Check out!
1. Chitosan
This product is a fish derivative that is commonly used to treat obesity. Specifically, it is sugar from the outer layers of shrimp, crab, and lobster.
It is supposed to serve to prevent the body’s absorption of cholesterol and fats. However, there are no conclusive studies on its effectiveness in reducing body fat.
2. Glucomannan
This substance is obtained from the Konjac plant and promises to promote weight loss due to its natural fiber content. However, a Journal of Obesity study concluded that this supplement did not help achieve weight loss . Check with your trusted physician before consuming it.
3. Green tea extract
This is a recommended herbal supplement for weight loss that can be found in almost any pharmacy. Different studies have endorsed its effectiveness, although it has varied from case to case.
4. Raspberry Ketone
Raspberry is present in many pills as it is supposed to help burn fat. However, there is no scientific evidence (at least in humans) to support this claim.
5. Bitter orange
Bitter orange is one of the most common ingredients in natural weight loss supplements. It is supposed to help burn more calories, but there is also no research with conclusive data about its effectiveness.
In fact, some surveys of bitter orange users indicate that it can cause side effects such as increased anxiety, heart rate, and blood pressure, as well as chest pain.
6. Chromium Picolinate
Chromium is a mineral that works by improving the insulin response to convert food into energy. It is generally recommended for its supposed fat-burning effect and for favoring the increase in muscle mass, while reducing appetite. It is noteworthy that different studies have failed to prove these benefits.
7. Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA)
Experts suspect that linoleic acid may help reduce body fat and decrease appetite. Data from studies carried out in this regard are controversial. While some admit a weight loss thanks to the use of this substance, others maintain that this reduction is practically non-existent.
8. Caffeine
The last component of the natural supplements we’re going to talk about today will be caffeine. Some studies have shown that caffeine can speed up metabolism, increasing fat burning by up to 29%. However, other research has found minimal weight loss when using caffeine as a treatment for obesity.
Note: Unlike medicines, natural supplements are not subject to strict controls. Although the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates them, they are considered “food”. Therefore, the companies that produce them do not need to prove their safety or effectiveness before putting them up for sale.
Do natural supplements help to treat obesity?
The reality is that the information currently available is controversial. Some studies claim that there may be a small reduction in weight by taking natural supplements; however, they also point to the presence of side effects. Other research claims that the substances mentioned are not effective.
We advise that you change your eating habits and start a regular exercise routine to fight excess weight in a healthy way. This is, without a doubt, the best strategy to follow!
As always, we recommend that you avoid taking supplements without consulting your doctor. Finally, if you are looking for a treatment for obesity, avoid self-medication. Remember, you need to get expert advice before changing any habits that could affect your health.
