Many supplements can help you to lose belly fat faster than with diet and exercise alone. Do not, however, make the mistake of expecting these fat-burning supplements to do all the work for you. And you must make sure to take them regularly and in adequate doses to provide the desired effects and benefits. These natural supplements work by increasing thermogenesis, rejuvenating thyroid output and preventing the storage of new body fat.
Green Tea's EGCG
Long known as a weight loss aid, green tea contains an antioxidant known as EGCG or epigallocatechin gallate, which elevates resting metabolic rate, according to "Homemade Supplement Secrets" by Jeff Anderson. Get a green tea extract that is standardized to contain 300 mg EGCG per serving and take it one to three times per day.
Caffeine
Caffeine has a synergistic effect on fat burning when combined with green tea, according to author Anderson. They both have thermogenic effects on the body, but together they work better than either does alone. Caffeine is a stimulant and may not be acceptable for all people, especially if you are at risk for heart disease. Take 200 mg with your green tea up to three times daily.
7-Keto
7-Keto is a non-hormonal metabolite of the hormone DHEA, which has anti-aging and fat-burning effects in the body. 7-Keto works by increasing the body's production of important fat-burning thyroid hormones, according to "Supplements 101." These substances basically set the thermostat of your body, determining how much fat you will burn. Take 100 to 200 mg per day in three divided doses.
Beta-Phenyethylamine
Sometimes referred to as B-PEA, this natural chemical found in chocolate is a metabolite or the amino acid phenylalanine. It contributes to belly fat burning by triggering fat cells to release more of their stored energy. When the body releases the adrenal hormone epinephrine, fatty acids uncouple from their stores to be burned as energy, according to "Supplements 101." Take 100 to 500 mg twice per day.
Forskolin
Forskolin is the active ingredient in the Ayurvedic herb coleus forskohlii. It increases fat burning and has been shown to lower body fat percentage in weight training men, according to "Natural Anabolics." As a side effect it may also increase the amount of free circulating testosterone in men. Take 25 to 50 mg of forskolin two or three times per day.
CLA
CLA, conjugated linoleic acid, is a fat found in sunflower and safflower oils, as well as in organic dairy products, in trace amounts. According to "Five Fat Fighters," it acts to increase fatty acid usage in the body and prevent fat storage. Take three to six grams per day in divided doses with meals.
References
- "Homemade Supplement Secrets"; Jeff Anderson; 2008
- Muscle & Fitness: The Ultimate Supplement Handbook; "Five Fat Fighters"; Matthew Kadey
- "Natural Anabolics"; Jerry Brainum; 2006
- Muscle & Fitness: The Ultimate Supplement Handbook; "Supplements 101"; Jim Stoppani
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