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Weight loss supplements have gained a lot of traction over the last few years, but there are so many products on the market that it’s become increasingly difficult to know what’s legitimate and what’s not. In this article, we’ll tell you about the different types of supplements, how to choose a supplement, and how to shop smart.
Types of Weight Loss Supplements
There are many different supplements out there and they all target different areas. Although this isn’t an extensive list, some of the most popular include:
- Fat burners: Fat burners, like CLA and L-carnitine, supposedly help the body burn more fat. However, the research supporting this is pretty dubious.
- Stimulants: Caffeine is one of the most widely used stimulants. These supplements work to increase energy levels, support metabolism and may lead to a higher calorie burn rate.
- Carbohydrate blockers: These supplements can prevent the body from absorbing carbohydrates, which can lead to increased weight loss. However, side effects often include excess gas and diarrhea.
- Protein supplements: If you exercise regularly, protein supplements can help to build muscle and reduce post-workout pain. However, protein supplements can cause kidney stones and other digestive issues.
- Fiber supplements: Fiber helps us feel fuller for longer, which is why we need to eat fruit and vegetables. Fiber supplements are actually considered relatively safe, and there are little to no side effects.
- Appetite suppressants: Appetite supplements, like glucomannan and fiber, are designed to help you feel fuller for much longer. However, as well as helping to lose weight, they can cause constipation and diarrhea.
How to Choose a Weight Loss Supplement?
Weight loss supplements can work differently depending on who takes them, so what’s working for your friends may not be your best option. To choose the best supplement for you, start by writing goals and considering individual needs. Do you want to boost your metabolism, lose weight, or suppress your appetite?
Next, take a look at the ingredients for each potential supplement. There may be certain ingredients that don’t agree with you. For example, if you’re looking to suppress your appetite but don’t want a caffeine-based supplement, you may want to take a deeper look into Leanbean.
Manufacturers have to recommend a ‘safe’ dosage, but this doesn’t mean it will suit everyone. Before you buy a supplement, speak to a healthcare professional to make sure it will be safe for consumption; you may need to adjust the dosage.
Tips for Smart Shopping
After choosing an ingredient agreeable to your body, it’s time to cut through the noise and find a worthwhile weight loss supplement to invest in. To start with, you should buy from a reputable retailer, whether it’s a well-known food health store, a pharmacist, or another reputable seller. Additionally, you should shop around to find the best price possible; you don’t want to pay more than you have to.
Given how popular weight loss supplements are, there’s no surprise that scammers are out in force trying to exploit innocent customers like yourself. If you come across a supplement that feels too good to be true, it most likely is. Before spending money, read online reviews to get a sense of how the supplement has worked on other users.
If you’re still not sure if a supplement is legitimate, it’s best to move on to another option. To find a verified product, check for ‘third-party testing’, which means an independent lab has checked the product and confirmed the ingredient list accuracy.
Weight loss supplements can be a great addition when used alongside a healthy lifestyle, but it’s important to spend time researching the best options for your body. If you follow the tips outlined above, you’ll have a safe supplement in no time.
