Home | Health | Weight Management | Weight Loss Supplements | What Are Herbal Weight Loss Supplements?

What Are Herbal Weight Loss Supplements?

by Dr. James Pendleton

Overview

The demand for herbal supplements specifically designed for weight loss drives a multibillion dollar industry in the United States. When used as part of a healthy program, these supplements may reduce body fat and suppress appetite. They may also protect against the muscle loss commonly experienced with dieting. Herbal weight-loss supplements vary in mechanism and substantiated proof. Adverse effects may be related to use and should be avoided by those with unusual health conditions unless under medical supervision.
Significance

In the United States, more than $40 billion a year is spent on weight-loss products and programs while 66 percent of adults are either overweight or obese. At least 25 percent of the U.S. adult population is currently on a weight loss regimen regardless of actual weight.

Function

Formulas incorporating single or multiple herbs may induce weight loss by inhibiting the absorption of nutrients, increasing the body's metabolism and reducing appetite.
Types

Popular weight-loss formulas may incorporate thermogenic components like green tea (Camellia sinensis) and caffeine, fucoxanthin (a caratenoid derived from seaweed), or an Indian herb called Coleus forskohlii. Appetite-suppressing herbs include Hoodia gordonii or soluble Glucomannan kojac fiber. Cissus quadrangularis and potato extract inhibit the absorption of dietary fat and carbohydrates, whereas Garcinia cambogia extracts inhibit the body's production of fat.
Benefits

When used as part of a healthy program involving wise diet choices and exercise, herbal weight-loss supplements may enhance the reduction of body fat and protect muscle. They may also alleviate cravings and promote feelings of energy.
Considerations

Research substantiates thermogenic fat-burning properties associated with a daily dose of 270 mg of green tea-derived Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) combined with 150 mg of caffeine. Other herbal materials such as fucoxanthin, cissus, and coleus appear promising, but they lack definitive substantiation with human models. Although studies are contradictory regarding garcinia's worth, the popular herb hoodia has no scientific substantiation and appears to be highly counterfeited in the mass market.
Warning

Those with unusual health conditions should consult their physicians prior to beginning any herbal weight loss program. Formulas containing caffeine may temporarily increase heart rate (tachycardia) and cause chest pain. Some herbs may cause gastrointestinal complaints, and herbs with fat-blocking effects may reduce the body's ability to absorb vital nutrients like vitamins D and E. Finally, plant materials like glucomannan expand with the addition of water, posing a choking hazard when in capsule form.