There are many powerful weight loss supplements on the market that can help you achieve your fitness goals faster than diet and exercise alone. These substances act to reduce hunger, increase energy and elevate metabolic rate. Some of the strongest natural fat burning compounds are potent stimulants and may not be right for some users. In particular, individuals at risk for heart disease should consult with a doctor before beginning to use any weight loss supplement.
Caffeine
A powerful stimulant, caffeine can help to fuel your intense workouts by giving you energy and increasing mental focus. Moreover, it increases power and strength output almost immediately, according to "Power Pills" by Jose Antonia, PhD. Caffeine also acts as a hunger suppressant, speeds up metabolism and increases the release of fatty acids from body fat stores. Take 100mg to 300mg every four hours, says "Supplements 101" by Jim Stoppani, PhD.
Beta-Phenylethylamine
B-PEA or beta-phenylethylamine, triggers the release of more epinephrine, a neuro-hormone that promotes fat burning. In addition, B-PEA reduces perceived muscle pain and fatigue during exercise, allowing you to work out longer and harder. By boosting brain levels of dopamine and serotonin, phenylethylamine also causes a euphoric feeling and suppresses hunger. Take 100mgto 500 mg up to twice daily, says Stoppani.
Green Tea Extract
Green tea contains a potent antioxidant called EGCG, or epigallocatechin gallate, which has many healthy benefits. EGCG prolongs the activity of epinephrine, which means more fats are released to be burned as energy. In addition, green tea stabilizes insulin levels, preventing body fat storage. Taking 200 to 300 mg up to three times daily instantly boosts your metabolic rate by 4 percent, according to "Life Extension Magazine."
Yohimbine
The herb yohimbe contains the alkaloid substance yohimbine, which has stimulant properties in the human body. Many use yohimbe to boost male libido because it helps to dilate blood vessels for increased NO, or nitric oxide, which increases blood flow. According to "Natural Anabolics" author Jerry Brainum, higher NO levels lead to faster fat burning. Take a yohimbe supplement providing 2mg to 10 mg of yohimbine up to three times daily, says Stoppani.
Synephrine
Synephrine comes from the plant Citrus aurantium, or bitter orange. Structurally it resembles the banned substance ephedrine, however it does not have the same effect on blood pressure and heart rate, according to Stoppani. Like caffeine, synephrine stimulates fat cell receptors to release more fatty acids for energy. Take a product containing 5mg to 20mg of synephrine two to three times daily.
Forskolin
Forskolin comes from the Ayurvedic herb coleus forskohlii, which is a member of the mint family. In the body, it causes a cascade of events that lead to increased testosterone and more fat burning. Testosterone acts as a potent muscle building and fat burning substance in both men and women. According to Brainum, forskolin reduced body fat levels in exercising men taking 25mg to 30mg three times per day.
References
- "Muscle & Fitness Presents 2010 Edition: The Ultimate Supplement Handbook;" Power Pills; Jose Antonio, PhD; January 2010
- "Muscle & Fitness Presents 2010 Edition: The Ultimate Supplement Handbook;" Supplements 101; Jim Stoppani, PhD; January 2010
- Life Extension Magazine; The Nine Pillars of Successful Weight Loss; William Faloon; June 2009
- "Natural Anabolics;" Jerry Brainum; 2006
Member Comments