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We Know Dieting

Reviews written by Rebecca Grayson

130 results - showing 1 - 50 1 2 3 Results per page:
 
Metabolic Enhancers
 

SlimShot Diet Drink

0 of 1 people found the following review helpful
The benefit of this product is that is includes different formulas for the three different times of day.
Overall rating:
 
3.3
Customer Support:
 
3.0
Ingredient Quality:
 
4.0
Dosing Schedule:
 
3.0
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Reviewed by Rebecca Grayson
June 16, 2008

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Lifestyle Diet Reviews
 

I Can Make You Thin

0 of 0 people found the following review helpful
This review focuses on the book version rather than the television show.
Overall rating:
 
2.5
Customer Support:
 
3.0
Plan Quality:
 
2.0
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Reviewed by Rebecca Grayson
June 16, 2008

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Fat Burners
 

Leptoprin-SD

0 of 0 people found the following review helpful
Leptopril is supposed to be an identical generic for Leptoprin-SD, manufactured by the same company, which makes it a much more affordable choice for the exact same product.
Overall rating:
 
3.3
Customer Support:
 
4.0
Ingredient Quality:
 
3.0
Dosing Schedule:
 
3.0
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Reviewed by Rebecca Grayson
June 16, 2008

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Fat Burners
 

Leptopril

0 of 0 people found the following review helpful
This is a generic of Leptoprin-SD, supposedly including identical ingredients.
Overall rating:
 
3.0
Customer Support:
 
3.0
Ingredient Quality:
 
3.0
Dosing Schedule:
 
3.0
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Reviewed by Rebecca Grayson
June 16, 2008

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Fat Burners
 

Ephedrasil

0 of 0 people found the following review helpful
~

Diet Pills and Supplements

Since the ban of ephedra, a number of manufacturers have worked to come up with the next best thing… without the lethal side effects. Ephedrasil is one such supplement, marketed as a “controversial weight loss phenomenon.” According to the company, Ephedrasil is controversial because it works so quickly.

What’s in it?

Not unlike a number of other supplements, Ephedrasil contains all-natural Green Tea, but it also contains Ginkgo Biloba. Ephedrasil’s ingredient list continues with Taurine and L-Tyrosine, St. John’s Wort, White Willow Bark, Magnolia Bark, Siberian Ginseng, Phenlalanine, Metabromine, Clucurnaolactone, 5htp, and a few other herbal ingredients.

How does it work?

Although the website commends this “controversial weight loss phenomenon,” they are obviously playing off of the name recognition of ephedra. In fact, in their premier picture of the Ephedrasil bottle, “ephedra” is all that is visible. Whether or not their ingredients are solid, there is certainly a great deal of hype-related marketing surrounding this supplement.

As for the efficacy of Ephedrasil’s ingredients, there are some solid ingredients included. Green Tea is believed to have thermogenic properties while Taurine is most effective in controlling blood pressure but is often used in energy drinks and weight loss supplements. However, Ginkgo Biloba is commonly used as a memory aid, so the only reason we can determine for its addition to this formula is to sharpen your thinking. Additionally, L-Tyrosine is believed to promote muscle building, but research studies have been inconclusive.

Who does it work for?

Many of the products included in Ephedrasil are unfamiliar as weight loss aids, so we are unsure of their purpose in this supplement or their effectiveness in helping you lose weight. Since the goal of Ephedrasil is apparently to stimulate your mind and motivate you to want to lose weight, it’s difficult to test its powers. Who is to say whether it is actually the weight loss supplement or your own internal motivation that finally put you over the hump?

Feedback on Ephedrasil’s website is disappointingly brief (1-2 lines of text), so we have no context for the customers who have been successful with this product. In fact, general information on the website is a bit disappointing, which raises another red flag for us.

Are there possible side effects?

As far as side effects, Ginkgo Biloba is known to cause diarrhea, nausea, and headaches, and obviously there are caffeine-related side effects from the Green Tea Extra, like dizziness and insomnia. Add to the list the fact that researchers believe L-Tyrosine may contribute to depression, and you have quite the list of possible side effects.

Are there any “bonus” features?

The retail cost of Ephedrasil is listed as $117, but it is “on sale” right now for $69 for a bottle of 120 capsules. Of course, the more you buy, the more you save with 240 capsules costing just $129, and so on. However, there is no guarantee on this product nor is there information to contact the manufacturer or company directly.

If you haven’t picked up on our tone yet, we are a bit skeptical regarding products like Ephedrasil. Their website is lacking in important information, the product promises to free you mentally to lose weight, and there is no company contact willing to stand behind the product. While there are plenty of all-natural supplements out there – and it is possible Ephedrasil is the miracle brain release it’s promised as – we are inclined to believe Ephedrasil has more publicity than promise.

Overall rating:
 
2.7
Customer Support:
 
2.0
Ingredient Quality:
 
3.0
Dosing Schedule:
 
3.0
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Reviewed by Rebecca Grayson
June 03, 2008

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Fat Burners
 

D4 Extreme 90

1 of 2 people found the following review helpful
~

Diet Pills and Supplements

With a number of other weight loss and body-building supplements on the market, it’s difficult to determine if Cellucor is committed to D4 Extreme. The goal of this particular supplement is to provide you with an energy boost, which hopefully “maximizes” the body’s ability to burn fat stores.

What’s in it?

One of the main thermogenic ingredients in D4 is Octopamine HCL, but researchers are uncertain how much this contributes to weight loss. Also included are Willow Bark, Ginger Root Extract, Embelic Myrobalan, Caffeine Anhydrous, Evodiamine, and Ampacor.

How does it work?

Overall, the goal of D4 Extreme is to provide you with that extra burst of energy you might need to complete a vigorous workout. Since we all know exercise and a balanced diet are important lifestyle changes in continued weight loss, encouraging these two aspects is a good sign. The Cellucor website also suggests that D4’s formula “targets” problem areas and causes you to burn fat where you need to most.

However, studies have been inconclusive as to the helpfulness of Caffeine in long-term weight loss, since it may even raise Cortisol levels, which could contribute to weight gain. Caffeine is often included as a temporary energy boost, which can be achieved with a number of other ingredients. Additionally, while Embelic Myrobalan is supposed to be an Ephedra-like ingredient, there is little information or research regarding how this ingredient works. Although the website also suggests D4 Extreme helps suppress your appetite, there is no ingredient listed with these specific capabilities.

Who does it work for?

There are no user testimonials available via Cellucor’s website, so it’s difficult to determine how effective D4 Extreme can be. Since Cellucor encourages combining this weight loss aid with any of their other weight loss products, this leads us to suspect that D4 Extreme may not be as effective as other similar products. Additionally, the website suggests that you only use D4 for 12 week intervals for optimal results, and then discontinue use for 4 weeks before you use D4 again. According to the website, this will keep your body from developing a tolerance to the weight loss characteristics.

Are there possible side effects?

Because this product contains Caffeine, there are possible side effects if you are sensitive to this stimulant. Also, combining Synephrine and Caffeine in one product may intensify caffeine-related side effects like dizziness, sleeplessness, and jitters, as well as add risk factors of more serious conditions like stroke. There is also a possibility that nausea may result, although Ginger Root Extract is included to minimize stomach-related side effects.

Are there any “bonus” features?

Cellucor does offer free shipping on any purchase, but D4 Extreme costs $69.99 for 120 capsules. With directions to take “1-2 capsules” morning and afternoon, this could add up to $70 per month! And that price doesn’t include any gym memberships, nutrition consultations, or healthy food you choose to pair with D4.

In short, we are neither certain of D4 Extreme’s effectiveness nor impressed with its price. We do feel a product that can only be used for a limited time should be paired with a healthy diet and exercise in order for you to see long-term results. And if you are exercising and eating well, there is no way to know if Cellucor’s D4 is what finally helped you lose weight.

Overall rating:
 
3.3
Customer Support:
 
4.0
Ingredient Quality:
 
3.0
Dosing Schedule:
 
3.0
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Reviewed by Rebecca Grayson
June 03, 2008

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Fat Burners
 

Cytolean

0 of 0 people found the following review helpful
Cytolean replaced Gaspari Nutrition's previous fat burner, 3 Degree Burn.

Diet Pills and Supplements

Since so many dieters struggle to lose weight on their own, Cytolean is another supplement promising to aid the average person in shedding some pounds. The website does mention including their product as a supplement combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise, but this is not necessarily a focus of their marketing campaign. Cytolean actually replaced their supplement 3 Degree Burn as their fat burning component.

What’s in it?

The active ingredient in Cytolean – with patent pending – is Beta-phenylethylamine, a naturally-occurring stimulant in neuroamine that has been used in the past to relieve depression. Cytolean is a “proprietary blend,” which also contains Glucuronolactone, Green Tea Extract, L-Tyrosine, DL Phenylalanine, Caffeine, Evodia Rutaecarpa Extract, Hordenine, Ginkgo Biloba Extract, Uncana Rhynchophylla, and Sinofranchetia Chinensis.

How does it work?

Cytolean manufacturers – Gaspari Nutrition – suggest that their product provides a necessary boost of energy, citing a great deal of information regarding the “chemical composition” and “science” behind Cytolean. The website also suggests Cytolean can help you burn fat and reduce appetite, creating a “euphoric” effect.

Unfortunately, while Beta-phenylethylamine has been proven to have positive effects on mood, we are unsure how effectively it may be as a weight loss aid. The other ingredients in Cytolean are typical of weight loss aids, and may or may not contribute to weight loss. They are likely to contribute to higher energy levels, which can assist with a regular workout program, but evidence suggesting that they are directly responsible for weight loss is hard to come by.

Who does it work for?

There is one user testimonial available via Cytolean’s website, but the dieter appears as part of a paid advertisement. As we already mentioned, phenylethylamine has been shown to improve mood, similar to the effects of an amphetamine, but the body does not eventually develop a tolerance like it does with true amphetamines.

Are there possible side effects?

There has not been a great deal of research regarding Cytolean’s primary ingredient, Beta-phenylethylamine, which always concerns us with any recently-developed product. There are no side effects listed on the company’s website, but we recommend consulting your doctor before beginning this supplement, especially if you are currently taking depression or other prescription medications.

Are there any “bonus” features?

There doesn’t appear to be much of a customer service plan for Cytolean, and it is available from a variety of websites, including manufacturers Gaspari Nutrition. Although list price is around $50, Cytolean is currently advertised as $27 for 120 capsules. Of course, netnutri.com also suggests “stacking” Cytolean with other Gaspari Nutrition products, like Thyrotabs, their thermogenic compound.

As there is little evidence in favor of Cytolean, we recommend caution when determining whether or not to try this product. It is no secret that the healthiest way to lose weight is by combining a balanced diet with regular exercise, so products like Cytolean are developed for those people who feel their weight loss is not occurring as quickly as they might like. We would suggest remaining patient with the right kinds of weight loss rather than resorting to a new supplement, but encourage you to research Cytolean completely if you determine it might be right for you.

Overall rating:
 
3.0
Customer Support:
 
3.0
Ingredient Quality:
 
3.0
Dosing Schedule:
 
3.0
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Reviewed by Rebecca Grayson
June 03, 2008

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Fat Burners
 

CortiSlim

0 of 0 people found the following review helpful
A few of the discount websites offering CortiSlim indicated that they had limited quantities and were unsure when more shipments would be received.

Diet Pills and Supplements

Here it comes again, our favorite buzz word: “all-natural,” although in this case, it appears to be true. CortiSlim is indeed an all-natural product aimed at helping you lose weight by controlling your appetite and generally returning your body to a level of good health and well being. However, there is evidence suggesting CortiSlim’s marketing campaign is not backed by scientific evidence.

What’s in it?

There are a few different formulas available for CortiSlim, each with a more specialized diet profile in mind. Originally included on the website was also information on eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly, so customers were armed with all the tools necessary to help them lose weight. However, we were not able to access CortiSlim’s official website for this review. We will discuss the reasoning for this in detail a bit later.

Included in all versions of CortiSlim are Vitamin C, Calcium, and Chromium. The specific blends include the following ingredients:

  • Cortiplex Proprietary Blend: Beta-Sitosteerol, L-Theanine, and Magnolia Bark
  • Leptiplex Proprietary Blend: Green Tea Extract and Bitter Orange Peel
  • Insutrol Proprietary Blend: Banaba Leaf Standardized Extract and Sulfate

How does it work?

CortiSlim is not meant to work as a traditional fat burner, speeding up the body’s internal temperature. Manufacturers claim that CortiSlim works with the hormone cortisol to reduce the amount of cortisol at work in the body. This is supposed to cause the body to stop hoarding its fat stores. Green tea has definitely been shown to reduce stress-related production of cortisol, but we are unsure what role cortisol actually plays in the weight loss process.

Who does it work for?

There are a number of CortiSlim success stories available on various websites, with testimonials offering a general idea of the results you could accomplish. However, we could not find a specific CortiSlim website either with expected results or general information.

Also, in 2004, CortiSlim’s parent company, Window Rock, was under investigation for making unsubstantiated marketing claims regarding this product, so their marketing stance has substantially changed since then. In fact, manufacturers of CortiSlim were ordered to pay $12 million to settle a lawsuit against them for false advertising, which could explain the lack of direct contact information.

Are there possible side effects?

Since we couldn’t access a specific CortiSlim website, it’s difficult to determine possible side effects for this weight loss supplement. Although CortiSlim is an “all-natural” product, make sure you carefully follow dosing instructions and check on all the known ingredients before taking this product.

Are there any “bonus” features?

Since there is no one host website, it’s difficult to determine if there are “bonus” features available. Since CortiSlim is available from a number of sources, there are certainly some reduced prices out there. We saw advertisements for 20-75% off the original suggested retail, which is another red flag as far as the manufacturers no longer backing CortiSlim.

Because of the false advertising claims lawsuit settled against CortiSlim’s parent company, we certainly don’t feel we can recommend this particular weight loss product. While this supplement may contain some ingredients that are beneficial for your health, there is little evidence to show it will help you lose weight – in fact, the lawsuit CortiSlim’s manufacturers settled on suggests they were aware little weight loss would result from this product. So, don’t expect results when taking this product, but you can definitely expect some bargain basement prices.

Overall rating:
 
2.3
Customer Support:
 
1.0
Ingredient Quality:
 
3.0
Dosing Schedule:
 
3.0
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Reviewed by Rebecca Grayson
June 03, 2008

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Fat Burners
 

3 Degree Burn

0 of 0 people found the following review helpful
Manufacturers Gaspari Nutrition have replaced 3 Degree Burn with Cytolean.

Diet Pills and Supplements

Originally manufactured by Gaspari Nutrition USA, 3° Burn is another in a long line of fat burners intended to help you miraculously drop pounds. Their website suggests that 3° Burn is best used in combination with other products, like their Thermogenic Thyrotabs. Company founder, Rich Gaspari, attempts to develop cutting edge products geared especially toward athletes, since he was once a body-builder himself.

What’s in it?

There are a number of basic ingredients in 3° Burn, similar to ingredients found in a number of popular products. While Gaspari’s original website didn’t list ingredients, we were able to find a list of ingredients on a discount website. According to this website, 3° Burn contains Green Tea Extract, Theobromine, Caffeine, diether Evodiamine, Hordenine, and Synephrine, as well as Maltodextrin, Magnesium Stearate, and Silica.

How does it work?

Gaspari nutrition claims that this product amps up the production of the thyroid, which is able to provide “thermogenic, adrenergic, and appetite suppressive compounds.” Research does show that increasing thyroid production can positively affect the metabolism, but it’s difficult to determine if 3° Burn’s particular list of ingredients contributes to that claim. Although the thyroid can certainly raise your metabolism, this does not necessarily make it a “fat burner” as this requires breaking up existing fat, a job that isn’t necessarily accomplished through these ingredients either.

Who does 3 Degree Burn work for?

Although at one point there may have been testimonials on Gaspari Nutrition USA’s website, there are currently no testimonials for 3° Burn, probably due to the fact that it is no longer available. The one discount website where we were able to find 3° Burn had only 1 review, and it was extremely negative. It appears that this product doesn’t work for anyone, which may be why it is no longer available. Instead, it has been replaced with Gaspari’s new fat burner, Cytolean.

Are there possible side effects?

Because of the 7-Keto DHEA system in place with 3° Burn, which delivers the supplement to the body’s systems, there is a chance that side effects like heart palpitations can occur. Also, thyroid stimulation is usually reserved for the medical community, since the thyroid hormone plays such an important role in the body’s function. It is no surprise that this product has recently been replaced by Gaspari’s new fat burner, Cytolean. This leads us to question the safety of 3° Burn in the first place, since it is no longer in production.

Are there any “bonus” features with 3 Degree Burn?

It appears that this product has recently been discontinued in lieu of Gaspari Nutrition USA’s recent development, Cytolean. Since there are still a few products floating around at discount websites, for as little as $30 for 90 capsules, there are certainly some good deals to be had. However, we caution you against using a product that is no longer in production by the manufacturer as there is likely a reason this product has been replaced.

Overall rating:
 
2.7
Customer Support:
 
2.0
Ingredient Quality:
 
3.0
Dosing Schedule:
 
3.0
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Reviewed by Rebecca Grayson
June 03, 2008

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Fat Burners
 

MiracleBurn

0 of 0 people found the following review helpful
While this product looks good on paper, customer reviews seem to be extremely mixed.

Diet Pills and Supplements

Miracleburn Review
Another highly touted diet aid, MiracleBurn diet pills are “cocktail,” combining a number of dieting ingredients. MiracleBurn combines appetite suppression with thermogensis, that buzz word that refers to the burning of existing fat stores. MiracleBurn diet pills are currently available only online, but they seem pretty easy to obtain this way.

What’s in it?

MiracleBurn’s combination contains yet more of the elusive South African Hoodia, straight from the Kalahari Desert.

According to many studies, pure South African Hoodia is the most effective form of Hoodia, so make sure you research any product claiming to contain Hoodia. Like NuPhedrine, MiracleBurn diet pills promise a certificate of authenticity to substantiate their claims that this Hoodia is the real deal.

MiracleBurn diet pills also contain Advantra-Z, which advertisers promise will burn an additional 500 calories per day without exercise. Advantra-Z is the name-brand for Bitter Orange, an herb that assures results similar to the drug Ephedra.

While MiracleBurn only advertises these two products, in a tiny link on their website, you can find a number of other “all-natural” herbs, which they organize into the following categories:

  • Fat-burning drugs: apple cider vinegar (acidic enough to eat away your fat stores), L-carnitine (converts fat into a source of energy), GTF chromium (converts sugar into energy before the body stores it.
  • Appetite suppressants & digestive aids: hoodia cactus, glucomannan (prevents fat from entering the bloodstream, which reduces appetite), vitamin B6 (quickly processes & metabolizes foods), biotin (processes proteins), cascara sagrada (flushes broken down fat cells), senna (flushes toxins & excess water weight), iodine (increases energy levels & balances thyroid hormones)
  • Energy aids: yerba matte (enhances rate fat is broken down & flushes toxins), white willow bark (enhances other energy aids by breaking down fat cells & shortens recovery time after exercise).

For a miracle pill advertising just 2 specific ingredients, MiracleBurn diet pills contain a great deal more when you read the fine print.

Get Started Here

How does Miracleburn work?

Miracleburn Review
Hoodia works as an appetite suppressant, which sends the brain the message that your stomach is full, whether or not you have eaten recently. So, when you are able to curb your hunger all day long, you should be able to cut back on your caloric intake and thus lose weight – even if it means that all you cut out is your midnight snack!

At the same time, Advantra-Z is formulated to step up your metabolism and begin burning not just calories but your existing fat stores as well. So, Advantra-Z jump-starts your body’s ability to consume calories, and starts eating away at your fat stores – whether that’s the spare tire leftover from the holidays or that extra jiggle on the back of what was once your triceps.

Who does Miracleburn work for?

According to their website, MiracleBurn is effective for a variety of body types, if you’re interested in losing 20 pounds or if you’re interested in a massive weight reduction. The company is confident enough in their system that they offer fair return policies as well as online customer service representatives, and they also offer you a one-month trial for the cost of shipping.

The makers of MiracleBurn diet pills claim that its effects can be felt within 45 minutes. Since it is a natural product, it is absorbed by the body as food, and can immediately begin working to help you lose weight. Also, they advertise that since these products are all-natural, your body continues to adjust to its weight loss, so you don’t gain the weight back as soon as you stop taking the drug.

Are there possible side effects?

Despite the strong effects of these drugs – specifically since Advantra-Z mirrors stimulants like Ephedra – as of this Miracleburn review there are allegedly no side effects reported for these diet pills. However, you should contact a doctor if you experience rapid heartbeat, dizziness, shortness of breath, or similar symptoms.

Who should NOT take it?

As with most drugs, there is a long list of people who should avoid taking MiracleBurn diet pills. First, if you are pregnant, nursing, or using a MAOI (monoamine oxidase inhibitor), you should not take MiracleBurn. Additionally, you should discuss this product with your doctor if you have heart disease, thyroid disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, depression, glaucoma, difficulty urinating, enlarged prostate, seizure disorder, or if you are using any prescription drug. You are also cautioned to avoid using more than the recommended dosage as this will not improve the effects of the drug.

MiracleBurn does promise that your body will naturally adjust to your new weight, so you should be able to keep the weight off. However, keep in mind that MiracleBurn still encourages lifestyle changes like exercise and a healthy diet. It is up to you to maintain your weight with the lifestyle changes. Even if your metabolism has already adjusted to your weight loss, you need to make sure you are just feeding that lowered metabolism. No matter what the pill promises, the end result is still up to you.

Get Started Here

Overall rating:
 
3.7
Customer Support:
 
4.0
Ingredient Quality:
 
4.0
Dosing Schedule:
 
3.0
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Reviewed by Rebecca Grayson
June 03, 2008

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Fat Burners
 

5 Way Metabolic Fat Fighter

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful
~

Diet Pills and Supplements

Many of the ingredients in 5 Way Metabolic Fat Fighter are recognizable if you are familiar with what’s current in the diet world. According to the manufacturer, Provida Labs, this particular supplement is especially effective when used in conjunction with Michael Thurmond’s 6 Week Body Makeover. We appreciate this emphasis on working out and eating right as part of a weight loss program, but we want to take a closer look at what 5 Way Metabolic Fat Fighter has to offer.

What’s in it?

There are a number of basic herbal ingredients in 5 Way Metabolic Fat Fighter, like Green Tea Extract and Guarana Extract. In addition, minerals and vitamins like Chromium; Vitamins B1, B2, B6, and B12; Calcium, Magnesium, and Zinc round out the formula. The formula does include Caffeine, so if you are sensitive to this stimulant, you might want to choose a different supplement.

How does it work?

While the Caffeine in Guarana and Green Tea Extracts are believed to boost metabolism, this is more likely to bring about a short-lived energy boost rather than a sustained fat burning effect. While some research suggests Green Tea lowers cholesterol and increases fat oxidation, it may also contribute to weight loss as a kind of diuretic. Overall, it is difficult to determine how effective these particular ingredients might be in this formula.

Who does it work for?

While there are a handful of testimonials via 5 Way Metabolic Fat Fighter’s website, these success stories discuss the entire Michael Thurmond 6 Week Body Makeover rather than the supplement in particular. With these testimonials as evidence, it’s likely that 5 Way Metabolic Fat Fighter will not work on its own, but must be combined with a diet program that includes exercise and a balanced diet.

Are there possible side effects?

Both Guarana Extract and Green Tea Extract contain Caffeine, which means if you are sensitive to Caffeine-related side effects like jitteriness, sleeplessness, or nausea, you should avoid 5 Way Metabolic Fat Fighter. It is possible, though, that your body would adjust to the lower levels of Caffeine over time. As with any diet program, it’s a good idea to review your personal review history with your family doctor before beginning a supplement such as this one.

Are there any “bonus” features?

Right now, a free 1-month supply of 5 Way Metabolic Fat Fighter is available via Provida Labs’s website. You are required to pay the $7.99 shipping and handling, but this is a great way for you to test out this product and see if it works for you. In addition, you will receive 40% off of future purchases from Provida Labs, so if the product works, you will receive 40% the retail price of $34.95.

While we are unsure of the overall effectiveness of this product, we are certain that any possible results will come from combining 5 Way Metabolic Fat Burner with regular workouts and a balanced diet. If you have already been exercising and eating right and you are not seeing results, you might consider a trial offer from a supplement like 5 Way Metabolic Fat Burner. However, while some supplements can be effective, they are not always the healthiest way to lose weight.

Overall rating:
 
4.3
Customer Support:
 
5.0
Ingredient Quality:
 
4.0
Dosing Schedule:
 
4.0
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Reviewed by Rebecca Grayson
June 03, 2008

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Fat Burners
 

7-DFB by Orovo

0 of 0 people found the following review helpful
The customer support is offered via the Orovo website.

Diet Pills and Supplements

Another product manufactured by Orovo, 7-DFB is a weight loss supplement that is supposed to burn fat. An abbreviation for the “7 Day Fat Burner,” 7-DFB is advertised as aiding customers in losing 7-14 pounds in just 7 days. Unfortunately, most of Orovo’s products are not necessarily backed by research. Let’s take a closer look at 7-DFB to see what results it can produce.

What’s in it?

The supplement 7-DFB has a number of ingredients – so many, in fact, that it’s difficult to determine the purpose of this product. Some of the primary active ingredients are Buchu, Uva ursi, Flaxseed powder, Ginger Root, Goldenseal, Chromium Polynicotinate, Psyllium Husk, Oat Bran Fiber, and Caffeine Anhydrous.

How does it work?

Marketed as a detoxification pill, the purpose of 7-DFB is to quickly flush your body of all its impurities, which should help you lose weight in the process. Manufacturers of 7-DFB recommend this supplement as a way to begin a diet, since it is supposed to offer you quick results to jumpstart your weight loss plan.

Essentially, 7-DFB contains many different fiber elements, which work to flush the body’s digestive system and keep you from adding more fat stores to your body. Fiber forms a viscous solution in your stomach that the body cannot digest, so it is naturally eliminated. 7-DFB also contains diuretic ingredients, like Buchu, as well as laxatives, like Goldenseal and Aloe Vera. So, while you may “cleanse” your digestive system, you’re not likely to lose any fat stores with this product.

Who does it work for?

There are a number of testimonials on Orovo’s website, which all claim to have lost weight very quickly using 7-DFB. We have no doubt this product will show you have lost weight, but we believe the weight is likely to return almost as quickly as it left without necessary lifestyle adjustments.

Are there possible side effects?

Some customers report increased urination and/or bowel movements while taking 7-DFB, likely due to the variety of fiber and diuretic ingredients. Additionally, caffeine can cause side effects like insomnia, nervousness, headaches, and increased blood pressure. Uva Ursi has been noted to cause nausea and vomiting, irritability, and an increased heart rate, while Buchu can cause fatigue, itchiness, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal swelling and pain, and jaundice.

With such a list of side effects, make sure you weight the pros and cons before deciding 7-DFB is the right choice to jumpstart your weight loss plan. However, Orovo does include a number of products in 7-DFB aimed at calming these side effects and returning your digestive system to normal.

Are there any “bonus” features?

A week-long supply of 7-DFB is around $25, which makes this supplement fairly expensive based on its ingredients and results. On Orovo’s website, 7-DFB is combined with other supplements in combination packs as well.

The biggest problem with the weight loss provided by a product like 7-DFB is your system is likely to re-toxify itself over time. While 7-DFB and similar products may help you shed some initial pounds by clearing out the toxins in your digestive system, you will not have adopted any lifestyle changes to maintain this weight loss. Essentially, your weight loss will consist of excess waste rather than excess fat stores. If you’re interested in a healthy digestive system, check out 7-DFB. If you’re interested in healthy weight loss, try a balanced diet and exercise. It’s amazing what you can do when you stick to a weight loss plan.

Overall rating:
 
4.0
Customer Support:
 
5.0
Ingredient Quality:
 
3.0
Dosing Schedule:
 
4.0
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Reviewed by Rebecca Grayson
June 03, 2008

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48 Hour Cyclone Diet

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This product has been discontinued from a number of distributors' websites, so it is unclear how much longer it will be available.

Diet Pills and Supplements

While we’ve all heard of diet drinks like SlimFast, we have also become leery of companies who promise extraordinarily fast results. This seems to be the case with the 48 Hour Cyclone Diet, a drink product aiming to help you drop some weight quite quickly. Of course, there is no guarantee that the 10 pounds they promise you will lose will stay off.

What’s in it?

As a drink mix product, 48 Hour Cyclone Diet comes in powder form and requires you to drink 6 packets over a 2-day period. Ingredients in the powder are made up with a number of vitamins and minerals, which may include Green Tea Leaf Extract, Guarana Seed Extract, Peppermint Leaf, Cinnamon Bark, Chamomile Flower, Ginger Root, Oat Fiber, Soy Fiber, Senna Leaf Extract, St. John’s Brea, Tamarind Extract, Uva Ursi Leaf, Buchu Leaf, and Tangerine Peel. However, with so many retailers offering this product, it’s difficult to determine conclusively what is included in the powder mixture.

How does it work?

Manufacturers advertise that you can choose what you eat, since as long as you drink your 6 packets of 48 Hour Cyclone Diet, you will still lose weight. However, the 48 Hour Cyclone Diet points out that you may eat whatever foods you want to choose from the “Cyclone Food Guide.” You are supposed to drink one of your 6 packets before each meal for three days, which may suggest some sort of appetite suppressant affect, and the product is certainly marketed as a fat burner.

Who does it work for?

There are user testimonials on many of the various retailers’ websites, but it is difficult to determine how accurate these opinions are without effective before and after pictures. Also, we were unable to find references to scientific-based research. Of course, their suggestion that you invest in the 4-month program doesn’t do much to convince us that this product is for real, although it does at least reinforce our belief that it is impossible to lose and maintain large amounts of weight so quickly.

Are there possible side effects?

Whether or not you would like to drop 10 pounds in 2 days, this is not a safe or effective way to lose weight. Most medical authorities recommend losing no more than 1-2 pounds per week, although if you have a great deal of weight to lose, you may drop pounds more quickly at first.

In addition to the promise that you will lose weight a bit too rapidly for our tastes, there may be a great deal of Caffeine in 48 Hour Cyclone Diet, which can cause side effects like anxiety, jitters, and sleep-related difficulties.

Are there any “bonus” features?

In general, we cannot recommend a quick weight-loss plan like 48 Hour Cyclone Diet due to its promise of overnight success.

There didn’t appear to be any free trials of 48 Hour Cyclone Diet,which makes sense for such a whirlwind diet program. However, a 2-daycourse is around $15 + shipping on a number of websites, whichtranslates to a relatively low price for short-term diet results. Ofcourse, if 48 Hour Cyclone Diet works for you, you can always invest inlarger amounts of the product; although this doesn’t appear to get youmuch of a price break, it does cut down on shipping costs. We alwayssuggest trying a product first before ordering larger quantities,though. Update: According to more recent research, 48 Hour CycloneDiet has been discontinued from a number of its distributors and may only be available for a limited time.

We always recommend combining regular exercise with a balanced diet, and while 48 Hour Cyclone Diet may encourage wise nutritional choices, they do not mention exercise at all. Also, such rapid weight loss is likely to be a shock to your system and will not result in long-term weight loss results. If you feel supplementation is absolutely necessary, we suggest a product that encourages positive fitness and food choices rather than one that promises miraculous results.

Overall rating:
 
2.3
Customer Support:
 
1.0
Ingredient Quality:
 
3.0
Dosing Schedule:
 
3.0
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Reviewed by Rebecca Grayson
June 03, 2008

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Fat Burners
 

4.3.2.1 Diet Detox: Liquid Formula

0 of 0 people found the following review helpful
Dosage should be taken throughout the day, diluted in water.

Diet Pills and Supplements

Lately, there has been a great deal of talk in the fitness world about the many “toxins” that we regularly ingest by way of our food products. A weight loss plan like 4321 Diet promises quick results through a detoxification process but may not have lasting results.

What’s in it?

The 4321 Diet comes in the form of a liquid serum, which contains a variety of ingredients. Their proprietary blend includes Green tea, Dandelion root extract, Cola nut extract, Mate bush leaf extract, Sweet fennel seed extract, Celery leaf & tip extract, Bitter orange peel extract, and Artichoke leaf.

How does it work?

There is not a great deal of information regarding the way this product affects your metabolism, although it does supposedly speed up your ability to burn fat. As a fat burner and appetite suppressant, 4321 Diet is one of many products out there that is supposed to use “thermogenesis” to raise body temperature and help you drop pounds. This often affects excess water weight first, which especially makes sense for a detoxification process like 4321 Diet, although manufacturers also claim that it boosts energy.

Who does it work for?

There are a number of testimonials available online, but since 4321 Diet is available via a number of online retailers, there is not a great deal of information available from these testimonials. The manufacturer, Health from the Sun, doesn’t actually include any user comments on their website. So, as with a number of “proven” weight loss aids currently on the market, it’s difficult to determine how effective 4321 Diet actually is.

Are there possible side effects?

There are no side effects listed on any of the 4321 Diet websites, and the product does claim to be all-natural. However, it’s always a good idea to consult your doctor before you begin any new diet aid, especially one without much research to back up its effectiveness.

Are there any “bonus” features?

There is currently no free trial available for 4321 Diet, which makes sense for a short-term detoxification program. No matter what the product, a company could quickly “sell” themselves out of business by providing a free trial for a detox product. However, 4321 is reasonably priced at around $15-20 for a 10-day program.

No matter how affordable, we do have our reservations about 4321 Diet as a weight loss aid. While it’s certainly possible that this product can help “cleanse” your system, any weight you are able to lose is not likely to be long-term. You are more likely to achieve lasting weight loss results by combining a healthy diet with regular exercise, so try investing your money into a nutritionist or a gym membership if you’re serious about losing weight. If you feel you must try a supplement, consider seeking the advice of a registered dietician regarding healthy supplements that might contribute to your complete weight loss plan.

Overall rating:
 
2.7
Customer Support:
 
3.0
Ingredient Quality:
 
3.0
Dosing Schedule:
 
2.0
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Reviewed by Rebecca Grayson
June 03, 2008

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Fat Burners
 

Abs+

0 of 0 people found the following review helpful
~

Diet Pills and Supplements

With all of the diet supplements out there, it is difficult to find one that sets itself apart from the rest. One of the ways abs+ claims to be different is by supposedly targeting your midsection in its effort to remove fat from the body. Developed by Genuine Health, abs+ is one of many products the company offers to help offset the growing trend of obesity.

What’s in it?

The primary ingredients in abs+ are Green Tea Extract, a popular supplement ingredient and Conjugated Linoleic Acid. To round out the formula, abs+ contains Beeswax, Lecithin, Gelatin, Glycerin, Carob, and Water.

How does it work?

While we know Green Tea Extract (EGCG) is an antioxidant, the Caffeine content is also believed to contribute to fat-burning efforts by raising your metabolism and increasing fat removal.

Additionally, Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) is believed to prevent your body from storing addition fat and may help raise your metabolism as well. Actually, it is possible to obtain CLA from a healthy diet, as it is found in meats and dairy products, and there is some question as to whether the “proven” research studies are applicable to smaller doses of CLA found in supplements like abs+.

Who does it work for?

Judging from Genuine Health’s website, it is difficult to determine who abs+ is most advantageous for. There are testimonials on the website, but none over abs+ in particular. Also, while the company points to “research” over all products available through Genuine Health, there are no specific studies cited, which makes it all the more difficult to determine the overall benefits of abs+.

Since the company offers a combination package, including abs+ (focused on “targeting abdominal fat”) and lean+ (their “proven” calorie burner), this suggests abs+ is not likely to work on its own. Most supplements are effective only when combined with lifestyle changes like a balanced diet and regular exercise, so this probably holds true for abs+ as well.

Are there possible side effects?

According to their website, abs+ should not be used by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding or by children. They also suggest speaking to your doctor before taking abs+ if you are on any kind of prescription medication. We would suggest talking your doctor before beginning any supplement whether or not you have prescriptions, so we feel this is wise advice.

Are there any “bonus” features?

Unfortunately, abs+ is also not available in any kind of trial offer, nor is there a money-back guarantee offered by Genuine Health. Although the supplement is relatively inexpensive ($25 for 90 pills), we suggest first attempting to lose weight on your own by lowering your caloric intake and working out. If you are not seeing results, start small with something like abs+. If you are still struggling to lose weight, a combination pack like the “absolute lean team kit” may help curb your appetite and burn stubborn fat stores.

Overall rating:
 
3.0
Customer Support:
 
3.0
Ingredient Quality:
 
3.0
Dosing Schedule:
 
3.0
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Reviewed by Rebecca Grayson
June 03, 2008

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Accelis

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~

Diet Pills and Supplements

In the new line of “fast and easy” weight loss, the diet supplement Accelis is marketed as guaranteed to help you drop 10+ pounds in a flash. Although it’s possible that you may be able to lose some initial weight quickly, the most effective way to lose weight and maintain that weight loss is to combine a balanced diet with regular exercise, and many supplements require a “maintenance” dose to ensure your newfound weight lost doesn’t creep back on. Let’s take a look at what Accelis has to offer in the way of expedited weight loss.

What’s in it?

Accelis has a number of ingredients, some of which are questionable in their abilities to help you lose weight. In particular, Accelis contains Corosolic Acid, taken from Lagerstroemia Speciosa extract, as well as Chamomile extract and Passionflower extract. Also, Accelis includes the following Caffeine-free ingredients: Green Tea extract, Oolong Tea extract, and White Tea extract.

How does it work?

Corosolic Acid is supposed to promote weight loss by sending glucose to your muscles rather than to fat stores, although research doesn’t really back up these claims. Some researchers go so far as to claim there is no positive benefit to such an ingredient in any supplement. As opposed to appetite suppressants or thermogenic compounds, Accelis is intended to starve your fat stores, causing them to “melt” off of your body.

Who does it work for?

The “key ingredient” in Accelis, Corosolic Acid, only makes up 3% of the supplement, which means the rest of the ingredients are made up of all-natural fillers. Although this might be a better alternative than a drug with a number of possible side effects, we found many dissatisfied customers out there.

In fact, in trying to locate research to back up their advertising claims, we were unable to find an official website, which usually throws up a red flag in the diet industry. You generally want a company to back their product with detailed online information.

Are there possible side effects?

Perhaps thanks to its all-natural status, no side effects have been reported regarding Accelis. Although it is always in your best interest to discuss a new supplement with your doctor, the absence of caffeine in this product is a step in the right direction.

Are there any “bonus” features?

There are a number of online retailers advertising “sales” of Accelis supplements, which we’ve pointed out as a red flag. Generally, products that work tend to maintain a high price thanks to supply and demand, but we found Accelis for an advertised 60% off the retail price, around $16 for a bottle of 40 capsules. While it is not uncommon to lower prices in order to generate interest in a new product, often this “sale” is only offered by the manufacturer.

In general, all-natural supplements are untested and difficult to find adequate information on. While it’s possible that Accelis may help you lose weight, its questionable ingredients certainly plant doubts in our minds. If you are interested in an all-natural supplement, there are options out there that include research-supported diet aids as major ingredients (rather than an active ingredient that makes up just 3% of this supplement). Of course, as always, remember the healthiest way to lose weight is by combining regular exercise with a balanced diet.

Overall rating:
 
2.0
Customer Support:
 
1.0
Ingredient Quality:
 
2.0
Dosing Schedule:
 
3.0
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Reviewed by Rebecca Grayson
June 03, 2008

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Fat Burners
 

Alli Diet Pills

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful
This is one of the first over-the-counter diet aids (a lower dose of the prescription drug Xenical) approved by the FDA.

Diet Pills and Supplements

I don’t know if you’ve noticed the common trend, but many diet pills promise drastic overnight results. Alli diet pills don’t belong in that category. Instead, Alli claims to contribute to gradual, healthier weight loss. Although there are users who claim the weight loss is not nearly quick enough, there are other customers who have proven Alli diet pills can work.

What’s in it?

Alli is actually made up of a lower dosage of the prescription diet pill, Xenical, which is why Alli is now available over the counter. It comes with a companion book to help teach you about losing weight effectively with Alli diet pills as an aid, including a low-fat diet and low-intensity, fat-burning fitness program. Sections of the accompanying book include eating out and distributing fat consumption throughout your daily meals. Also available through the web version are information on bowel changes, a message board, and articles to inspire you in your struggle to lose weight.

How does it work?

As with any diet pill, you are more likely to achieve results with an overall health plan, so rather than promising what it can’t deliver, Alli recommends an all-around approach. Although makers of Alli promise that the active ingredients inhibit the absorption of approximately ¼ of your dietary fat intake, it will take an extended period of time for you to see weight loss results. The fat cells absorbed by Alli are naturally passed through the body’s digestive system and eliminated.

Who does it work for?

There’s no way to determine if Alli diet pills are actually helping people lose weight, or if the accompanying low-fat diet and exercise are also contributing factors. Either way, Alli has positive reviews on its website and elsewhere. Most importantly, Alli diet pills are supposed to contribute to long-term weight loss, which is more important than overnight success anyway.

Are there possible side effects?

Similar to side affects associated with its prescription version, Xenical, some users report intestinal-related issues while using Alli diet pills. For instance, customers have complained of oily stools or excessive gas, but the company claims that the side effects are maximized when customers continue consuming a high-fat diet. According to the company’s website, since Alli’s purpose is to block the absorption of the fat cells, the more fat someone ingests, the more likely they will have intestinal issues, as their body attempts to eliminate larger amounts of fat cells.

There are also customer concerns regarding the accidental absorption of vitamins with the fat stores. However, as long as you are consuming regular levels of these vitamins, it shouldn’t be a problem, since Alli’s absorption rate is only ¼ of what you consume.

Are there any “bonus” features?

There don’t appear to be any bonus offers on the Alli website, which we view as a positive sign. Manufacturers interested in unloading a bogus product often slash prices in order to interest you in ordering. While the lack of bonus features doesn’t mean Alli diet pills work, it’s definitely a step in the right direction.

The biggest step you can take in the right direction is to consume a low-calorie, high-fat diet, and engage in regular exercise. However, if you’re trying to lose weight and struggling, Alli diet pills are a low-risk over-the-counter product based on years of success with their sister prescription drug, Xenical. If you’re not to the point where a prescription weight loss drug is an option (usually doctors require you to be severely overweight or obsese), but you want to lose weight gradually and keep the weight off, consider Alli diet pills as a boost for your health diet and exercise.

Overall rating:
 
3.7
Customer Support:
 
4.0
Ingredient Quality:
 
4.0
Dosing Schedule:
 
3.0
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