Some weight loss supplements like ephedra or fen-fen have given the whole dietary aid industry a bad name but the fact of the matter is that some supplements can help with your weight loss goals. What the marketing and advertising don’t really say is that these weight loss supplements will only work to the best of their ability when paired with a healthy balanced diet and exercise.

Weight loss supplements alone do not help you lose excess pounds and must only be used as a tool in your weight-busting arsenal. Some work to suppress your appetite while others work to block the absorption of dietary fat or even to boost your metabolism for a higher calorie burn. You should really evaluate your needs to decide which weight loss supplements would work best for your body.

Hoodia

Hoodia weight loss supplements hit the market and took up the market share that ephedra lost out on when they were found to be hazardous to your health. Hoodia comes from an African succulent plant, which was often consumed by African Bushmen to stave off hunger and thirst. Obviously, the application of Hoodia is readily apparent as an appetite suppressant but there have been no sufficient research to uphold the effects of this supplement.

Chitosan

The outer shells of shrimp, crab and lobster are made from a substance called chitosan, which is also used in many weight loss supplements. Chitosan is primarily taken for its blocking properties when it comes to the body’s absorption of dietary fat intake. It is a relatively safe supplement but experts disagree as to exactly how well it works as a weight loss supplement.

Chromium

Chromium is a component of the hormone insulin and works to help break down glucose in the body. Chromium containing weight loss supplements work to build muscle while reducing your overall body fat. Again there is some speculation as to how chromium really works, but rest assured that it is relatively safe.

They Don't Work The Same For All Users

There are many types of weight loss supplements that seem to have mixed results and can therefore not be totally substantiated as a true weight loss tool. There are two common reasons why this may be true: a healthy diet and exercise are not being used in conjunction with taking weight loss supplements and everyone’s body chemistry is different.

It is the body chemistry that you cannot really do anything about but this reason makes sense and could be the reason why some weight loss supplements makes one person’s heart race, as a side effect while another person of a similar weight and build is perfectly fine. Unfortunately, the only way to know if a supplement is right for you is to try it for a period of time and monitor your personal results.

Keep in mind too that weight loss supplements are not intended for extended use but rather as an aid to get your diet and exercise plan kick started. In addition, they are best for helping you break through some weight loss plateaus. Of course, as with anything else you put into your body, you will want to consult with your doctor before starting any weight loss supplement regime.