Fat Burners & Fat Loss - Fat-Burning Supplements

Are you confused about which fat burners to use, if they're safe, or if any of them really even work? Finally, renowned authorities on physique development and supplement science have rated the best "fat-burner" supplements…

Ever wonder which supplements are "best" for burning off that dreaded, unwanted bodyfat? Call them thermogenics, fat-loss catalysts, metabolic enhancers, fat burners, or any other name... these supplement all focus on one thing: fat loss! Here are five of the best fat burners we will highlight for you now:

Whether you're trying to shed 30 lbs of fat, competing in a physique-transformation competition, striving to get ripped for your next vacation, or somewhere in between... here you'll find a clear-cut path. You see, we've done the work for you and thoroughly reviewed and rated the top 15 "fat-fighting" supplements to take the guesswork out of figuring out which ones work, which ones are totally worthless, and which are downright scams for one reason: so you don't have to.

This fact-filled report arms you with the type of detailed information on the latest fat-fighting aids you need to make intelligent, informed choices. You'll discover which supplements are proven and can really make a difference; which remain speculative; which remain unproven; and equally important, which ones are safe and void of potential (harmful) side effects.

NOTICE: Information provided herein is for informational purposes only and is not meant to substitute for the advice provided by a qualified physician or other medical professional. Information and statements contained herein, regarding dietary and food supplements, have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration, and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease. Always seek the advice of a qualified health-care practitioner prior to use of supplements if you have any pre-existing medical conditions, including high blood pressure, heart or thyroid problems, nervous disorders, diabetes, or are taking any prescription drug. Do not use fat-burner supplements if pregnant or lactating.

Fat Burner #1—GREEN TEA

What is it?
Green, black, and oolong teas are all derived from the same plant—amellia sinensis. Green tea was originally discovered by an emperor some 4,000 years ago. Since that time, this powerful tea has notably become the "supplement of choice" for many seeking greater health and control over their weight. For good reason: not only does it have an interesting, appealing flavor when prepared as tea, science defends some astounding benefits when it's used as a supplement for immune enhancement and fat mobilization. New research has shown green tea may help our bodies burn more calories, faster, which is why it's showing up in more and more fat-loss formulas.

How it works
Green tea or, more accurately, the polyphenols in green tea, appear to activate our bodies' "thermogenic activity," promoting the use of calories as energy and thus may assist our "fat-fighting" efforts. These all-important polyphenols in green tea also appear to help produce "natural viral killer" immune cells, which scavenge and fight off bacteria and flush out toxins, which basically means it may protect our bodies from the free radicals that damage cells and weaken our immune systems. Of course, this is important for active people as well because intense exercise has actually been shown to increase free radicals in our bodies, and if free radicals are running amuck, it's more difficult to recover.

What does the science say?
A recent study in Geneva showed that green tea is naturally packed with caffeine and compounds called "catechin polyphenols." This is of significant interest to those of us trying to reduce our weight because both of these substances have been documented to increase resting metabolic rate—or more simply stated, rev up our bodies' calorie-burning potential. You see, the caffeine found in green tea allows our bodies to use bodyfat for energy (that is, it's "lipolytic"). When stored calories are used for short-term energy, our bodies burn more fat. In fact, this study, performed on healthy men, showed green tea alone produced a four percent increase in energy burned over a placebo. The researchers concluded that green tea may be useful for speeding up fat burning and promoting our bodies' ability to burn more calories over an extended time.

How to take it
Most research suggests taking 300 to 600 mg per day of green tea with meals, which should contain up to 97% polyphenol concentrate. (This would be equal to drinking four cups of tea per day.)

Important Tip: When choosing a green tea, it is best to look for the measurement of polyphenols, which are believed to be responsible for green tea's benefits. Three cups of tea per day should provide around 240 to 300 mg of the polyphenols.

Fat Burner #2—COLEUS FORSKOHLII

What is it?
Coleus forskohlii is an ancient Ayurvedic plant and member of the mint and lavender family, which grows in the mountains of Asia. Recent research has shown that the active ingredient in coleus is forskolin, which plays a major role in a variety of important cellular functions, including inhibiting histamine release, relaxing muscles, increasing thyroid function, and increasing fat-burning activity. Though scientists are only just confirming the many benefits of coleus, there's a definite "buzz" circulating about its potential for aiding in fat loss.

How it works
The main argument for using it to drop fat is that the active chemical forskolin initiates a cascade of chemical reactions that cause fat cells to basically release their energy and melt away. In more technical terms, what happens is forskolin increases an enzyme called adenylate cyclase, which increases levels of another enzyme called cAMP (cyclic AMP), which is found in fat. cAMP then stimulates another enzyme, hormone sensitive lipase, to burn fat. Additionally, by a similar mechanism using cAMP, coleus increases thyroid hormone production and release, thereby increasing the body's metabolism, to burn more calories.

Basically, forskolin initiates a similar cascade of chemical reactions as ephedrine. Where coleus differs from ephedrine is ephedrine stimulates adrenergic receptors (which is the primary mechanism for ephedrine, even though this process is not totally accountable for its fat-burning effects) before it reaches cAMP. Unfortunately, many negative side effects can be experienced when some of these adrenergic receptors are stimulated, such as increased blood pressure, anxiety, etc. (This is basically why users of ephedrine-based supplements oftentimes experience unwanted and sometimes dangerous side effects.)

To the coleus user's advantage, however, coleus bypasses the adrenergic receptors and goes straight into the cAMP cycle, which is the next step in the ephedrine fat-burning process and subsequently also bypasses all of the potential unwanted, adverse effects associated with ephedrine. Simply stated, this is like having the option of two journeys driving to work: both will get you to the identical spot, and both will take the same amount of time, but one route (coleus) is a calm country drive with no traffic, whereas the other route (ephedrine) is a busy high-speed motorway with perils and hazards with every lane change... we know which route we prefer!

What does the science say?
Scientists have, in fact, studied the effects of coleus for over 15 years and have found an abundance of benefits, including bodyfat reduction and lean body mass enhancement. However, scientists are only now beginning to show how these effects occur in the real world. While more research is indeed needed (as is the case for many supplements), these theories and initial clinical studies adequately support its claimed benefits. Still, there is apparently some even more exciting research on the horizon.

Speaking of exciting research...
One of the most respected individuals in the field of sports nutrition research, Dr. Richard Kreider conducted an interesting presentation called "Ephedra Alternatives" at Nutracon, held in March 2003 in Anaheim. Here he touched on a range of speculative but promising nutrients, one of them being coleus. Dr. Kreider stated that initial pilot studies suggest Coleus forskholii may promote weight and fat loss and/or mitigate (or moderate) weight gain in overweight subjects.

He also presented data at the 2002 Experimental Biology meeting of his own study on coleus. In a double-blind, randomized study, 23 overweight females supplemented their diets with ForsLean (a patented form of coleus) extracted for 25 mg of forskolin two times per day for 12 weeks. The participants' body composition and bodyweight were examined every four weeks for the 12-week study period, and any side effects were recorded on a weekly basis. The study results found that although no significant differences were observed in caloric or macronutrient intake, ForsLean helped mitigate gains in body mass—that is, subjects taking ForsLean observed a slight decrease in bodyweight while subjects taking the placebo continued to gain weight. Additionally, the study showed users felt less fatigue and they had more energy. And their appetites were reduced, so they felt fuller for longer. Also on the upside, there were no reported negative side effects.

How to take it
A common dosage range is 50 to 100 mg two or three times a day. Fluid extracts of two to four milliliters taken three times per day are used as well. Important Tip: An extract standardized to at least 10% to 20% forskolin is preferred.

Fat Burner—YERBA MATE

What is it?
Yerba mate is a perennial (a plant that doesn't die at the end of the year) and member of the holly family, evident by its leathery leaves. It grows wild in the rainforests of Argentina, Chile, Peru, Brazil, and Paraguay (where it is cultivated). Just about everyone has felt the jittery side effects of too much caffeine at one time or another. Yerbe mate, in contrast, gives your brain a boost without making you nervous. Interestingly, it has been shown to improve mood and concentration, reduce anxiety, prevent mental fatigue, and prolong the effects of thermogenesis (i.e., fat burning)... along with a multitude of other compelling benefits.

How it works
There are 196 chemicals in yerba mate that become active in the body once consumed—including B vitamins; Vitamins A, C, and E; and the minerals calcium, magnesium, iron, potassium, and selenium. And mate has 11 polyphenols, which are powerful antioxidants. But the most important chemical in mate is "mateine." Mateine is a xanthine alkaloid. You might have heard of other xanthines, such as caffeine, theophylline, and theobromine. Strikingly, mateine appears to possess the best combination of xanthine properties. Like other xanthines, it mildly arouses the central nervous system, but unlike other stimulants, it doesn't appear to be addicting, nor does it produce unwanted side effects such as insomnia or nervousness. Interestingly, it actually works as a tonic for the central nervous system, calming the body and mind, leaving you feeling alert and sharp.

The result of the chemical combination in mate is then responsible for its substantial increase in energy and fat burning. Mate appears to help support long-term energy by maintaining energy production with oxygen for longer periods of time, which burns more calories, improves heart efficiency, and delays buildup of endurance-robbing waste products, such as lactic acid, that are created by anaerobic glycolysis (energy production without oxygen). One indicator that it is working to burn more fat is a drop in something called the respiratory quotient (RQ), which indicates a rise in the proportion of fat being oxidized or burned in the body.

What does the science say?
"Hot off the press": Dr. Torben Andersen undertook a study at Charlottenlund Medical Centre in Denmark with 44 healthy overweight patients using an herbal combination of guarana and another two herbs, yerba mate and Damiana. Dr. Andersen's results were quite positive: those taking the herbal combination for 45 days lost an average of five kilograms kg (or about 11 lbs). This was a significant difference compared to the placebo group, which lost only an average of 0.45 kg (or about one pound). Also noteworthy, the herbal combination delayed gastric emptying by 20 minutes, which means a longer feeling of fullness after eating a meal.

How to take it
Research indicates the intake of yerba mate to be most effective at 500 to 1,500 mg daily two to three times evenly throughout the day, before meals and/or exercise. Recent theory: Mate may be most effective for promoting fat loss if one serving is taken upon rising, first thing in the morning, especially before cardiovascular exercise.

Fat Burner—EPHEDRA

What is it?
Ephedra, or ma huang (its interchangeable herbal name), is an ancient Chinese herbal form of the powerful stimulant ephedrine. Recently, it has grown in popularity—both good and bad—throughout the world, as a most revered weight-loss aid because it has been shown in numerous studies to temporarily suppress appetite, is a natural stimulant, and acts as a thermogenic—burning more calories, faster. Yet, because of the media's recent attention on its "higher than normal" rate of Adverse Event reports to the FDA, ephedra may be best known for its potential negative side effects.

How it works
Imagine you're crossing the street and a speeding car almost hits you. Within seconds, you begin to sweat, your heart pounds, and you feel almost out of breath. This is known as the "fight-or-flight" response. Well, consuming an herb called ephedra (or ma huang) appears to produce a similar result—due to increased adrenaline and central nervous system stimulation of beta-1,2 receptors. In essence, it increases blood pressure and heart rate, makes you sweat, and increases blood flow to the heart, brain, and muscles. Only it may last quite a bit longer than your body's immediate response to avoiding a car—more like 20 to 30 minutes. This internal act, in turn, raises the body's core temperature—a process called thermogenesis—and helps break down (burn) fat cells.

What does the science say?
Ephedra has been shown in numerous studies to be an effective weight-loss aid (as a thermogenic and appetite suppressant). Plus, research indicates it can temporarily enhance energy levels. Until recently, ma huang was considered the most effective natural thermogenic on the market. However, you should know that since 1994, the FDA has received and investigated over 800 reports of Adverse Events (i.e., reactions) associated with products with ephedra (or ma huang). Reports that range from elevated blood pressure, muscle disturbances, insomnia, dry mouth, heart palpitations, nervousness, strokes, and even death.

Due to these reports, the FDA prompted a considerable study on ephedra, entitled "Adverse Cardiovascular and Central Nervous System Events Associated with Dietary Supplements Containing Ephedra Alkaloids." The conclusion of the study, which was published in December of 2000, said "...the occurrence of events that caused permanent disability and death, we conclude that dietary supplements that contain ephedra alkaloids pose a serious health risk..." It's our take then, these findings indicate the need for a better understanding of individual susceptibility to the adverse effects of ephedra, and it should be used with extreme caution or avoided altogether as a fat-loss supplement.

How to take it
For instant "energy" as a performance stimulant or to enhance the body's ability to burn fat, studies support taking from 12.5 to 25 mg of ephedrine two to three times daily. When using the herbal ma huang or ephedra extract (standardized for eight percent ephedrine alkaloids), 150 to 300 mg two to three times per day is reportedly effective.

Important Notice: Ephedra and ephdrine-containing supplements have recently been banned by the FDA (in December of 2003).

Fat Burner—7-KETO™

What is it?
This powerful micronutrient is the product of years of intense research—7-Keto is a new breed of supplement—one engineered for specific results. Its ability to promote safe fat loss without the "buzz" of stimulants is a breakthrough in weight-loss supplements and is creating quite a stir in both the scientific arena and in the real world. Recently developed and awarded five patents, 7-Keto was discovered by Dr. Henry Lardy, who spent the last 10 years examining over 150 metabolites in hopes of finding a nutrient that would impart the positive benefits in promoting thermogenesis—increasing the body's metabolism (to burn more calories). What Dr. Lardy has discovered is suggested by many researchers to be the most potent thermogenic enhancer available in aiding safe, effective fat loss... and for good reason.

How it works
Search the shelves at your local health-food store, and you'll find them lined with today's more popular weight-loss products that claim to "boost" metabolic rate. However, look a little closer at the label, and you'll discover the substances contained in these formulas are nothing more than stimulant-based nutrients (i.e., ephedra, ma huang, Sida cordifolia, etc.), which primarily works by suppressing the appetite and causes weight loss through limiting the urge to eat, with only a limited ability to increase the body's metabolic rate (its ability to burn calories).

7-Keto is quite different in its mechanism of action in the body. It works by helping to increase the body's metabolic rate by way of the thyroid (T3) gland. A much safer approach to fat loss than stimulants. What most people don't realize is that after the age of about 25, our metabolisms (the rate our bodies burn calories) begin to slow, and often, no matter how hard we resist, our bodies insist on burning less and less calories. The inevitable response is to store the "unburned" calories as fat, and thus, we have a harder time keeping unwanted weight off. This is where 7-Keto can play a vital role in weight reduction and particularly in fat loss by "shifting" the metabolic rate, so the body is able to increase fat metabolism, even while resting.

What does the science say?
A new peer-reviewed clinical trial reveals a significant reduction in both bodyweight and bodyfat in overweight adults by positively impacting thyroid functioning: in a double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 100 mg of 7-Keto taken twice daily for eight weeks was shown to increase levels of the thyroid hormone T3 (or triiodothyronine) by an astounding, yet safe (within the normal range) 17.88%. The placebo group, by comparison, experienced an increase of only 2.75%. This is significant because T3 is not only the most active thyroid hormone but also has the greatest effect on metabolic rate.

These results for fat loss faired positively as well: over the eight weeks, the 7-Keto group lost a significant amount of bodyweight compared to the placebo group. In fact, the 7-Keto group lost three times more fat than the placebo group (6.34 lbs vs. 2.13 lbs). Plus, bodyfat percentages decreased by 1.8% for the 7-Keto group, and the placebo group experienced only a .57% loss.

How to take it
Interestingly, because of the high cost to produce 7-Keto, most supplement companies suggest taking 25 to 50 mg per day. However, according to the most recent studies, 100 mg of 7-Keto taken twice daily (for 200 mg per day) was found to be most effective for weight loss. Evidence shows that taking from 100 to 200 mg per day can impart positive effects on fat loss.

Important Tip: 7-Keto is a patented supplement, so watch out... if you come across a product that is supposed to have real 7-Keto in it, and it doesn't have the U.S. patent number 5,296,481 (for weight loss) on the label, don't buy it! It's a counterfeit. A very good source of 7-Keto may be found in the fat-burner product called Lean System 7.

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Fat Burners & Fat-Loss Supplements

FAT BURNERS... OVERVIEW

Fat Burner #1—GREEN TEA

Fat Burner #2—COLEUS FORSKOHLII

Fat Burner—YERBA MATE

Fat Burner—EPHEDRA

Fat Burner—7-KETO™