Weight loss is always on the top of almost everybody's mind. The continuous bombardment of "perfect size" film stars/models - unfortunately the only role models for most - on the television and the social media don't help. 

In the race to become or look like them, most people compromise their health. Their only goal being to externally look like their role models. Therein comes the point where they resort to any and everything that promises them weight loss without exercise or diet.Weight loss supplements like fat burners, meal replacers or pills are used by many. They have been around a long time, and the scary part is most people use them indiscriminately, simply by getting awed by the promise of quick weight loss.

So, what are weight loss supplements and do they really work?

Weight loss supplements are usually scientific formulas which an be used in place of a meal or fat burners which generally come in pill form and are alleged to help in burning fat, improving metabolism or promoting the fat stored in the body to be used as energy or fuel. Do they work?

Let's take a look at the most common ones.

  1. Garcinia Cambogia -  The fruit contains a chemical called as hydroxycitric acid, mainly found in the skin of this fruit. A review of various researches done on this has found that it helps marginally in weight loss. There are no known side effects of this as of now. It does not have any weight loss effect when taken alone.
  2. Green Tea - The most common kid on the block, green tea contains antioxidants, catechins and caffeine. Review research suggests that green tea does have minor effects in improving the bodies metabolism. 
  3. Caffeine - It's the most commonly used substance not only as a daily "pick-me-up" but also as a metabolism booster. It's found naturally in coffee, green tea, chocolate and several other foods. Green coffee bean extract - which is made from unroasted coffee beans has shown to have minor fat burning effect in weight loss.
  4. Isabgol - also known as psyllium husk, is a  natural fiber, and is very commonly used in weight loss. It helps increase the fiber load in the body thus helping in clear motions. It can cause gas and bloating in some people.

So, the bottom line is that none of the weight loss supplements so fiercely marketed are efficient individually. Whatever minor effect they have is all in combination with a low calorie diet and a suitable exercise routine. And more importantly,none of the supplements should be used without the guidance of your Nutritionist/Doctor - no self - medication!

There are no short -cuts to weight loss and nothing can substitute a well planned, healthy diet and exercise!!