The Lipozene weight-loss supplement contains the active ingredient glucomannan, a vegetable fiber. Manufactured by the private company Obesity Research Institute, Lipozene is available online through an official website and also marketed by independent distributors. The official website recommends consulting your health care provider before beginning any weight-loss program and before taking this supplement.
Identification
The root of the plant Amorphophallus konjac is the source of Lipozene's active ingredient. Like any other soluble fiber, glucomannan works by absorbing water in the digestive system and expanding, creating a sensation of fullness so you don't feel hungry, explains eMedTV. Soluble fiber also has a stool-bulking effect, and it creates large soft stools that are easy to pass.
Expert Insight
A study appearing in the "International Journal of Obesity" in 1984 examined the effects of glucomannan fiber as a supplement in obese individuals instructed not to change their diet or exercise habits. For eight weeks, participants took glucomannan in two 500 mg capsules with water one hour before each of three meals, and lost an average of 5.5 lb. They also experienced decreases in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, the so-called bad cholesterol.
Misconceptions
Lipozene television advertisements claim that the supplement's effectiveness is supported by 12 clinical studies, but these studies researched the ingredient glucomannan and not the product Lipozene, cautions David Heber, professor of medicine at the University of California at Los Angeles, as quoted by ABC News in an article published on Jan. 2, 2008. Heber also noted that all the studies included diet and exercise.
Considerations
Early research suggests glucomannan may be somewhat effective for weight loss, according to eMedTV, but the website notes that no research has focused on Lipozene specifically. In addition, the advertised claims for Lipozene are more impressive than the research results for glucomannan, and rely mainly on anecdotal experiences in personal testimonials. Lipozene is generally more expensive than many other brands containing the same active ingredient, products which are available at health food stores from well-known supplement manufacturers.
Lipozene Advantage
Lipozene has one advantage over many glucomannan supplements in that the active ingredient is provided in capsules rather than supplied in powder or tablets. Glucomannan absorbs water and expands into a gel-like substance, which can be dangerous if the powder or tablet becomes stuck in the throat or esophagus, as noted by eMedTV. This problem can occur if not drinking enough water when taking glucomannan. It is unlikely to happen with Lipozene unless you have difficulty swallowing or a constriction of your esophagus.
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