In our size-obsessed culture, weight loss is big business. Americans spend more than $2 billion a year on weight-loss pills. But do these so-called “fat burner” supplements work? And more importantly — are they safe?

“Proceed with caution,” warns registered dietitian Melissa Matteo, RD. To better understand fat burners, Matteo tells us if they work, what’s in them and some healthier and safer alternatives.

More importantly, though, fat burners aren’t regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). That means manufacturers can make all sorts of claims about their products, even if they have no evidence to back them up. “Because the FDA doesn’t regulate them, we don’t really know their effectiveness,” Matteo cautions.

There are dozens of ingredients in weight-loss supplements, including herbal ingredients and other compounds. Some of the more common ingredients are. Caffeine stimulates your nervous system and might help burn calories. But supplements can contain a lot more caffeine than coffee, tea, chocolate or other natural sources. Too much caffeine can cause nervousness, jitteriness, insomnia — and even a dangerously high heart rate.

Many fat burners contain extracts made from green tea. This ingredient might help burn calories and may reduce the amount of fat you absorb from food. “But the amount of weight loss isn’t that significant,” Matteo says. “You’d probably burn more calories by taking a brisk walk each day.”

This compound helps with your metabolism and gives you energy. It’s found in many types of meat and dairy products, and your liver and kidneys make it naturally. But research on its weight-loss benefits is mixed. Too much carnitine can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and a fishy body odor.

This plant compound comes from the bark of an evergreen tree. It’s found in many weight-loss supplements, but there’s very little research on it. What’s more, it can be dangerous. Yohimbe can cause headaches, anxiety, agitation and increased blood pressure. At high doses, it can even cause heart problems and kidney failure.

If you’re considering these supplements, talk it over with your doctor or a pharmacist first. “Patients aren’t always forthcoming about what supplements they’re taking. But ingredients in fat burners can interact with medications and cause serious problems, so it’s important to make sure your doctor is aware,” Matteo says. Click here to find out more https://www.orlandomagazine.com/best-fa ... n-in-2022/

To avoid excessive doses and possible side effects, Matteo advises steering clear of supplements containing caffeine or green tea extract. Instead, enjoy a couple of cups of brewed coffee or green tea to reap the possible benefits. “Just avoid adding a lot of cream and sugar, especially if your goal is to lose weight,” she adds.