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FAT BURNERS Under the Microscope
Are you confused about which fat burners to use, if they're safe, or if any of them really
even work? Finally, renowned authorities on physique development and supplement science have rated
the best "fat-burner" supplements.
Ever wonder which supplements are "best" for burning off that dreaded, unwanted bodyfat? Call
them thermogenics, fat-loss catalysts, metabolic enhancers, fat burners, or any other name...
these supplement all focus on one thing: fat loss! Here are five of the best fat burners we
will highlight for you now:
Whether you're trying to shed 30 lbs of fat, competing in a physique-transformation competition,
striving to get ripped for your next vacation, or somewhere in between... here you'll find a
clear-cut path. You see, we've done the work for you and thoroughly reviewed and rated the top
15 "fat-fighting" supplements to take the guesswork out of figuring out which ones work, which
ones are totally worthless, and which are downright scams for one reason: so you don't have to.
To get the full report on all 15, download your FREE Fat-Burners eBook
here.
This fact-filled report arms you with the type of detailed information on the latest fat-fighting
aids you need to make intelligent, informed choices. You'll discover which supplements are proven and
can really make a difference; which remain speculative; which remain unproven; and equally important,
which ones are safe and void of potential (harmful) side effects.
NOTICE: Information provided herein is for informational purposes only and is not meant to
substitute for the advice provided by a qualified physician or other medical professional.
Information and statements contained herein, regarding dietary and food supplements, have not
been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat,
cure, or prevent any disease. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing
or treating a health problem or disease. Always seek the advice of a qualified health-care
practitioner prior to use of supplements if you have any pre-existing medical conditions,
including high blood pressure, heart or thyroid problems, nervous disorders, diabetes, or are
taking any prescription drug. Do not use fat-burner supplements if pregnant or lactating.
Fat Burner #1—CITRUS AURANTIUM
What is it?
Citrus aurantium, commonly referred to as bitter orange, has been used for thousands of
years in Traditional Chinese Medicine to improve overall health. That is, until recently, when
science discovered compounds (the most well-known being synephrine) from these little orange
fruits demonstrated equally powerful thermogenic ("fat-burning") activity. In fact, synephrine
has prominently become referred to as ephedra's "calmer chemical cousin" because it increases
the body's metabolic rate or ability to burn calories, without producing negative side effects
on the central nervous system and the cardiovascular system.
How it works
Citrus aurantium appears to work by way of its active compound called synephrine, which is
a bit like ephedra (an amphetamine-like chemical found in a lot of weight-loss and performance
products). Like ephedra, this chemical also appears to reduce appetite and boost metabolism—the
rate our bodies burn calories—thus stimulating fat loss. Unlike ephedra, though, you're likely
to experience very little, if any, side effects with Citrus aurantium. This is because
Citrus aurantium contains chemicals called amines (tyramine and octopamine), which are not
as lipophilic—meaning they do not cross the blood/brain barrier as easily as ephedra—which
reduces central nervous stimulation and cardiovascular effects. In other words, this could mean
no nervous energy (i.e., shakes or jitters), increased heart rate, or insomnia.
What does the science say?
According to recent research at McGill University, another reason Citrus aurantium gives
you a smooth flow of energy without the jitters is because it stimulates certain receptors
(called beta-3 adrenergic receptors) that help break down fat—known as lipolysis. Simultaneously,
this stimulation causes an increase in the metabolic rate. Therefore, you burn fat without
bothering other receptors (namely, beta-1, beta-2, or alpha-1) that over-stimulate your heart
rate and blood pressure. In contrast, ephedra stimulates all alpha- and beta-adrenergic receptors,
thus causing unwanted side effects. For this reason, synephrine is now being used as a replacement
for central nervous stimulants like ephedra in many thermogenic formulas.
How to take it
Most leading research indicates that four to 20 mg of synephrine per day, which usually is provided
by supplementing with 200 to 600 mg of a standardized Citrus aurantium extract (at three to six
percent synephrine), may be most effective. To get the full report, download
your FREE Fat-Burners eBook here.
Fat Burner #2—COLEUS FORSKOHLII
What is it?
Coleus forskohlii is an ancient Ayurvedic plant and member of the mint and lavender family,
which grows in the mountains of Asia. Recent research has shown that the active ingredient in coleus
is forskolin, which plays a major role in a variety of important cellular functions, including
inhibiting histamine release, relaxing muscles, increasing thyroid function, and increasing
fat-burning activity. Though scientists are only just confirming the many benefits of coleus,
there's a definite "buzz" circulating about its potential for aiding in fat loss.
How it works
The main argument for using it to drop fat is that the active chemical forskolin initiates a
cascade of chemical reactions that cause fat cells to basically release their energy and melt
away. In more technical terms, what happens is forskolin increases an enzyme called adenylate
cyclase, which increases levels of another enzyme called cAMP (cyclic AMP), which is found in
fat. cAMP then stimulates another enzyme, hormone sensitive lipase, to burn fat. Additionally,
by a similar mechanism using cAMP, coleus increases thyroid hormone production and release,
thereby increasing the body's metabolism, to burn more calories.
Basically, forskolin initiates a similar cascade of chemical reactions as ephedrine. Where
coleus differs from ephedrine is ephedrine stimulates adrenergic receptors (which is the
primary mechanism for ephedrine, even though this process is not totally accountable for
its fat-burning effects) before it reaches cAMP. Unfortunately, many negative side effects
can be experienced when some of these adrenergic receptors are stimulated, such as increased
blood pressure, anxiety, etc. (This is basically why users of ephedrine-based supplements
oftentimes experience unwanted and sometimes dangerous side effects.)
To the coleus user's advantage, however, coleus bypasses the adrenergic receptors and goes
straight into the cAMP cycle, which is the next step in the ephedrine fat-burning process and
subsequently also bypasses all of the potential unwanted, adverse effects associated with
ephedrine. Simply stated, this is like having the option of two journeys driving to work:
both will get you to the identical spot, and both will take the same amount of time, but one
route (coleus) is a calm country drive with no traffic, whereas the other route (ephedrine)
is a busy high-speed motorway with perils and hazards with every lane change... we know which
route we prefer!
What does the science say?
Scientists have, in fact, studied the effects of coleus for over 15 years and have found an
abundance of benefits, including bodyfat reduction and lean body mass enhancement. However,
scientists are only now beginning to show how these effects occur in the real world. While
more research is indeed needed (as is the case for many supplements), these theories and
initial clinical studies adequately support its claimed benefits. Still, there is apparently
some even more exciting research on the horizon.
Speaking of exciting research, this just in...
One of the most respected individuals in the field of sports nutrition research, Dr. Richard
Kreider recently conducted an interesting presentation called "Ephedra Alternatives" at
Nutracon, held in March in Anaheim. Here he touched on a range of speculative but promising
nutrients, one of them being coleus. Dr. Kreider stated that initial pilot studies suggest
Coleus forskholii may promote weight and fat loss and/or mitigate (or moderate) weight
gain in overweight subjects.
He also recently presented data at the 2002 Experimental Biology meeting of his own recently
conducted study on coleus. In a double-blind, randomized study, 23 overweight females supplemented
their diets with ForsLean (a patented form of coleus) extracted for 25 mg of forskolin two times per
day for 12 weeks. The participants' body composition and bodyweight were examined every four weeks
for the 12-week study period, and any side effects were recorded on a weekly basis. The study
results found that although no significant differences were observed in caloric or macronutrient
intake, ForsLean helped mitigate gains in body mass—that is, subjects taking ForsLean observed a
slight decrease in bodyweight while subjects taking the placebo continued to gain weight.
Additionally, the study showed users felt less fatigue, so they had more energy. And their
appetites were reduced, so they felt fuller for longer. Also on the upside, there were no
reported negative side effects.
How to take it
A common dosage range is 50 to 100 mg, two or three times a day. Fluid extracts of two to four
milliliters taken three times per day are used as well. Important Tip: An extract standardized
to at least 10% to 20% forskolin is preferred. To get the full report, download your
FREE Fat-Burners eBook here.
Fat Burner #3—YERBA MATE
What is it?
Yerba mate is a perennial (a plant that doesn't die at the end of the year) and member of the
holly family, evident by its leathery leaves. It grows wild in the rainforests of Argentina,
Chile, Peru, Brazil, and Paraguay (where it is cultivated). Just about everyone has felt the
jittery side effects of too much caffeine at one time or another. Yerbe mate, in contrast,
gives your brain a boost without making you nervous. Interestingly, it has been shown to
improve mood and concentration, reduce anxiety, prevent mental fatigue, and prolong the
effects of thermogenesis (i.e., fat burning)... along with a multitude of other compelling
benefits.
How it works
There are 196 chemicals in yerba mate that become active in the body once consumed—including B
vitamins; Vitamins A, C, and E; and the minerals calcium, magnesium, iron, potassium, and selenium.
And mate has 11 polyphenols, which are powerful antioxidants. But the most important chemical in mate
is "mateine." Mateine is a xanthine alkaloid. You might have heard of other xanthines, such as
caffeine, theophylline, and theobromine. Strikingly, mateine appears to possess the best combination
of xanthine properties. Like other xanthines, it mildly arouses the central nervous system, but unlike
other stimulants, it doesn't appear to be addicting, nor does it produce unwanted side effects such
as insomnia or nervousness. Interestingly, it actually works as a tonic for the central nervous
system, calming the body and mind, leaving you feeling alert and sharp.
The result of the chemical combination in mate is then responsible for its substantial increase
in energy and fat burning. Mate appears to help support long-term energy by maintaining energy
production with oxygen for longer periods of time, which burns more calories, improves heart
efficiency, and delays buildup of endurance, robbing waste products, such as lactic acid that
are created by anaerobic glycolysis (energy production without oxygen). One indicator that it
is working to burn more fat is a drop in something called the respiratory quotient (RQ), which
indicates a rise in the proportion of fat being oxidized or burned in the body.
What does the science say?
"Hot off the press": Dr. Torben Andersen undertook a study at Charlottenlund Medical Centre in
Denmark with 44 healthy overweight patients using an herbal combination of guarana and another two
herbs, yerba mate and Damiana. Dr. Andersen's results were quite positive: those taking the herbal
combination for 45 days lost an average of 5 kg (or about 11 lbs). This was a significant
difference compared to the placebo group, which lost only an average of 0.45 kg (or about one pound).
Also noteworthy, the herbal combination delayed gastric emptying by 20 minutes, which means a
longer feeling of fullness after eating a meal.
How to take it
Research indicates the intake of yerba mate to be most effective at 500 to 1,500 mg daily, two to three
times evenly throughout the day, before meals and/or exercise. Recent theory: Mate may be most effective
for promoting fat loss if one serving is taken upon rising, first thing in the morning, especially
before cardiovascular exercise. To get the full report, download your FREE
Fat-Burners eBook here.
Fat Burner #4—EPHEDRA
What is it?
Ephedra, or ma huang (its interchangeable herbal name), is an ancient Chinese herbal form of the
powerful stimulant ephedrine. Recently, it has grown in popularity—both good and bad—throughout
the world, as a most revered weight-loss aid because it has been shown in numerous studies to
temporarily suppress appetite, is a natural stimulant, and acts as a thermogenic—burning more
calories, faster. Yet, because of the media's recent attention on its "higher than normal" rate
of Adverse Event reports to the FDA, ephedra may be best known for its potential negative side
effects.
How it works
Imagine you're crossing the street and a speeding car almost hits you. Within seconds, you begin
to sweat, your heart pounds, and you feel almost out of breath. This is known as the "fight-or-flight"
response. Well, consuming the herb ephedra (or ma huang) appears to produce a similar
result—due to increased adrenaline and central nervous system stimulation
of beta-1,2 receptors. In essence, it increases blood pressure and heart rate, makes you sweat,
and increases blood flow to the heart, brain, and muscles. Only it may last quite a bit longer
than your body's immediate response to avoiding a car—more like 20 to 30 minutes. This internal act,
in turn, raises the body's core temperature—a process called thermogenesis—and helps break down (burn)
fat cells.
What does the science say?
Ephedra has been shown in numerous studies to be an effective weight-loss aid (as a thermogenic
and appetite suppressant). Plus, research indicates it can temporarily enhance energy levels.
Until recently, ma huang was considered the most effective natural thermogenic on the market.
However, you should know that since 1994, the FDA has received and investigated over 800 reports
of Adverse Events (i.e., reactions) associated with products with ephedra (or ma huang). Reports
that range from elevated blood pressure, muscle disturbances, insomnia, dry mouth, heart
palpitations, nervousness, strokes, and even death.
Due to these reports, the FDA prompted a considerable study on ephedra, entitled "Adverse
Cardiovascular and Central Nervous System Events Associated with Dietary Supplements Containing
Ephedra Alkaloids." The conclusion of the study, which was published in December of 2000, said
"...the occurrence of events that caused permanent disability and death, we conclude that dietary
supplements that contain ephedra alkaloids pose a serious health risk..." It's our take then,
these findings indicate the need for a better understanding of individual susceptibility to the
adverse effects of ephedra, and it should be used with extreme caution or avoided altogether as
a fat-loss supplement.
How to take it
For instant "energy" as a performance stimulant or to enhance the body's ability to burn fat,
studies support taking from 12.5 to 25 mg of ephedrine two to three times daily. When using the herbal
ma huang or ephedra extract (standardized for eight percent ephedrine alkaloids), 150 to 300 mg two to
three times per day is reportedly effective. To get the full report, download your
FREE Fat-Burners eBook here.
Important Notice: Read all warnings before supplementing
with ephedra. It's highly likely you'll find there are more possible (unwanted) side effects
listed on the warning label than you bargained for.
Fat Burner #5—7-KETO™
What is it?
This powerful micronutrient is the product of years of intense research—7-Keto is a new breed of
supplement—one engineered for specific results. Its ability to promote safe fat loss without the
"buzz" of stimulants is a breakthrough in weight-loss supplements and is creating quite a stir in
both the scientific arena and in the real world. Recently developed and awarded five patents,
7-Keto was discovered by Dr. Henry Lardy, who spent the last 10 years examining over 150
metabolites in hopes of finding a nutrient that would impart the positive benefits in promoting
thermogenesis—increasing the body's metabolism (to burn more calories). What Dr. Lardy has
discovered is suggested by many researchers to be the most potent thermogenic enhancer available
in aiding safe, effective fat loss... and for good reason.
How it works
Search the shelves at your local health-food store, and you'll find them lined with today's more
popular weight-loss products that claim to "boost" metabolic rate. However, look a little closer
at the label, and you'll discover the substances contained in these formulas are nothing more
than stimulant-based nutrients (e.g., ephedra, ma huang, Sida cordifolia, etc.), which primarily
work by suppressing the appetite and cause weight loss through limiting the urge to eat, with
only a limited ability to increase the body's metabolic rate (its ability to burn calories).
7-Keto is quite different in its mechanism of action in the body. It works by helping to increase
the body's metabolic rate by way of the thyroid (T3) gland. A much safer approach to fat loss than
stimulants. What most people don't realize is that after the age of about 25, our metabolisms (the
rate our bodies burn calories) begin to slow, and often, no matter how hard we resist, our bodies
insist on burning less and less calories. The inevitable response is to store the "unburned"
calories as fat, and thus, we have a harder time keeping unwanted weight off. This is where
7-Keto can play a vital role in weight reduction and particularly in fat loss—by "shifting"
the metabolic rate, so the body is able to increase fat metabolism, even while resting.
What does the science say?
A new peer-reviewed clinical trial reveals a significant reduction in both bodyweight and bodyfat
in overweight adults by positively impacting thyroid functioning: in a double-blind,
placebo-controlled study, 100 mg of 7-Keto taken twice daily for eight weeks was shown to increase
levels of the thyroid hormone T3 (or triiodothyronine) by an astounding, yet safe (within the
normal range) 17.88%. The placebo group, by comparison, experienced an increase of only 2.75%.
This is significant because T3 is not only the most active thyroid hormone but also has the
greatest effect on metabolic rate.
These results for fat loss faired positively as well: over the eight weeks, the 7-Keto group
lost a significant amount of bodyweight compared to the placebo group. In fact, the 7-Keto
group lost three times more fat than the placebo group (6.34 lbs vs. 2.13 lbs). Plus, bodyfat
percentages decreased by 1.8% for the 7-Keto group, and the placebo group experienced only
a .57% loss.
How to take it
Interestingly, because of the high cost to produce 7-Keto, most supplement companies suggest
taking 25 to 50 mg per day. However, according to the most recent studies, 100 mg of 7-Keto
taken twice daily (for 200 mg per day) was found to be most effective for weight loss.
Evidence shows that taking from 100 to 200 mg per day can impart positive effects on fat
loss. To get the full report, download your FREE Fat-Burners eBook
here.
Important Tip: 7-Keto is a patented supplement, so watch out... if
you come across a product that is supposed to have real 7-Keto in it, and it doesn't have the
U.S. patent number 5,296,481 (for weight loss) on the label, don't buy it! It's a counterfeit.
A very good source of 7-Keto may be found in the fat-burner product called Lean System 7 here.
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Fat-Loss Facts
Fat Burner #1—CITRUS AURANTIUM
