Best Weight Loss Ingredients for 2014

We searched high and low for the best weight loss ingredients to usher in the New Year. We chose a few classic weight loss supplements and a few up-and-comers.

For those looking for the next big thing, this list is a great intro to diet trends and solid science. Read on to find our picks for the best weight loss ingredients for 2014.

CLA (Conjugated Linoleic Acid) 

This naturally-occurring fatty acid was featured on the Dr. Oz show more than once in 2013. CLA influences enzymes that grow fat cells, preventing them from expanding.

Participants in a study who took CLA for a year experienced 4.3% greater lean body mass than those given a placebo. They also experienced reduced body fat. Participants didn’t change their diet or exercise habits, which makes CLA’s results all the more impressive. [1]

Caffeine 

This ingredient is commonly used in some of the most popular weight loss supplements. From energy drinks to diet pills, caffeine is a go-to ingredient for its thermogenic properties.

In a study, scientists gave participants 400 mg caffeine (about as much caffeine as is in four cups of coffee). These participants experienced increased energy expenditure and greater fat burning than those who took lower caffeine doses. [2]

Yacon Syrup 

Relatively new to the supplement scene, yacon syrup shows promising results in scientific studies. The syrup, extracted from South American yacon roots, supports healthy digestion and regulates blood sugar.

In one study, overweight women were given yacon syrup for 120 days. The women experienced decreased body weight, slimmer waists, and lower body mass index. They also felt fuller after meals and had steadier blood sugar levels throughout the day. [3]

Green Coffee Bean Extract 

This extract comes from raw unroasted coffee beans. Unlike roasted coffee, green coffee extract is rich in chlorogenic acid, which lowers glucose absorption and limits fat metabolism. [4]

Study participants given green coffee bean experienced more weight loss than those who took no supplements. Both groups had otherwise identical diet and exercise regimens. Participants lost as much as 20 pounds in 12 weeks. [5]

Capsaicin 

Found in spicy peppers, capsaicin burns calories and raises metabolism. You can consume capsaicin in whole peppers, but to those sensitive to spice, supplements are a good option.

According to a study performed by UCLA, low-calorie diets lower metabolic rates between 10% and 15%. Exercise, unfortunately, does not raise metabolism. Participants in the study who consumed capsaicin burned an extra 80 calories per day. [6]

Green Tea 

Green tea is a staple in any diet guru’s supplement cabinet. The experts at Web-MD rave over its health benefits; green tea promotes longevity, contains antioxidants, and treats stomach disorders.

Additionally, green tea has exceptional weight loss Advantages. In studies, the antioxidants, called catechins, burned fat and increased energy expenditure. Participants in studies reduced body fat, which resulted in smaller waist circumference and lower body mass index. [7][8]

Shop supplements with green tea extract here.

Irvingia Gabonensis 

We couldn’t leave African Mango off our list of best weight loss ingredients. Although Africans have incorporated it into their diet for generations, this newly studied superfood has impressive weight loss properties.

Scientific studies showed participants who consumed irvingia gabonensis with meals improved body fat ratios, shrunk waist circumferences, and reduced blood glucose levels. [9]

Keep in mind, these best weight loss ingredients for 2014 won’t provide long-term results without combining them with a healthy diet and regular exercise. Supplements are designed to complement  healthy lifestyle, will not alter them completely.

References 

[1] “Conjugated linoleic acid supplementation for 1 y reduces body fat mass in healthy overweight humans.” The American journal of clinical nutrition. Jun 2004; 79(6):1118-25. Available from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15159244

[2] American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 51.5 (1990): 759-767. Available from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2333832

[3] “Yacon syrup: beneficial effects on obesity and insulin resistance in humans.” Clinical Nutrition. Apr 2009; 28(2):182-7. Available from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19254816

[4]  Available from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17990295

[5] From: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3267522/

[6] WebMD. Available from: http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/features/health-benefits-of-peppers

[7] Available from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17557985

[8] Available from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18006026

[9] Available from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3010674/