14 Best Weight Loss Supplements for Men and Women

Many people want to lose weight, especially with today’s sedentary lifestyles and tempting, calorie-packed foods making it hard to stay healthy. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests that achieving healthy weight loss involves eating nutritious foods, staying active, and managing stress. Despite these recommendations, some people turn to weight loss supplements for an extra boost.

However, a 2022 review in the AMA Journal of Ethics found that many over-the-counter supplements lack solid clinical studies to prove they work. Some may even be ineffective or unsafe.

The good news is that, along with a healthy diet and exercise, certain vitamins and nutrients in supplement form may support healthy weight loss. We have tested 25 options in our lab and come up with 14 best weight loss supplements.

14 Best Weight Loss Supplements

1. PhenQ

PhenQ is a weight loss supplement designed to help people shed pounds. It contains a blend of natural ingredients, including caffeine, fiber from nopal cactus, chromium picolinate, and others. These ingredients work together to boost metabolism, reduce cravings, and improve emotional well-being. PhenQ aims to offer a holistic approach to weight management, addressing both physical and emotional aspects of losing weight.

Pros:

1. PhenQ contains natural components that have potential benefits for weight loss.
2. It aims to support emotional well-being, not just physical aspects.
3. Offers a 60-day money-back guarantee for risk-free trial.
4. Suitable for men, women, vegans, and vegetarians.

Cons:

1. It should be used in conjunction with a balanced diet and exercise.
2. Some ingredients may cause side effects in sensitive individuals.
3. Success is not guaranteed, and results can differ from person to person.

2. Leanbean

Leanbean is a women-specific weight loss supplement designed to aid in weight loss journeys. It stands out for using clinically proven, natural ingredients that prioritize safety and effectiveness.

Key ingredients include:

• Glucomannan for curbing appetite.
• Choline for fat metabolism.
• Green coffee for boosting metabolism.
• Acai berry for antioxidants.

It comes in 180 capsules per bottle, to be taken in three daily doses, offering a convenient and sustainable approach to weight loss.

Pros:

1. Leanbean uses all-natural, clinically proven ingredients.

2. Suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

3. Free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.

4. Offers a free 3-day diet plan for overall wellness.

5. Many women report noticeable changes in body weight within a week.

Cons:

1. Not every user may experience the same results.

3. Instant Knockout Cut

Instant Knockout Cut is a supplement designed for weight loss and muscle toning, primarily targeted at athletes and fitness enthusiasts. It achieves its goals through a carefully selected blend of natural ingredients, which includes green tea, chromium picolinate, caffeine, glucomannan, vitamin B6, and zinc. These ingredients work together to promote weight loss, enhance muscle definition, and offer additional benefits such as increased energy levels, reduced appetite, and improved endurance.

Pros:

1. Instant Knockout Cut uses natural and vegan-friendly ingredients, ensuring a safer and healthier approach to weight loss and muscle toning.

2. All ingredients undergo clinical testing, guaranteeing both safety and quality.

3. Users report experiencing higher energy levels, which can aid in workouts and daily activities.

4. The supplement helps curb appetite, making it easier to control calorie intake.

5. Improved endurance benefits athletes looking to optimize their performance.

6. The thermogenic ingredients not only burn fat but also support healthy muscle growth.

Cons:

1. Some users may find the need to take four daily doses a bit inconvenient.

2. As with any supplement, the effectiveness of Instant Knockout Cut can differ from person to person.

3. The cost of purchasing this supplement can be a consideration for some users.

4. PhenGold

PhenGold is a weight loss supplement designed to help people reach their weight loss goals. It contains a mix of clinically-tested ingredients, including green tea extract, caffeine anhydrous, cayenne pepper powder, L-Tyrosine, and Rhodiola Rosea. Users are instructed to take three daily doses, about 20 minutes before meals.

PhenGold aims to boost metabolism, curb cravings, and increase energy and motivation for sustainable weight loss. It caters to a wide audience, being vegan and allergen-friendly, and is manufactured in FDA-registered facilities with high-quality standards. The product is intended to deliver weight loss results without the jittery or crash-like side effects often associated with other supplements. It offers a 100-day return policy to ensure customer satisfaction.

Pros:

• Clinically-tested ingredients.
• Vegan and allergen-friendly.
• Manufactured in FDA-registered facilities.
• Aims to boost metabolism and curb cravings.
• Emphasizes sustainability and avoids jittery side effects.
• 100-day return policy for customer satisfaction.

Cons:

• Individual results may vary.
• Effectiveness depends on diet and exercise.

5. PrimeShred

PrimeShred is a weight loss supplement designed for those looking to shed excess pounds effectively and safely. It achieves this through a blend of natural ingredients, including vitamins, green tea extract, caffeine anhydrous, DMAE, amino acids, and botanicals.

Pros:

• High potency and effectiveness in fat burning.
• Convenient daily dosage with 90-count bottles.
• Offers an energy boost and appetite suppression.
• Supports healthy muscle growth.
• Committed to natural ingredients, free from artificial additives.

Cons:

• Effectiveness may vary from person to person.
• Individual results may differ.
• Not a substitute for a balanced diet and exercise.

6. Transparent Labs LEAN

Transparent Labs LEAN is a pre-workout supplement designed to support weight loss goals. It works by providing energy, focus, and metabolic support during workouts. Here’s how it works:

• Endurance Boost: Contains citrulline malate and beta-alanine to enhance endurance and reduce workout fatigue, even on calorie-deficient diets.

• Muscle Pumps: Betaine improves blood flow and muscle pumps, aiding in better exercise performance.

• Energy and Focus: With 200mg of caffeine and l-theanine, it provides an energy boost while improving mental focus during training.

• Fat-Burning Support: Includes acetyl-l-carnitine, chromium picolinate, and zinc to potentially enhance fat burning and boost metabolism.

Pros:

• Boosts endurance and reduces workout fatigue.

• Enhances muscle pumps and exercise performance.

• Provides an energy boost and improves mental focus.

• May support fat burning and thyroid function.

• Available in various flavors to suit different preferences.

Cons:

• Some users may experience a tingling sensation due to beta-alanine.

• Contains 200mg of caffeine, so caution is needed for caffeine-sensitive individuals.

7. Momentous Grass-Fed Whey Protein

Momentous Grass-Fed Whey Protein is a top-quality protein supplement designed to support weight loss and muscle maintenance. It provides 20 grams of protein per serving from grass-fed cows, ensuring high nutrient quality. This supplement is low in calories (only 100 calories per serving) and comes in flavors like vanilla and chocolate. It complements your diet by increasing protein intake, aiding muscle recovery and maintenance during exercise, and it’s safe for athletes as it’s NSF Certified.

Pros:

• High-quality protein from grass-fed cows.
• Low calorie content for calorie-conscious individuals (100 calories per serving).
• Third-party tested and NSF Certified safe for sport.
• Enjoyable flavors (vanilla and chocolate).
• Supports muscle recovery and maintenance.
• Suitable for weight loss and exercise regimens.

Cons:

• Higher price compared to some other protein powders.
• Not intended as a meal replacement, which may not suit everyone’s needs.

8. KOS Greens Powder

KOS Greens Powder is a nutritional supplement designed to aid in weight loss and overall health. It achieves this by providing essential nutrients with a low-calorie profile. Key components include superfoods like spirulina, chlorella, and wheatgrass juice powder, known for their vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Prebiotic fiber and acacia gum support digestion and nutrient absorption, crucial for efficient weight loss.

Pros:

1. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from superfoods.
2. Suitable for weight loss without adding excess calories.
3. Prebiotic fiber and acacia gum aid in digestion.
4. Competitively priced compared to similar products.

Cons:

1. Specific ingredient amounts aren’t disclosed.
2. May not dissolve easily in water bottles; requires extra effort for optimal mixing.

9. Transparent Labs Fat Burner

Transparent Labs Fat Burner is a weight loss supplement designed to aid in fitness and weight management. It achieves this by combining various ingredients that target different aspects of weight loss:

• Green Tea Extract (300mg): Boosts metabolism and fat oxidation.
• Red Pepper Fruit Extract: Increases thermogenesis for calorie burning.
• BioPerine (Black Pepper Extract): Enhances ingredient absorption.
• L-Theanine: Reduces stress and aids in appetite control.
• Natural Caffeine (125mg): Provides quick energy and raises metabolism.

Pros:

• Comprehensive approach to weight loss.
• Ingredients like green tea and red pepper extract are well-researched for their effectiveness.
• BioPerine enhances ingredient absorption, potentially making the supplement more effective.
• L-Theanine helps with appetite control and stress reduction.
• Caffeine offers a quick energy boost.

Cons:

• Contains caffeine, which may be a concern for caffeine-sensitive individuals.
• Individual responses to supplements may vary, so it’s essential to monitor tolerance.

10. Onnit Gut Health with Probiotics

Onnit Gut Health with Probiotics is a supplement designed to improve digestive health and support weight loss efforts. It contains digestive enzymes (amylase, lipase, and maltase) to aid in breaking down food for better nutrient absorption. It also features various probiotic strains (e.g., lactobacillus acidophilus DDS-1) to maintain a healthy gut balance and organic prebiotics (Jerusalem artichoke and dandelion root) to nourish probiotics.

Pros:

• Enhances digestion and nutrient absorption.
• Supports a healthy gut balance with probiotics.
• Contains organic prebiotics for probiotic nourishment.

Cons:

• Relatively expensive per serving.
• Requires swallowing seven capsules in one serving, which may not be convenient for everyone.

11. Momentous Acetyl L-Carnitine

Momentous Acetyl L-Carnitine is a dietary supplement containing 500mg of pure Acetyl L-Carnitine (ALCAR) per serving. ALCAR is an amino acid derivative that assists in converting stored fat into energy, aiding fat metabolism. It’s available in convenient capsule form, making it easy to incorporate into daily routines, and users can adjust their dosage with medical guidance for personalized intake.

Pros:

1. Provides a substantial 500mg dose of pure ALCAR per serving.
2. ALCAR assists in converting stored fat into usable energy, potentially aiding in weight loss and fitness.
3. Easy-to-take capsule form eliminates taste and texture issues.
4. A pure and straightforward formula without unnecessary ingredients.
5. A budget-friendly option for those seeking fat loss and workout recovery support.

Cons:

1. Effectiveness may vary among individuals.
2. Supplements work best in conjunction with a balanced diet and exercise.

12. Transparent Labs Vitamin D3 + K2

Transparent Labs Vitamin D3 + K2 is a dietary supplement designed to support overall health, particularly when sunlight exposure is limited. It combines two essential vitamins:

• Vitamin D3: Supports bone health, the immune system, and mood regulation. It may also have a role in reducing body fat. Each serving provides 5,000 IU of vitamin D3, aligning with recommended daily intake.
• Vitamin K2: Aids in regulating calcium metabolism, preventing calcium buildup in arteries and soft tissues, reducing the risk of heart disease.

These vitamins work together synergistically to promote well-being and influence hormonal and metabolic processes, potentially supporting weight management efforts.

Pros:

1. Provides a reliable way to meet vitamin D and K2 needs, especially for those with limited sun exposure.
2. The combination of vitamins D3 and K2 enhances their effectiveness in promoting bone and cardiovascular health.
3. Adequate vitamin D levels may play a role in weight management.
4. The 5,000 IU of vitamin D3 in each serving is in line with scientific recommendations.

Cons:

1. Contains vitamin D3 from animal sources, making it unsuitable for strict vegans.
2. The suitability of this supplement varies depending on individual health needs

13. Swolverine Krill Oil

Swolverine Krill Oil is a dietary supplement designed to support weight loss and overall health. It contains omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA and DHA, derived from krill, a type of small crustacean. These fatty acids are known for their heart health benefits and potential appetite suppression for weight loss.

The supplement also includes astaxanthin, a potent antioxidant that protects cells from damage, supports cellular health, and enhances cognitive function during weight loss efforts. It comes in capsule form for convenience.

Pros:

1. Swolverine Krill Oil provides a significant dose of omega-3 fatty acids, aiding heart health and reducing inflammation.

2. The supplement includes astaxanthin, a powerful antioxidant that supports cellular health and cognitive function.

3. Easy-to-take capsules eliminate the need for dealing with unpleasant tastes or liquids.

Cons:

1. Contains gelatin, making it unsuitable for pescatarians.

2. Results may vary from person to person; consult a healthcare professional before use.

14. Swolverine Therm

Swolverine Therm is a fat burner supplement designed to aid in weight loss. It works by combining natural ingredients to boost metabolism, promote fat burning, and provide sustained energy levels.

Pros:

1. Swolverine Therm uses natural ingredients like yerba mate, cocoa extract, and guarana for a safe approach to weight loss.

2. It provides an energy boost, making it suitable for intense workouts during calorie-deficient phases.

3. The formula includes cayenne pepper, forskolin, and garcinia cambogia, which can help boost metabolism and burn fat.

4. Contains acetyl l-carnitine, an amino acid known for enhancing fat metabolism and post-workout recovery.

5. It’s affordable and offers a cost-effective option for weight management.

Cons:

1. Some users may experience side effects like sleep disturbances due to the stimulant content, especially if sensitive to caffeine or stimulants.

2. It’s unsuitable for those with shellfish allergies due to its shellfish content.

3. Should be used as part of a balanced diet and exercise routine, not as a sole method for weight loss.

What Are Weight Loss Supplements?

Weight loss supplements are products in the form of pills, powders, or liquids that aid weight loss by various means, like boosting metabolism, increasing fat burning, and reducing hunger. They can also support overall health and energy levels during weight loss efforts. These supplements contain a mix of ingredients, including herbs and minerals.

It’s important to distinguish between over-the-counter weight loss supplements and prescription anti-obesity medications. Prescription medications undergo strict testing for safety and efficacy in clinical trials and are a part of a comprehensive obesity treatment plan, while over-the-counter supplements are less regulated.

How Do Weight Loss Supplements Work?

Weight loss supplements work by speeding up your metabolism, increasing calorie burn, and reducing cravings for unhealthy foods. They use natural ingredients like caffeine, green tea extract, and botanicals to achieve this. These components support your metabolism, promote weight loss, and fast fat burning. They are often combined with essential vitamins and minerals to keep you healthy and energized.

Each supplement may have a different approach, focusing on boosting energy or curbing appetite. Keep in mind that some supplements may be designed for specific genders and might be less effective for women. Overall, these supplements aim to help you reach your weight goals more efficiently by using safe ingredients to support your body’s natural weight loss functions.

How To Choose The Best Weight Loss Supplement?

Selecting the perfect weight loss supplement is a bit like finding the right multivitamin or a top-notch gut health product—it requires some thought. With many options available, each with its own ingredients and goals, making sure your efforts to get in shape aren’t wasted is crucial.

1. Consider Your Goals

Beyond just losing weight, think about what else you want to achieve. Whether it’s building muscle, managing your BMI, or improving overall health, different supplements target various concerns. For example, if you struggle with cravings, a supplement with glucomannan might be suitable. If you need energy for workouts, caffeine or green tea supplements could be better.

2. Dosing Schedule

Similar to gut health supplements, weight loss pills come in different quantities and dosing schedules. Consider your lifestyle—busy individuals might prefer a once-a-day supplement taken with a meal, usually found in 60 or 90-count bottles. If you can manage more frequent dosing, you’ll have more options, but make sure it fits your routine for the best results.

3. Quality Matters

Only go for high-quality products. Choose weight loss supplements made with non-GMO ingredients, produced in FDA-registered facilities, and following strict cGMP quality standards. This ensures you get the best for weight loss without compromising safety, efficacy, or results.

Benefits of Weight Loss Supplements

Weight loss supplements can be a game-changer, especially for those who’ve faced setbacks in their weight loss journey. If you’ve found yourself starting diets and workouts with enthusiasm only to hit a roadblock and lose steam, these supplements offer a helping hand.

1. Energy Boost

Weight loss supplements provide an extra dose of energy, helping you stay motivated throughout your fitness journey. This added vitality can be a game-changer when the going gets tough.

2. Metabolism Kickstart

Need to shed those pounds faster? These supplements can give your metabolism a boost, making your body a more efficient fat-burning machine. Say goodbye to frustrating plateaus!

3. Craving Control

Sticking to a diet can be tough, especially when cravings kick in. Weight loss supplements can help curb those cravings, making it easier to resist the temptation of unhealthy snacks.

4. Overall Health Support

Changing your lifestyle involves more than just shedding pounds—it’s about overall health. Many weight loss supplements come packed with goodies like vitamin B, DHAE, L-Carnitine, and green tea extract. These ingredients bring added perks, including better heart health, improved brain function, reduced inflammation, and a more balanced mood.

The Most Effective Weight Loss Ingredients

Check out these powerhouse ingredients that have proven their effectiveness:

1. Green Tea Extract:

• What it does: Boosts thermogenesis, especially when combined with exercise and a healthy lifestyle.
• Bonus points: Improves glucose tolerance and helps oxidize fat.

2. Caffeine:

• What it does: Studies show that caffeine can be a weight loss ally, particularly when paired with a healthy diet and exercise.
• Extra perks: Speeds up your metabolism, making your workouts more effective.

3. Glucomannan:

• What it is: Don’t let the tricky name scare you; it’s derived from plants with a long history in Chinese medicine.
• How it helps: Effective in larger quantities and works well with a calorie-restrictive diet.

How Effective Are Supplements for Weight Loss?

When it comes to the effectiveness of weight loss supplements, the picture is a bit mixed, and it’s important to be discerning. According to a 2020 review in Nutrients, many studies on the topic are of low quality. The National Institutes of Health’s Office on Dietary Supplements also notes the scarcity of quality research on over-the-counter weight loss supplements. Furthermore, existing research often relies on limited data from animal studies instead of comprehensive human trials.

The organization emphasizes on its website, “In almost all cases, additional research is needed to fully understand the safety and/or efficacy of a particular ingredient, and some may include ingredients that interfere with certain medications.”

Dr. Gupta stresses that the foundation of any successful weight loss program should be the cultivation of a healthy lifestyle. He says, “No one can achieve sustainable weight loss without breaking bad habits and developing healthy habits.” He also points out that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to dieting; it should be tailored to each individual based on their daily routine, eating habits, and food preferences.

How To Take Weight Loss Supplements

Weight loss supplements aren’t magic pills, but with a few key tips, you can maximize their effectiveness while keeping yourself feeling and looking great throughout your weight loss journey.

1. Pair with Regular Exercise

Combine weight loss supplements with a regular exercise routine for optimal results. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise per day, three to five days a week. This synergy helps supercharge your weight loss efforts. Personally, I also use the Ultracavitat Cellulite Remover to help tackles cellulite and excess fat.

2. Follow a Healthy Meal Plan

Your chosen weight loss supplements work best when complemented by a nutritious meal plan. Fill your plate with fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and complex carbohydrates. A healthy diet is crucial for reaching your body weight goals.

3. Consistency is Key

Stick to the dosing instructions provided with your weight loss supplement. These guidelines will specify how many pills to take each day and when to take them. Consistency is vital; taking too much may lead to serious side effects, while too little might render the supplement ineffective.

Other Ways To Lose Weight and Reach Your Target Body Weight

While opting for diet pills can be convenient, there are numerous effective and sustainable approaches to successful weight management that don’t involve supplements.

1. Cut Down on Sugar

Decreasing your sugar intake is a game-changer. Sugars often pack in unnecessary calories without much nutritional value. It’s not just about avoiding obvious sweet treats; hidden sugars lurk in foods like granola bars, boxed juices, and energy drinks. Ditching these can contribute significantly to natural weight loss without the need for dietary supplements.

2. Embrace Protein-Rich Foods

Incorporating more proteins into your diet is a win-win. Not only do proteins provide essential nutrition for your body, but they also aid in weight management by keeping you full and curbing cravings. Include a variety of healthy protein sources like lean meats, eggs, legumes, nuts, fish, and dairy to ensure you get the right balance without overindulging.

3. Stay Hydrated

Don’t underestimate the power of water. Studies show that drinking water can make you feel fuller, reducing cravings for unhealthy snacks. Beyond that, staying well-hydrated throughout the day helps flush toxins from your body, supporting healthy organ function and aiding in maintaining a balanced body weight.

Potential Side Effects of Weight Loss Supplements

Effective weight loss pills that help burn fat and build muscle are generally safe, especially when they’re crafted from natural ingredients without artificial additives. Sticking to recommended dosages and choosing supplements from trustworthy sources goes a long way in avoiding serious health risks.

However, it’s important to be aware that using dietary supplements for weight loss might lead to some unwanted side effects, including stomach discomfort, headaches, insomnia, or an increased heart rate. These effects are often common when starting a weight loss journey and tend to fade after a few days.

If you notice any side effects that persist or worsen, it’s crucial to take action. Here’s what you can do:

1. Stop Taking the Supplements: If any side effects linger or become bothersome, halt the use of the dietary supplements immediately.

2. Consult Your Doctor: Reach out to your doctor for advice. They can provide guidance on whether the side effects are normal or if there’s a need for further evaluation.

Being mindful of your body’s response and taking prompt action ensures a safer weight loss journey. Remember, your well-being is a top priority, and it’s always wise to seek professional advice if you have concerns about the effects of any supplements you’re taking.

How are Dietary Supplements Regulated?

Dietary supplements are regulated differently from medications. Companies are responsible for ensuring the safety and accuracy of their products, which includes keeping them free from contaminants and correctly labeled.

Unlike medications, dietary supplements do not need FDA approval before being sold. However, the FDA can take action if a supplement is found to be unsafe or if companies make false claims about them. This regulatory oversight ensures consumers can trust the supplements they use, even though they don’t go through the same approval process as medications.

What is BMI, and how does it affect my weight loss goals?

BMI (Body Mass Index) gauges your weight in relation to your height. Knowing your BMI helps you set the right calorie goals for weight loss and estimate the time needed to reach a healthy weight.

Are there any contraindications with taking weight loss pills?

Weight loss pills are usually safe, but consult your doctor if you have health conditions. Also, check the ingredients label to avoid any possible interactions with your current medications.

Do all weight loss pills burn body fat?

No, not all weight loss pills burn body fat. Check the ingredients to make sure your chosen pill is meant for fat burning, typically containing caffeine and green tea extract. Others may focus on reducing appetite to help with weight loss by curbing cravings.

How Much Do Diet Pills Cost?

Diet pill prices differ based on brand and ingredients, usually falling between $50 to $100 for a month’s supply. Beware of much cheaper options, as they may not be effective or trustworthy weight loss pills.

Can you take more than one diet pill?

No, it’s not advised. Diet pills are meant to be used individually. Combining them can result in too much of the same ingredients and be unsafe. Always follow the recommended dosage for safety and effectiveness.