Diet and Nutrition

Weight-loss Supplement

10/31/2000

Question:

A friend of mine has lost weight on a weight-loss supplement she`s taking. Here are the ingredients. Can this be dangerous or is it okay to try it. Collegen, Aloe Vera, CLA (?), Stevia, Natural kiwi flavor, Natural strawberry flavor, Garcinia cambogia, Chromemate, Xanthan gum, Less that 1% of Potassium and Sorbate. Benzoate as preservative.

Answer:

Thank you for your question. There is much more to consider than "is this supplement dangerous". The supplement industry is largely unregulated so we really do not know if the weight loss supplement that your friend is taking really contains what it says it contains. Also, what do you want to accomplish by taking this supplement? Weight loss only? You might have weight loss, but if you do not understand why you gained in the first place, you will regain as soon as you discontinue the supplement.
In terms of what is in the supplement, the Garcinia cambogia is promoted as a weight loss aid based on its active ingredient hydroxycitric acid (HCA); however, it does not appear to aid in weight loss, body fat loss nor does it increase the rate of fat oxidation (the burning of stored fat). Stevia provides sweetness without calories. Is this supplement a beverage? Stevia does tend to lower blood pressure and may increase the effects of blood pressure-lowering medication. Xanthan gum may increase the viscosity of a beverage and provide some feeling of fullness. It is not uncommon as a food additive. Chromemate is probably a form of chromium which is involved in carbohydrate, lipid and protein metabolism by increasing the activity of insulin. It has been linked to weight loss, but there seems to be no advantage to adding it to your diet unless you are chromium deficient. It does, however, appear to be safe. Aloe vera when taken internally may stimulate bile secretion and have a laxative effect at high levels. It can be dangerous when used during pregnancy (not a time to be losing weight) or by individuals with intestinal inflammation or kidney disease. Aloe may also decrease the absorption of drugs taken orally and have potentially harmful interactions with potassium-wasting medications. CLA, conjugated linoleic acid, does not have the research behind it to support its proposed role in increasing muscle mass.
So, I do not suggest this supplement for weight reduction as the risks most likely outweigh the benefits. If your goal is permanent weight loss, save your money and put your effort into permanent, healthy lifestyle changes with which you can live. For more information on weight reduction, check the netwellness website for previously answered questions.

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Response by:

Shirley A. Kindrick, PhD
Team Leader
Comprehensive Weight Management Program
Center for Wellness and Prevention
The Ohio State University Medical Center
The Ohio State University