Can Supplements Help With Weight Loss?

Weight loss is at the forefront of the minds of millions of Americans, and almost 1 in 2 adults are considered overweight. Losing weight is not just about looking good. Obesity is at the center of cardiovascular disease, reproductive conditions, some cancers, and much more. Dieticians are also becoming crucial in a society eager to drop pounds. Most will agree that no magic pill will trump a healthy diet and exercise. However, some supplements can help by speeding up metabolism or providing a healthy base for future weight loss.

Try fish oil

Fish oil is one of the most common and highly researched supplements available today. This supplement contains omega-3s, a group of fatty acids essential to health. Omega-3s help with heart and brain health but may also increase weight loss. Small studies show that an omega-3 supplement increases metabolism, resulting in more calories burned. Fish oil supplements may also help the body with using fat for fuel.

Curcumin from turmeric

Turmeric is a fantastic spice that gives curries fantastic color and flavor. For hundreds of years, turmeric has also been used to treat several ailments. The active ingredient, curcumin, is filled with anti-inflammatory properties. Some studies have shown that curcumin supplements can help with weight loss. Participants taking a supplement combined with peperine, a property found in black pepper, for 30 days, more than doubled weight loss results. Turmeric supplements can cause unwanted side effects, so speak with a doctor or pharmacist first.

Can green tea help with weight loss?

Green tea is an excellent alternative to a morning cup of coffee. Like coffee, green tea contains antioxidants that can give an energy boost. The low-sugar alternative contains polyphenols, and drinking 4 cups per day can help with weight loss. Green tea extract in supplement form provides added energy, which helps with weight loss for some people.

CLA for weight loss

Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) is a group of omega-6 fatty acids found in meat and dairy products. CLA has been used for blood pressure control, diabetes management, and even managing some cancers. Recently, there have been promising strides in weight loss and bodybuilding. In supplement form, CLA may help with reducing body fat and increasing lean muscle mass.

Vitamin B12

The vitamin B12 is part of the group of B vitamins and the most versatile of the bunch. This vitamin works at the DNA level and is involved in hundreds of processes in the body. However, B12 can also help with weight management as a deficiency often means a slow metabolism. Slow metabolism leads to poor exercise performance and the body storing excess fat.

Safety matters

Dietician-recommended supplements only add to a consistent diet and exercise plan. These supplements can take weight loss to another level. However, all supplements aren’t created equal. Many supplements on the market are ineffective or even contain dangerous additives. Make sure to speak with a doctor or pharmacist for the best available supplements. More importantly, supplements must go hand-in-hand with the right diet and exercise for successful weight loss.