Obesity can put you at risk for numerous health problems, including heart disease, so losing weight may help you prolong your life and look and feel better. MayoClinic.com notes that dietary supplements can be beneficial for losing weight, but they are best used in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise plan. The website also explains that many products you may find in the store are not necessarily safe or effective, so you should consult a doctor prior to use.
Green Tea Extracts
Green tea contains minimal calories and is purported to have a number of health benefits due to the caffeine and other natural herbal compounds. Green tea extracts are a popular type of nutrition and weight loss supplement, as they offer a concentrated source of the compounds in green tea. Research published in the January 2011 issue of the "Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry" explains that compounds in green tea known as catechins may help increase energy expenditure, or calorie burning, as well as the burning of fat for energy. These effects may encourage weight loss.
Fish Oil
Fish oil is a supplement used to supply omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential fats your body needs for optimal function. The University of Maryland Medical Center explains that omega-3 fatty acids may help you manage your blood pressure and cholesterol, which can decrease your risk of heart disease. Additionally, an October 2010 study from the "Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition" found that using fish oil for six weeks encouraged improved muscle gain and reduced body fat in study participants.
Calcium
Calcium is a vital nutrient that helps maintain the integrity of your teeth and bones. MedlinePlus also explains that calcium aids in muscle contractions and the secretion of enzymes and hormones. Calcium may also aid in weight loss; a study published in the January 2010 issue of the "International Journal of Obesity" found that increased calcium intake promotes weight loss by encouraging increased fat excretion.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C can be both a weight loss and nutritional product, as this nutrient aids in healing wounds and providing protection from free radicals, potentially damaging metabolic waste products. The vitamin may also promote weight loss; a study from the March 2008 issue of the "International Journal for Vitamin and Nutrition Research" indicates that vitamin C can help prevent fat deposition, which can help you lose weight.
References
- Mayo Clinic; Weight Loss: Diet Pills, Supplements and Surgery; March 2011
- "Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry"; Antiobesity Effects of Green Tea Catechins: A Mechanistic Review; T.M. Rains, S. Agarwal, K.C. Maki; January 2011
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Omega-3 Fatty Acids; June 2009
- "Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition"; Effects of Supplemental Fish Oil on Resting Metabolic Rate, Body Composition and Salivary Cortisol in Healthy Adults; E.E. Noreen et al.; October 2010
- "International Journal for Vitamin and Nutrition Research"; Vitamin C Supplementation Influences Body Fat Mass and Steroidogenesis-Related Genes When Fed a High-Fat Diet; J. Campion et al.; March 2008
- "International Journal of Obesity"; Effect of Dairy and Non-Dairy Calicum on Fecal Fat Excretion in Lactose Digester and Maldigester Obese Adults; M.S. Buchowski et al.; January 2010
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