Entries from November 2008 ↓

Summary

Anoretix contains nine patented and clinically tested weight loss ingredients. Actual clinical studies have not been carried out on the efficacy of the product itself, or potential side effects. Studies, however, have been undertaken on the individual ingredients.

Anoretix Ingredients

Anoretix‘s ingredients are:

Super CitriMax

Super CitriMax has been demonstrated clinically to reduce appetite, burn fat and lower blood cholesterol levels. The active ingredient, hydroxycitric acid (HCA), in Super Citrimax is derived from the rind of the Garcinia cambogia fruit. This fruit is native to India and has been a part of the diet there for centuries.

In a study published in 2004, Sprague-Dawley rats were given Citrimax at varying concentrations over a 90 day period. The highest dose administered was equivalent to 25 times the recommended human dose. At the conclusion of the study no significant differences in organ weight and blood chemistry was found suggesting that Citrimax is a safe dietary supplement for weight loss. (Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, 2004).

A review of 14 additional studies demonstrated that HCA and Super Citrimax caused no adverse side effects. The reviewers concluded that the quantity and quality of scientific evidence is sufficient to support the safe, supplemental use of HCA at doses of up to 2,800 mg daily [4,667 mg of Super Citrimax] (Food and Chemical Toxicology, 2004).

A clinical study carried out at St. Luke’s-Roosevelt Hospital at Columbia University found that side effects of HCA did not vary significantly from those individuals taking a placebo. The most common reported side effects were headaches, upper respiratory, and gastrointestinal symptoms. There are no known medication interactions associated with the use of HCA. However, patients taking oral hypoglycemic agents are advised to use caution before using HCA, due to the possibility of exacerbating the action of hypoglycemic medications. Consult a physician before commencing use.

Individuals diagnosed with Diabetes mellitus should use extreme caution in taking HCA/Garcinia cambogia due to its glycemic action. Individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia syndromes should also avoid using HCA. Pending additional research HCA as found in Super Citrimax is viewed as safe and non-toxic for most healthy adult individuals.

Tonalin CLA

Tonalin CLA is extracted from safflower oil. Many years of research indicate that CLA (conjugated linoleic acid) suppresses the enzyme that promotes the storage of body fat. Tonalin CLA is the highest quality form of CLA available. Clinical studies have demonstrated that there are no adverse side effects associated with the use of Tonalin CLA when taken at the recommended dose. However, some users have reported stomach upset, stomach ache and in some cases mild diarrhea. Some people report feeling slightly green or nauseous after taking their CLA, and there have been isolated cases of gastrointestinal upset or loose stools.

Advantra-Z

Advantra-Z is a patented form of Synephrine, an alkaloid that is derived from Citrus aurantium. It is considered as a safe alternative to the now banned Ephedra and is believed to promote thermogenesis. Manufacturers claim that Synephrine provides the “fat burning” effects of Ephedra, but without side effects such as sleeplessness, jitters, elevated blood pressure, etc. There are studies, however, that indicate that Synephrine can elevate blood pressure and heart rate (e.g. Ann. Pharmacother. [2006] 40(1):53-7).

NeOpuntia

NeOpuntia (Opuntia ficus-indica) is a patented cactus extract composed of soluble and insoluble dietary fibers. These fibers are claimed to bind dietary fat and thus prevents it from being absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. There are no reported side effects in using NeOpuntia. As with all other natural fibers it is important to drink 2 to 3 quarts (2-3 liters) of water daily while using NeOpuntia. Pregnant and nursing women should not use NeOpuntia.

Phase 2

Phase 2 is is extracted from white kidney beans. It has been shown clinically that it can neutralize the digestive enzyme alpha amylase, preventing it from converting carbohydrate into glucose and subsequently fat. In the studies on Phase 2 , one of the principal side effects reported was excessive gas. Other side effects included anxiety or restlessness.

ForsLean

ForsLean (Coleus forskholii) is a herb that has been demonstrated to enhance lipolysis. It may also inhibit fat storage. A clinical study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition (2005: 2(2): 54-62) indicated that there were no significant side effects – despite previous research indicating that Coleaus forskohlii may cause an increase in heart rate and decrease in blood pressure.

7-Keto-DHEA

7-Keto-DHEA is a naturally occurring metabolite of DHEA, a steroid hormone produced in the body, and believed to enhance metabolism. Although DHEA has received a great deal of attention due to its potential ability to slow the aging process, 7-keto-DHEA has recently come under the spotlight. Researchers now believe that it may provide all the benefits of DHEA, but without the potential side effects. Because 7-keto-DHEA cannot trigger potentially dangerous levels of estrogen and testosterone in the body, which can occur in some patients who use DHEA, scientists now consider that 7-keto DHEA may be a safer alternative.

ChromeMate

ChromeMate (Chromium Polynicotinate) is a niacin-bound chromium complex that plays an important role in the regulation of insulin function, and the maintenance of healthy blood sugar and cholesterol levels. There are no reported side effects in using ChromeMate.

Bioperine

Bioperine is a standardized extract from the fruit of Piper nigrum L (black pepper), or Piper longum L (long pepper), that contains 95 percent Piperine. Piperine, in the patented form of Bioperine increases the body’s natural thermogenic activity. It also enhances the body’s absorption of nutrients. No significant Bioperine side effects have been reported so far. Minor gastrointestinal discomfort or GI symptoms may occur with high doses of Bioperine. Studies have not been carried out to determine the side effects of chronic supplementation with Bioperine.

Conclusion

Anoretix has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Currently, however, no pronounced side effects associated with taking Anoretix have been reported.

Related article: How Good is Anoretix?

Common misspellings: Anoretex; Anortix; Anretix; Anorix

Acai berries (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) are dark purple in color. They are very rich in antioxidants, amino acids, essential fatty acids, minerals, phytosterols and vitamins such as thiamine. Acai berries are consumed raw as a food and also as a juice or in capsules. The juice is used commercially in the manufacture of ice cream, jelly, and liquors and as a natural food colorant. Acai berries have a remarkable concentration of antioxidants with 10-30 times the anthocyanins as are found in red wine. Acai berries also contain monounsaturated (healthy) fats, dietary fiber and phytosterols. Acai has gained incredible popularity after being labelled by Dr. Nicholas Perricone as a “Superfood for Age-Defying Beauty” on the Oprah Winfrey show.

What is the recommended Acai berry dosage?

Acai berries are eaten as a food. There are no official guidelines on the proper dosage of Acai extract. Very limited research has been carried out on the Acai berry, juice or capsules. The therapeutic daily dosage of anthocyanins, and other flavonoids from other sources, ranges from 200 to 1500mg daily. This dosage may be extrapolated to Acai berry extracts.

Related articles

The Acai Berry and Weight Loss

The Amazing Acai Berry

Who manufactures Bioperine?

Bioperine is a registered trademark and a product of Sabinsa Corporation.

Sabinsa Corporation is a manufacturer and supplier of herbal extracts, cosmeceuticals, minerals and specialty fine chemicals. Over the past 9 years, Sabinsa has marketed more than 50 standardized botanical extracts and privately funded several clinical studies in support of these products. With more than 100 scientists working full time conducting ongoing research both in India and the United States, Sabinsa continues to develop and patent phytonutrients for the world market. All products intended for human consumption are certified Kosher. For more information visit www.sabinsa.com.

Bioperine is a standardized piperine extract. It is obtained from the fruits of the Piper nigrum L. (black pepper) and/or Piper longum L. (long pepper) plants. The pepper berries are harvested in Southeast Asia just prior to ripening and then sun dried. Bioperine contains 95% piperine.

Bioperine is believed to enhance the absorption of essential vitamins, minerals amino acids and antioxidants into the blood. It has also been found that Bioperine promotes increased metabolism, accelerating the rate at which the body burns fat.

Side effects of Bioperine

No life-threatening side effects associated with the use of Bioperine have been reported. However, anybody considering taking diet supplements to lose weight may be subject to various side effects associated with other ingredients.

Sabinsa claims that Bioperine has been demonstrated to increase the absorption of nutrients in nutritional supplement formulations in clinical studies. Whether this claimed increase in absorption, even if true, makes a practical difference and improves health is not clear. Most herbal and nutritional products are sold in higher than normal required dosages, and additional absorption, even if true, may or may not be beneficial. It is possible that the use of Bioperine may increase the side effects of certain supplements.

Minor gastrointestinal discomfort or GI symptoms may occur with high doses of Bioperine. Insufficient human studies have been carried out to determine the side effects of chronic supplementation with Bioperine. It is quite likely that the small amounts of Bioperine could provide health benefits while larger amounts could be toxic, or damaging to the liver and other organs.

The following side effects have been associated with Bioperine at recommended doses: Moderate diarrhea reported infrequently; Bronchospasm, Redness of Skin, Itching, Rash, Reaction due to an Allergy – all reported rarely. If medications are taken, it is important to be aware that Bioperine could enhance their absorption, potentially magnifying their side effects.

It is always advisable to consult a physician before taking any weight loss product, regardless of whether or not it contains Bioperine.