Weight loss is a multibillion-dollar industry, with products being introduced to market all the time. For a dieter looking to speed his progress, these products can often be a tempting option. Unfortunately, however, many of these products are unproven, with little guarantee for safety. According to the American Council on Exercise, a well-rounded nutrition plan balances safety with effectiveness. A few select weight-loss products will safely speed your efforts.
Whey Protein
Whey protein is an all-purpose supplement that can boost your metabolism and speed weight loss. According to sports nutrition expert Dr. Mauro Di Pasquale, protein has a metabolism-stimulating effect and can increase the amount of calories you burn over the course of the day. Protein is naturally occurring in meat, fish, eggs and most dairy products. Whey protein supplements make it easy to add protein to your diet without extra fat, calories and cholesterol. Whey protein is safe for healthy individuals. If you have compromised kidney function, speak to a physician before using a protein supplement.
Caffeine
Although well-known as the stimulating element in coffee and chocolate, caffeine is also a safe and effective weight-loss aid. According to "The Physician and Sports Medicine Journal," caffeine, when taken before cardiovascular exercise, seems to increase the amount of fat burned for fuel. Caffeine can also improve endurance, helping you exercise longer and harder. Caffeine has a diuretic effect and can cause a temporary reduction in water weight. While widely used and generally recognized as safe, caffeine should always be treated as a drug and should be used under the supervision of a physician when used for weight loss.
Chromium
Chromium picolinate is a mineral that plays a role in glucose metabolism. When taken as a supplement, chromium acts with the hormone insulin to carry glucose to muscles where it can be burned for energy. While more research is needed to confirm chromium's effectiveness, the Mayo Clinic considers it likely that chromium is safe.
References
- "The Metabolic Diet"; Dr. Mauro Di Pasquale; 2000
- "ACE Personal Trainer Manual: The Ultimate Resource for Fitness Professionals, 3rd Edition"; Cedric X. Bryant and Daniel J. Green; 2003
- Mayo Clinic: Over-the-Counter Weight-Loss Pills
- The Physician and Sports Medicine: Fat Burning During Exercise
Member Comments