Weight Loss

When it comes to weight loss it’s about more than just calories in calories out. Adequate movement, nutrition, stress management, and detoxification are all important factors to consider to promote healthy weight balance. Stubborn weight gain is a sign of imbalance in the body that needs to be addressed first and foremost by these fundamental factors. However, there are many supplements that can help support the body to find balance, fill in any gaps, and also promote fat burning.

Top Vitasave Supplements for Weight loss

L-Carnitine

This natural compound found in the body is also found in supplement form and has been used for years to enhance weight loss. It works by mobilizing free fatty acid stores from visceral tissue and moving them into the mitochondria where they can be broken down and used for energy. L-Carnitine is synthesized in the body from the amino acids methionine and lysine, but you will also need sufficient vitamin C as well to make Carnitine. Meat and fish can also provide small amounts of L-Carnitine. 

Up to 98% of the L-Carnitine found in the body is stored in muscle cells. Taking L-Carnitine in supplement form may support weight loss efforts in combination with an effective exercise routine and a balanced diet (1). 

Medium Chain Triglycerides are becoming a popular addition to the Western Diet to increase satiety and metabolism as well as improve aerobic endurance. MCTs are naturally occurring in coconut and have been shown to increase the metabolic rate by increasing ketone production in the body and enhancing fat oxidation. 

Unlike other fats, MCTs are burned immediately as fuel instead of getting stored as fat. Coconut and MCT can also support gut health due to its antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties which help to balance healthy flora. Having a healthy balance of good bacteria can help to support weight loss by reducing inflammation, increasing nutrient absorption and satiety, decreasing hunger, and balancing blood sugar.

MCT can be obtained in food such as coconut, grass-fed dairy products, and palm oil. You can find MCT as a supplement in oil or powder form. Always start with a low dose and gradually build up to decrease the risk of any digestive upset. 

CLA 

Conjugated Linoleic Acid is a naturally occurring fatty acid that can be found in animal products. Many people take CLA as a supplement for its fat-burning effects. 

Results are mixed in humans, however, CLA is claimed to stop fat cells from increasing in size and increasing fat burning particularly in animal studies. CLA may help to increase lean muscle mass while decreasing body fat with or without exercise. 

Always choose a grass-fed source of CLA whether you are supplementing or choosing to get your CLA from your diet.

Garcinia Cambogia 

A popular weight loss supplement derived from a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia and India, Garcinia Cambogia may help individuals lose weight and belly fat (2). 

Garcinia Cambogia is a rich source of hydroxycitric acid (HCA), a compound shown to inhibit citrate lyase, an enzyme responsible for the conversion of carbohydrates into fat. HCA helps prevent new body fat formation and inhibits the synthesis of fatty acids, cholesterol, and triglycerides.

Garcinia Cambogia has also been shown to help reduce appetite, resulting in decreased caloric intake, while increasing serotonin in the brain. Low levels of serotonin affect appetite control and eating behaviors.

This fruit is sometimes used for cooking in traditional cultures however it is commonly taken as a supplement in Western countries. 

Green tea extract 

Green tea has been shown to support weight loss via various mechanisms.

The caffeine in green tea, though lower than coffee, can provide fat-burning effects and boost exercise performance. 

Due to its high amounts of antioxidants, green tea can reduce oxidative stress and support the body in detoxification. It is high in the antioxidant epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) which can help to boost metabolism by supporting the breakdown of fat (3).

The effects of green tea on weight loss and fat burning are said to be more pronounced when used in combination with exercise.  

Green tea can be consumed as a tea however for more therapeutic effects large doses need to be consumed therefore supplement form is recommended.

Fiber 

Fiber is a fat-fighting food because it doesn't get digested by us but rather our gut bacteria. This means that fiber doesn't provide energy for your body but your body will use energy to process the fiber and feed your microbiome. Having a healthy balance of good to bad bacteria is essential for a healthy weight and overall health.

In addition to providing fuel for your good gut bacteria, fiber increases satiety, speeds up transit time, and helps to keep blood sugar stable. Fiber also helps to process excess estrogen in the body, which can contribute to weight gain in men and women.

Adults are recommended to consume about 30-50 grams of fiber per day. Rich sources of fiber include flaxseeds, psyllium husks, oats, barley, chia seeds, beans, legumes, leafy greens, root vegetables, and whole grains. You can also take fiber in supplement form. Though fiber supplements can result in moderate weight loss we recommend focusing on getting most of your fiber through your diet. 

Protein Powder with Greens 

Protein is naturally satiating meaning you are less likely to feel hungry if you consume sufficient protein throughout the day. For many people, especially highly active individuals this can be tricky. A quality protein powder can be an effective supplement to boost protein levels. 

Protein is also essential for building lean muscle mass. Muscle is metabolically active meaning it continues to burn energy even at rest. This also supports blood sugar control and reduces the likelihood of experiencing cravings which can sabotage weight loss goals. 

By adding greens to your protein powder you are boosting your intake of metabolic boosting nutrients and anti-inflammatory compounds. You can also find supplements combining protein and greens to make your morning shake or smoothie more convenient.