Zantrex-3 is a diet pill claimed to promote weight reduction, increase energy levels and boost metabolism. Zantrex-3 is marketed at both men and women and is intended to be used in conjunction with a balanced diet and regular exercise. It can be purchased online and in high street nutrition stores. Zantrex-3 is sold by Zoller Laboratories, LLC, a holding of Basic Research which is a company based in Salt Lake City. It also manufactures the slimming pills Leptopril and Leptoprin. The company attributes Zantrex-3′s apparent weight loss promoting effects to a “proprietary xanthine-based stimulant.” This looks impressive, but xanthine is in fact just another name for caffeine. Indeed one serving of Zantrex-3 provides more caffeine than 3 cups of coffee. Caffeine can have numerous side effects, particularly in individuals sensitive to stimulants. As the amount of each ingredient in Zantrex-3 is not disclosed, it is difficult to assess if they are present in the required dosages to promote significant weight loss. The official website gives no indication of the manufacturing quality control procedures.

Zantrex-3 side effects

Individuals with high blood pressure, diabetes, heart conditions or who are sensitive to stimulants should not take Zantrex-3. Zantrex-3 contains high amounts of caffeine and common side effects include jitters, anxiety, increased sweating, increase heart rate, increased in blood pressure, nausea, stomach ache, diarrhea, cold sweats, restlessness, shaking, irritability and increased urination.

Zantrex-3 pros

• Zantrex-3 can be conveniently purchased in nutritional stores or online.

Zantrex-3 cons

• There is no clinical evidence posted on the official website supporting the effectiveness of Zantrex-3
• Zantrex-3 contains stimulants, such as caffeine which can cause side effects
• The “benefits” of the Zantrex-3 have been greatly exaggerated
• Zantrex-3 is a propriety formulation so that it is not possible to accurately assess its efficacy
• No details of product quality control and purity are given on the website
• Zantrex-3 does not appear to be sold with a money-back guarantee
• The official Zantrex-3 website lacks convincing customer testimonials

Zantrex-3 ingredients

Zantrex-3 is a propriety blend containing 1312 mg of ingredients per serving (2 capsules). Most of the notable ingredients in Zantrex-3 are stimulants. These include Kola nut extract (stimulant), Yerba mate (a nervous system stimulant), green tea (stimulant and helps boost metabolic rate), caffeine (stimulant) and panax ginseng (promotes healthy blood flow). Looking at the ingredients in greater detail:

Niacin (30 mg): This B vitamin plays a major role in releasing energy from carbohydrates, proteins and fats. This is the why niacin is included in some weight loss supplement formulas.

Yerba mate: A South American shrub that contains the xanthine alkaloids caffeine, theobromine and theophylline. Yerba mate contains about half the caffeine of coffee. Theobromine and theophylline are stimulants, although they have a less potent effect on the central nervous system (CNS) than caffeine. Yerba mate is also a source of chlorogenic acid, a compound which may have some weight loss properties. In one study, yerba mate combined with guarana and damiana resulted in delayed gastric emptying and an increased feeling of fullness (J Hum Nutr Diet. 2001.14(3):243-50).

Caffeine: A recognized fatburner with clinically proven benefits for weight loss (e.g. Am J Clin Nutr. 1989;49(1):44-50; Am J Clin Nutr. 1980;33(5):989-97), although there are indications that it offers greater benefits to leaner individuals (Am J Physiol. 1995;269(4 Pt 1):E671-678).

Guarana: This ingredient is a recognized thermogenic agent with clinically demonstrated benefits for weight loss (e.g. Am J Clin Nutr 1989; 49(1):44-50. Am J Clin Nutr 1980; 33(5):989-997), although some findings indicate that it offers greater benefits to lean individuals that to those who are overweight (Am J Physiol 1995; 269(4 Pt 1):E671-8). Guarana also delivers an energy boost. It is incorporated into many fat burners because of its caffeine content and diuretic properties.

Damiana: A shrub that grows in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is considered to be a strong aphrodisiac with a variety of reported effects on both the hormonal and reproductive systems. Damiana herb has also been used as a general tonic for both men and women, particularly when hormone-related conditions are present. The herb also has antidepressant, anti-anxiety, diuretic and mild laxative effects.

Schizonepeta: Also known as Schizonepeta tenuifolia, Japanese catnip, Japanese mint, jing jie and tenuifolia, this herb has been used for centuries in both traditional Japanese and Chinese medicine. In Japanese medicine, it is typically used to treat various skin infections, such as carbuncle and mastitis. The Chinese use Schizonepeta to treat health problems such as chills, sore throat, fever and headaches. This herb is also believed to help expel wind, remove pathogenic factors and stop bleeding.

Green tea: Green tea contains caffeine that speeds up the body’s metabolic rate. The combination of green tea (standardized for caffeine and ECGC) and caffeine has been demonstrated to promote weight loss (Obes Res. 2005; 13: 1195-204).

Piper nigum: Piper nigrum or black pepper has been shown in clinical research to increase the absorption of ingredients in nutritional supplement formulations. It is possible that the use of Piper nigrum may increase the side effects of certain supplements due to increased absorption.

Tibetan and panax ginseng: Ginseng has been used in China for many years and can increase stamina and vigor especially in men. Ginseng has the ability to act as a thermogenic. It increases bodily heat therefore increasing metabolism and the burning of fat. Recent research has found that the some varieties and components of this herb aid in treating obesity and diabetes. In 2008, the Phytotheraphy Research Journal published the results of a study on ginseng for weight loss. The study confirmed that ginsenoside Rg3, a constituent of red ginseng, inhibits cells from fully absorbing and storing fat.

Maca root: Maca (Lepidium peruvianum) is a small root vegetable originally used by the Inca for strength. Maca is grown in the Andes mountains of Peru and is also eaten as an aphrodisiac. Maca contains nutrients that are believed to boost thyroid function and stimulate weight loss, although there are no studies to collaborate this. Taking large amounts of maca can cause gas. Avoid maca if pregnant or breastfeeding because no safety data is currently available.

Cocoa: The nut of the plant Theobroma cacao contains relatively low levels of caffeine together with theobromine, the primary metabolite of caffeine. Other plant chemicals in cocoa include PEA (phenylethylamine) and tyramine. PEA has been demonstrated to enhance mental alertness. Tyramine has a similar structure to epinephrine and norepinephrine.

Kola nut: The Kola nut (Cola nitida), is African in origin, and grows on several native tree species such as the Cola nitida or Cola vera, and the Abata Cola (Cola acuminata). Kola nuts contain between 1-1.5% caffeine by weight. These nuts are also a source of antioxidants and contain small amounts of theobromine, d-catechin, l-epicatechin, kolatin, phlobaphens, antocyanin pigment kola red, betaine and protein. Kola extract is a popular ingredient in fat-loss supplements due to its ability to increase focus, suppress appetite, aid digestion and act as a diuretic.

Thea sinensis complex: Decoction of the leaves is used as stimulant and to relieve fatigue. Thea is also believed to soothe headaches and aid digestion.

Zantrex-3 dosage

Two Zantrex-3 capsules are taken with a glass of water, 15-30 minutes before main meals. There are 84 capsules per container. Do not exceed 6 capsules per day. Individuals sensitive to the effects of xanthines (i.e. caffeine and caffeine-like stimulants), should start by taking only one capsule as directed above and do not exceed a total of two capsules per day. Limit the use of caffeine-containing medications, foods or beverages while taking this product. Zantrex-3 is not intended for use by pregnant or lactating women. Consult your physician before use especially if you are sensitive to stimulants. Zantrex-3 is for occasional use only.

Zantrex-3 guarantee

Zantrex-3 does not appear to have a money-back guarantee.

Zantrex-3 conclusion

The primary ingredients listed for Zantrex-3 are mostly stimulants. The high caffeine content in Zantrex-3 means that many users will experience a pulse of “nervous” energy. Although there are numerous positive testimonials, many have reported side effects. On a more positive note, Zantrex-3 can be easily purchased online and in stores. However, this weight loss supplement does not come with a money-back guarantee. The manufacturers of Zantrex-3 are open about its composition, so that it is possible to research the ingredients beyond the information provided on the website. However, there are no concentrations for the extensive number of ingredients contained in this formula listed on the bottle. It is therefore impossible to evaluate if there are enough of any of the ingredients to be effective at the recommended daily dose.

Zantrex-3 contact details

Web sites: http://www.zantrex3.com/ www.zollerlabs.com

Address: 5742 West Harold Gatty Drive
Salt Lake City, UT 84116
United States

Tel: 801-517-7000
Fax: 801-517-7001