From the Guidelines
There is no clear evidence that any weight loss supplement is effective for obesity management or weight loss, as stated in the most recent and highest quality study 1. The current evidence suggests that comprehensive weight loss maintenance strategies and counseling, as well as lifestyle changes that produce even modest, sustained weight loss of 3%–5%, are more effective in producing clinically meaningful health benefits 1. Some key points to consider when it comes to weight loss include:
- Comprehensive weight loss programs that include dietary changes and regular physical activity are more effective than supplements alone 1.
- High-quality published studies show little or no weight loss benefits from nutrition supplements, such as herbs and botanicals, high-dose vitamins and minerals, amino acids, enzymes, antioxidants, etc. 1.
- Vitamin/mineral supplementation may be indicated in cases of documented deficiency, and protein supplements may be indicated as adjuncts to medically supervised weight loss regimens 1. It's essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any weight loss program, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions or those taking medications. The most effective approach to weight loss is a comprehensive lifestyle intervention that includes dietary changes, regular physical activity, and behavioral support, rather than relying on supplements alone 1.
From the Research
Weight Loss Supplements in Australia
- The most evidence-based peer-reviewed weight loss supplement in Australia is not explicitly stated in the provided studies, but Garcinia cambogia is a commonly mentioned supplement for weight loss 2, 3, 4.
- Garcinia cambogia has been shown to exhibit anti-obesity activity, including reduced food intake and body fat gain, by regulating serotonin levels related to satiety, increasing fat oxidation, and decreasing de novo lipogenesis 2.
- However, the use of Garcinia cambogia has also been associated with liver injury, and its role in liver injury is controversial 3.
- A study on rats found that a combined extract of cocoa, coffee, green tea, and garcinia (CCGG) could stimulate lipid metabolism and reduce the incidence of liver lesions in high-energy diet-induced obese rats 4.
Safety and Efficacy
- The safety and efficacy of weight loss supplements, including Garcinia cambogia, are important considerations, and clinicians must reason through the best choices for individual patients 5.
- Clinical reasoning is necessary to evaluate the potential benefits and risks of weight loss supplements, as evidence-based recommendations may not always be applicable to individual cases 5.
- The potential for bias due to financial conflicts and limitations in the extent, quality, generalizability, and transferability of evidence must also be considered when evaluating weight loss supplements 5.