Ranking the best hair loss treatments of 2018

Many people seek out hair loss treatments as a way to regrow hair or keep the hair they have.

For men, hair loss is the rule, not the exception: half of all men have visible hair loss by age 50, and for many men, the process of hair loss can start early in their 20s.

Here's the cold truth: Regrowing hair comes down to getting a hair transplant.

Because its not good for business to tell men (or women) that, the Internet is flooded with hair loss solutions that promise to regrow hair.

If you're dead serious about your hair loss, you need to do two things:

1) get on finasteride (Proscar), a drug that blocks the testosterone (DHT) that is responsible for your hair falling out…(you need a doctors note if you're in the USA).

(this halts your hair loss, but takes about a year to see the effects…be careful, as some men get side effects of loss of libido and weak erections, but less than 3%)

2) get a hair transplant

(Most of hollywood does this anyway, but its becoming more mainstream. Don't go to Pakistan or India or some place to save money, there's a good chance you won't like the results.)

If your hair loss is prominent in the crown area, Minodoxil (Rogaine) can work to regrow some hair, too. But that should not be a stand-alone solution if you're serious about your hair loss.

That's it. For regrowing hair.

There's some laser hats that are becoming popular, but the verdict is still out on that.

That doesn't mean that other “hair treatments” won't help the hair you have – they absolutely will.

They'll make your hair thicker, healthier (and grow faster, too).

Thats where this list comes into play. Its short on purpose, because most stuff out there doesn't work.

1. Finasteride

Finasteride is the place to start when it comes to treating hair loss. It’s highly effective, and has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat hair loss.

The downside? It’s prescription-only, so you’ll need to ask your doctor about it. This medication was originally developed to treat an enlarged prostate, but researchers quickly discovered it was an impressively effective treatment for hair loss, too.

A small percentage of men do suffer mild to moderate side effects, but for most men, finasteride should be the first-line option.

2. Rogaine Foam (5% minoxidil)

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One of the other FDA approved treatments for hair loss is minoxidil, a compound that is applied directly to your scalp twice per day.

Its use is also the result of a lucky pharmaceutical discovery: it was originally being researched for another condition, but researchers noticed that patients receiving minoxidil tended to spontaneously regrow hair. It’s one of the best-researched treatments for hair loss, and it’s especially effective at treating what’s called “vertex balding”–bald spots on the top of your head.

Why Rogaine? It’s got the right concentration (5%) and the right delivery mechanism (foam). Other products offer different concentrations, or a liquid vial for applying the compound to the scalp, but the Rogaine foam method is the one that’s supported by the scientific research.

3. Nizoral A-D Shampoo

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This shampoo was developed to treat dandruff, but did you know that the same fungus that causes dandruff can contribute to hair loss?

Moreover, research suggests that the active ingredient in Nizoral A-D, called ketoconazole, can actively fight inflammation at the scalp, leading to hair regrowth. The current best practice is to use Nizoral A-D in place of your normal shampoo three times per week.

4. TruePure Biotin Serum

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Biotin is one supplement with a solid track record when it comes to improving the condition of your hair. Stronger and better-growing hair follicles are what you’re after, so TruePure’s biotin serum is an excellent way to accomplish this.

It has additional ingredients like red clover and caffeine, which are designed to further amplify the activity of your hair follicles.

5. PureBiology RevivaHair

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PureBiology makes a topical ointment that you can apply directly to your scalp to help boost your hair production. It combines a number of ingredients that can help with hair strength and growth, like biotin and keratin.

It’s very well-reviewed, and while it’s not a substitute for the top-rated hair loss treatments, it’s a worthwhile addition to your routine.

6. Zhou Hairfluence

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Zhou Nutrition has a strong reputation for well-crafted supplements, and that’s definitely the case with Hairfluence.

The strategy employed with this supplement is to deliver all of the requisite ingredients to grow and strengthen hair, plus some extras that may help. It has a balanced mix of B vitamins, biotin, collagen, keratin, and MSM, and it’s extremely well-received by its users.

7. HairMax Prisma 9 LaserComb

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HairMax uses a technique called low level laser therapy to directly stimulate hair follicles to produce more and stronger hair. The scientific evidence for this treatment is sparse, but there are some studies that exist supporting it.

It’s not as easy to use as some of the other treatments on this list, so thanks to this and the inconvenience of using the comb, it doesn’t rank particularly highly, but it’s worth a shot if you want to attack your hair loss with every available tool.

8. Ultrax Labs Hair Surge

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Could caffeine in shampoo jump start your hair follicles the same way a cup of coffee can jump-start your brain? That’s the proposition that Ultrax Labs Hair Surge is based upon.

There’s some preliminary research indicating that caffeine in shampoo can penetrate down to the hair follicles in a matter of minutes, but whether this actually boosts hair growth over the long term is still up in the air.

9. Pura D’or Hair Thinning Therapy

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Pura D’or advertises its hair serum as containing many of the key ingredients for hair growth and stimulation. 

While it does have biotin and niacin, it also has a tremendous number of other ingredients which haven’t been proven useful for treating hair loss. It’s asking a lot to use this serum for just a couple of its ingredients.

10. Cherioll Hair Serum

Cherioll promises great results with their Hair Serum, but what’s in it? It’s mostly herbal, and the formulation is based around ginseng, ginger, sesame, and ginkgo extracts. These are fairly off the beaten path when it comes to hair loss supplements, and haven’t been studied scientifically. If you go with this supplement, you’re mostly trusting their formula experts to come up with something that works.

Hair loss treatments benefits and side effects

1. Finasteride and Minoxidil are the only 2 PROVEN to work

The best treatments for hair loss out there are finasteride and minoxidil, or Rogaine. 

A small amount of men have reported side effects taking finasteride, but that number seems to be less than 3%.

Rogaine is consistently safe in men and can cure hair loss over 50% of cases (1). It also seems to be more effective in the crown area.

The one note with minoxidil is that it needs to be applied early.  This drug works by restarted dormant hair follicles for those with male pattern baldness.  If too much time passes between hair loss and treatment, you may not be able to revive your hair follicles and continue balding.

2. Biotin may improve hair proteins

Biotin is one of the best known, and best researched, hair health supplements.  While it can improve hair health, it cannot cause hair growth by itself if you’re not deficient in biotin.  It can be difficult to be biotin deficient because you need such a small amount every day. 

In addition, biotin doesn’t work in isolation, so you’ll need other vitamins and minerals to create a complete hair health plan of action.

3. Keratin can be effective

Keratin hair treatments are popular and said to straighten out hair to make it more manageable while enhancing color and shine. 

There are no dangerous side effects from this treatment, but it seems keratin products can be packaged with formaldehyde making it unsafe.

4. DHA (omega 3 fatty acid found in fish oil) prevents hair loss

Omega 3 fatty acids (EFA) are common hair supplement said to increase hair shine and hair health.  Studies show that these essential fatty acids can support skin and hair health, however the effect is insignificant unless you are actually deficient in these essential fatty acids.

For example, one study saw that chemotherapy patients that suffered from hair loss could prevent further damage by supplementing with DHA (2).

DHA is one supplement you shouldn’t be skimping out on.

5. Hair growth supplements containing too much selenium could cause hair loss

Selenium is an important micronutrient, but a small amount goes a long way.  While selenium is key for growth and reproductive health, if you consume too much you can cause hair loss (3).  Just over 400 mcg per day can lead to hair loss, which is about 4-5 Brazil nuts a day! 

When supplementing, it is important to be aware of the different food and non-food sources of vitamins and minerals you consume to be sure not to cause your body any damage.

6. Conventional antidepressants can lead to baldness

Hair loss can also be caused as a side effect from conventional antidepressants. 

Specifically, tricyclic antidepressants such as Amitriptyline, Amoxapine, and Nortriptyline (4). 

Similarly, herbs such as St. John’s Wort can lead to hair loss through a similar mechanism (5).  If you’re on antidepressant medications and experiencing side-effects definitely talk with your doctor to see if modest lifestyle changes such as improving nutrition and exercise can lessen or eliminate the need for antidepressants.

7. Zinc supplementation supports faster hair growth

Low zinc levels may be to blame for thinning balding hair.  Zinc is essential in processing vitamin A to produce carotene (6).  Without carotene, your hair won’t grow as fast as it did in the past leading to slower and slower hair growth until your hairline starts to recede faster than it can grow.

8. Han Lian Cao is a Taiwanese hair loss herb you should avoid

Similar to He Shou Wu, Han Lian Cao is another herbal remedy for hair loss.  Unfortunately, there is not much science backing the claim that Han Lian Cao supports hair growth and better hair coloring with use (7).

In fact, there are similar issues to sourcing Han Lian Cao as often these supplements can become contaminated with heavy metals or other toxic ingredients.

9. Pumpkin seed oil can boost hair growth by 40%

Men with male pattern baldness were treated with 400 mg of pumpkin seed oil a day for 5 months.  After 24 weeks, the men treated with the pumpkin seed oil saw 40% more hair growth than those with no treatment on the placebo group (8).

If you’re looking to improve hair growth, having pumpkin seed oil in your diet seems like a good idea.  Otherwise, having a few pumpkin seeds thrown in is an excellent idea to support health hair and healthy hormones to keep your hair looking its best (plus they taste pretty darn good).

10. Frankincense can be supplemented for stronger roots

Boswellia serrata, or Frankincense, is a common ingredient from Indian used in hair health products.  While Frankincense doesn’t grow hair, it does support the health of hair roots so you are able to strengthen the hair you have or set up a stronger foundation to regrow hair (9). 

While it is not a proven hair growth remedy, it is often added into many formulas to try and improve results.

11. Supplement with a dash of copper for better hair pigmentation

Hair is often used to assess the mineral status of the body.  It’s similar to how you can chop a tree down to find its age by counting the rings.  As you age and your hair grows you have a few months- to years- of a snap shot depending on how long your hair is. 

Your hair can show how much arsenic, zinc, copper, and other minerals you have had in the body.

If your hair is looking lackluster and not as brilliantly dark as you’d like, there is evidence that by supplementing with copper, or including more copper-rich foods in your diet, you can improve your hair color (10).  

12. Caffeine decreases levels of hormone that slow hair growth down

Interestingly enough, hair growth seems to be a hormonal issue.  When your hormones are optimized you not only gain lean muscle mass, burn more fat, and feel more energetic, but also your hair looks fantastic. 

Male pattern baldness seems to be a hormonal imbalance because the hair follicles are dependent on hormones such as DHEA and testosterone to mature and start growing hair. 

Caffeine seems to override this mechanism and stop whatever is holding back the hair follicles from maturing to increase hair growth modestly (11).

13. Iodine levels can indirectly lead to hair loss

The thyroid is a key thermostat in the body in terms of vitality and energy metabolism.  Without enough iodine, your thyroid can slow down and lead to a whole slew of side effects.  One such side effect is hair loss (12).  However, by correcting an iodine deficiency you should be able to reverse these symptoms and increase your health if you start early.

14. Use Cellulose for stronger hair

Cellulose, the strong fiber from plant cell walls, has been seen to reinforce hair fibers for added strength (13).  This makes your hair more resilient from breaking or loss, allowing you to have thick healthy hair that can look great no matter what.

15. Silicon can boost hair thickness

Silicon, found in raisins, brown rice, green beans, oats, nuts, root vegetables, and spinach, has been seen to increase hair thickness (15).  Again, you can take supplements that supply silicon but you can easily find enough in your diet – even red wine has a significant amount of silicon.

16. Collagen is hotly debated for hair health

Collagen is a protein structure that essentially holds everything together in the human body.  This includes hair, too.

By the hair follicle are collage proteins that help to support and ground the follicle so the hair can grow long and strong without worry of easily falling out (16). 

The issue seems to be on how this interaction works specifically when you supplement with collagen because you’ll have to degrade it through the digestive process.  More research is needed to see if collagen supplementation can truly improve hair health.

17. He Shou Wu is a Traditional Chinese Medicine hair growth herb

This literally translates to “Black Haired Mr. He” and refers to an agent ancient story from China about a man who started off very weak with graying thinning hair. 

Mr. He then started to take He Shou Wu every single day until he was able to reverse aging and restore his thinning gray hair to a luxurious black hair.  He was also able to grow stronger and exhibit other signs of youth such as fathering a large family. 

While He Shou Wu isn’t studied extensively, side effects are infrequent.  Most commonly you’ll see mild diarrhea. In rare cases you’ll find allergic reaction, although He Shou Wu is safe for general population (17).

With less than stellar sources of He Shou Wu, you’ll have to watch out for liver inflammation.  Many Asian herbal preparations of this variety have unlisted toxic ingredients due to poor quality or tampering. 

At the end of the day, the research doesn't seem to support that it should actually supports hair loss.

The bottom line: Avoid.

18. Use hydrotherapy to get rid of dandruff

Aside from supplements, there are several lifestyle factors that can improve the health of your hair and scalp.  One of the big issues that kills your hair’s health is dandruff. 

Essentially, your scalp becomes overly dry and the skin begins to flake affecting your hair at its roots.  By choking off your hair’s roots you’re making your hair start to thin out.  This cycle can turn vicious as less hair means less protection for the skin on your head, leading to worse dandruff and greater hair loss.

One cause of this is hot showers.  By taking hot showers and washing your hair in this hot water, you are washing away the natural oils in your hair that work to keep your scalp happy and hair radiant (18). 

Without oil in your hair you begin to see your scalp flake and start the vicious cycle of hair loss.  Alternate cold water in your shower to wash your hair will support scalp health and increase the shine and strength of your hair.

19. Use baking soda and apple cider vinegar to battle hair acidity

Another issue at work here is your hair’s acidity.  Most conventional shampoos or conditioners will just as easily wipe out your hair's natural oils and ruin the environment on the scalp, making it easy for you to begin losing hair (19). 

Common hair care methods include using baking soda and apple cider vinegar. 

The baking soda works as an alkaline solution to wash your hair, then the apple cider vinegar comes in as an acid to remove the baking soda and condition your hair.  It only takes about 1 tablespoon of each in a pint of water to do the trick.  I recommend using a squeeze bottle for convenience.

20. Be careful about hair care scams

As you can see, there are many anecdotal stories and case studies on different ingredients providing different benefits for hair health.  While there a few reputable supplement companies out there with products that give you results, there are twice as many companies that have inferior products and will gladly take your money (20).

Always be wary of marketing promises and be sure to look out for the ingredient list to see what you’re truly getting.

Recap

For those developing baldness right now, finasteride or Rogaine or other treatments using minoxidil is your best bet along with taking better care of your hair.

Adding a biotin, kertatine and vitamin regime can help with the hair that you have, but it won't regrow hair.

For regrowing hair, there are hair transplants.

https://bodynutrition.org/hair-loss-treatments/

Fit Affinity review: Weight loss system for women?

Fit Affinity is a brand of weight loss supplements and fat burners for women. 

This line of supplements consists of three different products: Tight Tummy for Her, Lean Fat Burner for Her and Firm Body Sculptor for Her.

These three products are designed to work in synergy together to help you reach your slimming and weight loss goals.

Although they're solid, they did not make our top 3 fat burners for women.

Attention Fit Affinity readers: Click here for our #1 rated fat burner for women

Benefits

The three products that make up the Fit Affinity range of women’s supplements take a multi level approach to weight loss. They are intended to be taken alongside each other for maximum effect.

Fit Affinity contains many natural ingredients which are commonly found in weight loss supplements, and are well known for their effects.

It contains ingredients such as: caffeine, green tea, cayenne powder, garcinia cambogia and probiotics.

Fit Affinity offers the following benefits:

Reduce Bloating

Stomach bloating is a common complaint among women.

It is caused by a multitude of factors such as a poor diet, stressful lifestyle, an imbalance in gut bacteria and some medications. (1)

It can be uncomfortable and most women are embarrassed as to how they can look with a bloated stomach.

Fit Affinity Tight Tummy For Her claims to be able to reduce stomach bloating and improve digestive health.

It achieves this using a special blend of all natural ingredients, such as herbs and probiotics which calm, balance and tighten the stomach.  

Boost Metabolism

As you probably already know, burning more calories than we consume is the key to weight loss.

If we have not burned all the calories we have consumed in a day, these extra calories will be stored and weight increases

Our bodies have a base rate at which we burn calories and expend energy just to survive. This is known as our Basal Metabolic Rate or BMR.

This is the amount of calories you will burn without any additional exercise.

Our BMR will vary depending on factors such as age, weight, body composition and gender. Women generally have a lower BMR than men. (2)

Fit Affinity Lean Fat Burner for Her claims to have thermogenic, or metabolism boosting properties.  

It uses ingredients such as green tea, caffeine, cayenne, and alpha lipoic acid to boost the metabolism, increase energy and burn fat.

Suppresses Appetite

If you are trying to lose weight, it is very important cut back on the amount of calories you are consuming.

This means reducing your intake of food, which usually leads to hunger and cravings.

As sections of the digestive system sense that they are becoming empty, signals are sent to our brains which cause contractions in the lining of the stomach. (3)

This is what causes the sensation of hunger.

Fit Affinity Firm Body Sculptor contains ingredients that work to suppress the appetite, helping you to beat cravings and stick to your diet.

Ingredients

Fit Affinity Weight Loss bundle contains a blend of many ingredients across its three products. Below we dissect some of the most powerful active compounds.

Garcinia Cambogia

Garcinia cambogia is a fruit that grows in the forests of India and South-East Asia.

It has a chemical compound called hydroxycitric acid or HCA.

This compound has been clinically proven to inhibit the production of fat in the body by inhibiting the action of the enzyme citrate lyase. (4)

There is also some evidence that serotonin levels may be increased by consuming this fruit, which in turn can help to suppress your appetite. (5)

Garcinia cambogia is an ingredient in Fit Affinity Firm Body Sculptor.

Acetyl L-Carnitine HCI

Acetyl L-Carnitine HCI (or L-Carnitine) is an amino acid that is naturally created within our bodies. It is used by our cells in the process of creating energy.

L-carnitine can boost energy and athletic performance. A study found that it prolonged the time before footballers reached exhaustion. (6)

An energy boost is helpful if you are ramping up your exercise regime while restricting calories.

L-carnitine is included as an ingredient in both Fit Affinity Lean Fat Burner and Fit Affinity Firm Body Sculptor.

Green Tea Extract

Green tea extract contains high levels of caffeine which is a popular stimulant.

Caffeine is well known for its’ energy boosting properties and has also been proven to boost the metabolism – helping with weight loss. (7)

Green tea also contains compounds known as Catechins.

Catechins have been shown to have antioxidant properties and also contribute to the reduction of body fat. (8)  

Green tea is an ingredient found in every product relating to the Fit Affinity Weight Loss Bundle.

Alpha Lipoic Acid

Alpha lipoic acid or ALA is a mitochondrial compound which is very important role for in the body’s energy functions. (9)

It has antioxidant properties and works with mitochondria, the centre of energy production within our cells.

Supplementation with alpha lipoic acid has proven to promote weight loss. (10)

Alpha lipoic acid has also been shown to increase metabolism. (11)

ALA is present in the Fit Affinity Lean Fat Burner supplement.

Cayenne

Cayenne pepper is a spicy herb that is often used in hot dishes.

The active ingredient in cayenne pepper is the compound capsaicin.

There is evidence that capsaicin can increase the metabolism and the oxidation of fat. (12)

Cayenne is included in Fit Affinity Lean Fat Burner.

Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA)

Conjugated linoleic acid or CLA is a fatty acid found in full fat dairy products, cheese, beef and butter.

CLA is a very popular ingredient in weight loss and fat burning supplements. It has been shown to maintain lean mass when dieting. (13)

There is also evidence that CLA can help assist with fat loss and reduce appetite. (14, 15)

CLA is an ingredient in Fit Affinity Firm Body Sculptor.

Ginger Root

Ginger is a spice that is commonly used in Asian cooking. It also has history in many ancient therapies such as traditional Chinese medicine and ayurveda.

Ginger has been used for centuries in Chinese medicine to calm the digestion.

It has what is known as a ‘carminative’ effect on the gut. This means it helps to break up and dispel intestinal gas. Therefore ginger is a useful remedy in the treatment of stomach bloating. (16)

Ginger is an active ingredient in Fit Affinity Tight Tummy.

Peppermint Leaf

Peppermint is a plant commonly used for its aroma and taste properties.

The oil from the peppermint plant also has a ‘carminative’ effect, and can be used internally as an intestinal and digestive aid.  

It has been proven to relax the stomach and intestines, reducing digestive discomfort. (17)

Peppermint has also been shown to be an effective treatment to reduce pain caused by inflammatory bowel syndrome (IBS). (18)

Peppermint is included in Fit Affinity Tight Tummy.

Probiotic Blend

Fit Affinity Tight Tummy includes a probiotic that contains the friendly microbes lactobacillus and bifidobacterium.

Lactobacillus is commonly found in foods like yogurt based products and is aimed at promoting a healthy gut. It is a type of probiotic – a substance which promotes the growth of microorganisms such as intestinal flora.

Bifidobacterium naturally colonises the human gut. There is evidence it can reduce inflammation caused by bowel conditions. (19)

Lactobacillus fights bad bacteria in the gut, supporting the correct balance in the digestive system. (20)

Ensuring that your gut has the right balance of good and bad bacteria is known to improve health and energy levels. (21)

Side Effects

You may experience side effects such as gas, stomach ache, nausea, insomnia, fast heartbeat and headaches.

If you are sensitive to caffeine you could feel ‘jittery’ when taking this product. This is because all the supplements contain ingredients high in caffeine.

If you feel unwell, stop taking Fit Affinity and speak to your physician.

Recommended Dosage

Two capsules of Fit Affinity Fat Burner should be taken daily. You should take the capsules either with breakfast, OR before exercise with food.

Two capsules of Fit Affinity Tight Tummy should be taken daily after breakfast. If you are feeling very bloated, Fit Affinity recommends taking two capsules after every meal. (Do not exceed six capsules per day.)

Take one capsule of Fit Affinity Firm Body Sculptor after every meal. Up to a maximum of three capsules per day.

FAQ

What is Fit Affinity? Fit Affinity is a range of dietary supplements formulated for women who want to lose weight. They are designed to be used together for maximum all round results or alternatively you can use them individually to target specific areas.  

How to take Fit Affinity? Take two capsules of the fat burner with breakfast OR before exercise with food. Take two capsules of Tight Tummy with breakfast. (You can take two capsules three times a day with meals if you are feeling very bloated). Take one capsule of Body Sculptor after meals, up to three times a day.

Who should use Fit Affinity? Fit Affinity should be used by women who are trying to lose weight and reduce bloating.

How much does Fit Affinity cost? Fit Affinity costs $79.99 for the pack of three supplements with 90 capsules each.

Is Fit Affinity safe? Fit Affinity is a relatively new product and is not approved by the FDA. However the ingredients used in the products are natural and widely available. As long as you use according to directions Fit Affinity should be safe to use.

Is Fit Affinity legal? Yes, Fit Affinity is legal.

Where to buy Fit Affinity? Fit Affinity can be purchased via their official website or from Amazon.

Do they ship Fit Affinity worldwide? Yes, Fit Affinity does ship worldwide when ordered from their website.

Does Fit Affinity really work? Fit Affinity contains well known active ingredients that have been clinically proven to have beneficial effects for weight loss, appetite suppression and digestive health. Individual results will always vary.

How long do you have to take Fit Affinity before seeing results? Individual results will differ from person to person. If used in combination with a healthy diet and exercise program you could see results within one month.

Are there any Fit Affinity alternatives? Leanbean.

Summary

There is evidence to suggest the ingredients in Fit Affinity can help burn fat, reduce the appetite and help support digestive health.

However, Fit Affinity may not be suitable for everyone. One of the core ingredients included in every supplement is high in caffeine, which means those with sensitivities may not be able to use it.

Overall, Fit Affinity is a unique pack of supplements which have the potential to assist you reach your health and weight loss goals.

Attention Fit Affinity readers: Click here for our #1 rated fat burner for women

https://bodynutrition.org/fit-affinity/

Relacore review: The ultimate fat burning kit?

Relacore is a weight loss pill that claims to specifically help you lose abdominal fat.

The theory behind: To focus on reducing levels of stress hormones, targeting the cause of abdominal fat and help shift it.  

Relacore is also meant to help improve mood, lower anxiety, boost energy and fight fatigue.

Attention Relacore readers: Click here for our #1 rated fat burner for women

Benefits

The manufacturers of Relacore claims it works by reducing the stress hormones  that may cause someone to hold on to abdominal fat.

It also claims to improve general mood and energy levels.

Relacore is not specific about how it blocks stress, or which exact ingredient has this effect.

In fact, the Relacore website does not make the full ingredient list available. We had to find this information elsewhere.

Some of the ingredients in Relacore are commonly used such as asian ginseng – whereas others, like chinese skullcap root, are more obscure.

With this in mind, we will now investigate the benefits of Relacore in more detail:

Burns Fat

Relacore says it can help you to lose weight all over the body, but that it specifically targets abdominal fat.

Our bodies store fat when we consume more calories than we are using up, or ‘burning off’ through activity and bodily functions.

Relacore claims that it reduces abdominal fat by blocking the stress hormone cortisol.

There is some evidence that cortisol can contribute to fat being stored around the abdominal area. (1)

Boosts Energy

When we are trying to lose weight, this almost always means restricting our food and calorie intake.

But of course, when we are eating less, we are also reducing our sources of energy.

People on low calorie diets often experience fatigue as a result of their limited energy intake.

Low energy can interfere with your diet and exercise plans. If you feel too tired you could miss your gym session or exercise class, slowing down your progress.

Relacore says it can help boost energy levels and keep you feeling on form.

We found some energy boosting ingredients such as ginseng that have been proven to increase energy to some degree. (2)

Improves Mood

When we are trying to lose weight we change our diets to lower fat foods. Whilst this is a great way to lose pounds, there is evidence it can negatively affect our moods. (3)

Furthermore, constantly worrying about what you eat and managing cravings could raise levels of the stress hormone cortisol. (4)

Cortisol has been shown to affect where the body lays down fat reserves, resulting in more abdominal fat. (5)

Relacore says it can reduce stress and therefore block the action of cortisol, freeing up abdominal fat to be burned for energy.

It includes passion flower and magnolia bark extracts for which have anti stress effects upon the body. (6, 7)

Ingredients

Relacore is a formula which includes a mixture of vitamins and minerals along side a proprietary blend of other herbs and extracts.

Here is some more information on the most significant ones:

Thiamine

Thiamine is a B-vitamin that is found in many foods including yeast, cereal grains, beans, nuts, and meat.

It is critical for the growth and development of the body cells.

We did find evidence that deficiencies in thiamine have been shown to have a correlation with weight gain. (8)

Riboflavin

Riboflavin is another B Vitamin commonly found in Milk products and fortified breakfast cereals. It plays a role in helping the body convert food into energy.

There have been studies which suggest a deficiency in Riboflavin can contribute to a depressive mood. (9)

However, deficiency in Riboflavin is extremely rare in the USA.

Pantothenic Acid

Pantothenic acid is also known as vitamin B5. It is found in many foods but in high quantities in beef liver, avocado, sunflower seeds, duck, salmon and eggs.

It is an essential nutrient to the human body – required for the synthesis of the coenzyme ‘coenzyme-A’ or CoA.

CoA is used by the body for many functions but most notably in the oxidation of fatty acids. It produces chemical reactions which creates energy for bodily processes. (10)

Pantothenic acid has also been seen to play an important role in the reduction of cholesterol levels. (11)

Furthermore, there is some evidence from animal trials that pantothenic acid can assist in coping with stress. This is because pantothenic acid has a role in the regulation of adrenal function and the stress hormone cortisol. (12)

Passion Flower

Passion Flower was discovered by Spanish explorers in Peru in 1569. They thought that the beautiful purple and white flowers symbolized Christ’s passion.

Passion flower is commonly found in combination with other herbal products. It has been used all over the world as a treatment for stress and anxiety.

There is evidence that passion flower can promote calmness due to its sedative properties. (13)

Magnolia Bark

Magnolia bark has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine for its relaxing and neuroprotective properties.

It has sedative effects and has been used as treatment for depression and anxiety disorders.

Studies have shown that magnolia bark can reduce cortisol exposure and mitigate stress related health issues. (14)

Asian Ginseng

Ginseng is one of the most popular and well known supplements in the world.It is a short plant which grows very slowly and has unusually fleshy roots.

The Chinese have been drinking ginseng as a tea to promote vitality and energy for around 5000 years.

Studies have shown that ginseng has effective anti-fatigue properties. This may be due to the levels of antioxidants it contains. (15)

Chinese Skullcap Root

Chinese skullcap root comes from the same family as the mint plant.

Skullcap is a thin, tall plant with many stems reaching about four feet high. In the summertime it blooms small blue flowers that look like a cap – which lead to its unusual name.

Over centuries, Chinese skullcap has been used as a nerve tonic to assist in the relief of stress and anxiety.

Studies have shown that the plant contains “anxiolytic” (stress relieving) effects. (16)

Side Effects

Although all the ingredients in Relacore are of natural origin, of course this does not mean there is a zero risk of side effects.

Some of the potential side effects of using Relacore are: flu-like symptoms, headaches, nausea, confusion and dizziness.

Some of the ingredients may interact with sleeping medications and antidepressants.

As with any supplement, if you are taking medication check with your physician regarding any interactions before starting to take Relacore.

Recommended Dosage

The recommended dosage for Relacore is one capsule three times per day with water.

FAQ

How do you take Relacore? One Relacore capsule should be taken three times a day with water.

Who should use Relacore? Relacore is aimed at people who are trying to reduce stress and lose stubborn stomach fat.

How much does Relacore cost? $59.95

Is Relacore safe? Relacore should be safe for healthy individuals if taken according to directions. There is a risk that those ingredients that have a sedative, anti-anxiety effect could negatively interact with some medications. If you are currently taking any medication, especially antidepressants or sleeping pills, consult with your physician.  

Is Relacore legal? Yes, Relacore is legal.

Where to buy Relacore? You can purchase relacore from their official website or from Walmart, Walgreens or on Amazon.

Do they ship Relacore worldwide? No, Relacore is not shipped worldwide.

Does Relacore really work? It is difficult to say if Relacore really works. There is a lack of scientific explanation for many of the ingredients. It is not usually possible to spot reduce body fat in a particular area of the body. Although it does include ingredients that reduce stress, and therefore cortisol, we are not sure that this would be enough to have the effect that it claims upon belly fat.

How long do you have to take Relacore before seeing results? There is a study quoted on the Relacore website which states participants lost an average of 15.6% body fat and 11.5 lbs in 12 weeks. Individual results will always vary.

Summary

Relacore makes very bold claims on their website but lacks substance when it comes to support them.

The website is all about what Relacore can apparently achieve, but not how it will achieve it.

For example, Relacore states that it is only an “add-on” for your current weight loss plan and exercise regime. But then also claims that Relacore can effectively reduce belly fat.

Also, we had to find the ingredient list elsewhere online as they were not displayed on the official website. This is not transparent or particularly encouraging.

That said, it is true that these ingredients do have some clinical support regarding their effectiveness in reducing stress and boosting energy. We had to make these connections ourselves though, as Relacore did not explain the functionality behind the product for us.

Therefore, whilst we have found a scientific connection between cortisol and belly fat, we are not convinced that spot reduction to the amount Relacore claims is possible.

Attention Relacore readers: Click here for our #1 rated fat burner for women

https://bodynutrition.org/relacore/

Leptigen review: The all-natural weight loss supplement

Leptigen is an all natural weight loss supplement that helps people accelerate weight loss.

It’s geared to help people through boosting metabolism and smashing through weight loss plateaus.

The Leptigen formula is based around quality ingredients which have been heavily researched for their weight loss properties.

Attention Leptigen readers: Click here for our #1 rated weight loss supplement

Benefits

Leptigen is made up of four all natural ingredients: green tea extract, chromium, caffeine and a blend of two herbal compounds trademarked as meratrim.

Leptigen is designed to benefit the body in the following ways.

Improves Metabolism

Your metabolism is a gateway to weight loss.

However, one problem surrounding diets is that when you are trying to lose weight your body kicks in a defense mechanism. It’s slows everything down – including your metabolic rate.

You could explain weight loss in a simple equation: less calories in plus a higher metabolism equals reduction in weight.

The theory behind Leptigen is to use ingredients which raise the metabolic rate and cancel out the slow down. This means you will still be using fuel efficiently during weight loss.

Boosting your metabolism also means that, even while at resting, you can burn more calories.

Enhances Fat Loss

Leptigen also promotes fat loss which works hand in hand with your metabolism.

Combine your diet with the fact Leptigen helps you to burn calories more efficiently. This means your body will soon search for energy from other available sources.

The general concept is that your body will start to breakdown and burn the fat which  you have accumulated.

Regulates Blood Sugar Levels

Leptigen also helps to balance out blood sugar levels to improve weight control.

Your blood sugar level is dependant on the amount of glucose consumed from the foods you eat. This then circulates throughout the bloodstream to either be stored for later use or to provide energy to cells within the body.

Keeping your blood sugar levels balanced is important as it will regulate your hormones. This then encourages your body to burn stored fat as well as increase your metabolism – helping you to lose weight.

Also,if your sugars levels are out of balance it often leads to a sudden drop in energy. This results in cravings for high energy food sources, like carbs or sweet treats.  

Steady blood sugar levels will  mean you don’t experience those “spikes” and “crashes”. This will also help you make more healthier food choices and stop the urge for snacks too.

Ingredients

Leptigen consists of four active natural ingredients, of which one is a patented blend of plant extracts. Here’s the information in more detail:

Green Tea Extract

Green tea extract derives from the popular beverage. It’s one of the  healthiest drinks on the planet because of its high antioxidant content.  

Similar to caffeine, green tea has thermogenic properties – enhancing the metabolic rate.

It can even offset the drop in metabolic rate through the prime phase of dieting. Green tea makes sure your body still uses energy efficiently in times of calorie deficit. (1)

Green tea and caffeine have proven to work in synergy with each other which intensifies  the overall fat burning benefits. This combination can streamline the breakdown of fat stores whilst helping to retain muscle. (2)

Green tea is also particularly effective when combined with exercise. Not only can it lift energy levels but it also continues to encourage fat burning long after exercise is over. (3, 4)

Meratrim

Meratrim is a patented blend made from two plant-based compounds: Garcinia mangostana and sphaeranthus indicus flower.

Garcinia mangostana is also known as mangsteen, it’s a fruit originating from asia and used in traditional treatments against stomach pain, diarrhea, ulcers and even dysentery. (5)

Sphaeranthus indicus or otherwise called east indian globe thistle is a plant heavily used in ayurvedic medicine. It’s commonly used as a remedy for a diverse range of conditions: epilepsy, mental illness, jaundice, diabetes and even leprosy. (6)

There is research to suggest the combination of these two plant based compounds instigate weight loss.

Results indicated supplementing meratrim increases a reduction in weight significantly greater when compared to weight loss from diet and exercise alone. (7)

In eight weeks volunteers saw a weight reduction of 5.2kg. Blood sugar levels also improved by 12.2 percent and cholesterol 13.8 percent. (8)

However, this is a standalone study and no long term studies on the effects of meratrim have been undertaken.

Chromium (ChromeMate)

Chromium is a trace mineral, which means we need it but in smaller amounts compared to others like calcium or magnesium. However, it’s involved in a number of bodily functions and processes.

Chromium can enhance the activity of insulin, which plays a big role in controlling blood sugar levels. (9)

A steady level of blood sugar would also suggest a link to reducing appetite and the curb of cravings for starchy and sweet foods. (10)

Chromium can also play a part in the regulating the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats. This is how the body processes foods for fuel, which is also linked to insulin activity. (11)

In fact, chromium could help to reduce body fat and increase lean muscle. However,  other studies suggest different and claim it doesn’t affect weight loss results at all. (12)

Caffeine

Caffeine is a very common ingredient when it comes to weight loss supplements.

Over 73 percent of athletes believe caffeine improves athletic performance and is often known for its “pre-workout” status. (13,14).

In terms of performance, caffeine can improve overall endurance in some cases by just over 12 percent. If you can exercise for longer this will ultimately help you achieve weight loss goals much faster. (15)

Caffeine increases your adrenaline level and can also raise your metabolic rate (16,17).

This can intensify the quantity of energy burned. It also triggers your body to release fat (from fat tissues) to make it accessible for use.

Caffeine can also increase your mental state. It can improve reaction times, alertness, focus and motivation. (18)

Side Effects

When it comes to Leptigen side effects, there have been no clinical studies testing the Leptigen formula as a whole.  

However, when investigating the all natural supplement by individual ingredients we found the following information:

Caffeine

The common side effects of excessive caffeine consumption are well documented.

You could experience: dehydration, frequent urination, headaches, digestive issues, increased heart rate, lightheadedness, sleep problems, anxiety and jitteriness. (19)

Green Tea

Green tea is considered safe when consumed in moderate amounts, however it does naturally contain caffeine. This means you could experience similar side effects as stated above with excess intake.  

Green tea could also interact with certain medications relating to high blood pressure or other heart related conditions. (20)

Chromium

Few adverse reactions have been reported with chromium. However it can interact with various medications which may interfere with chromium absorption or the medication itself. (21)

Meratrim

Studies have shown the herbal blend is a well tolerated combination.This means there are no known side effects associated with supplementing meratrim. (22)

Recommended Dosage

Leptigen recommend taking just two capsules per day, 30 minutes before meals.

As long as you do not exceed the two capsules, you have option to take both before breakfast or lunch (due to the caffeine content it’s not advisable to take in the evening).

The other alternative is to split the dosage and take one capsule before breakfast and another before lunch.

Leptigen also recommends combining this supplement alongside a daily routine of physical activity.

FAQ

What is Leptigen? Leptigen is a dietary supplement aimed at burning body fat to help you achieve weight loss goals.

Where can I buy Leptigen? Leptigen is listed for purchase through Amazon. Unfortunately their official website is no longer active due to the discontinuation of the dietary supplement. Leptigen GNC and Leptigen Walmart are also not available.

Does Leptigen work for weight loss? With the Leptigen ingredients and clinical studies behind them, Leptigen can work for weight loss if used correctly. However, you should always keep in mind that every body reacts differently to products.

How much does Leptigen cost? Depends. The packages can range from $90 for a 90 day supply to $110 for a Lipozene Starter Weight Loss Kit.

How long does Leptigen take to work? From the outset you should be able to feel the increased energy however each body differs. You should complete the course and can expect to see visible results by the time you finish.

How to take Leptigen Leptigen advise to take 2 capsules per day, 30 minutes before meals. Also perform daily exercise.

Who should use Leptigen? Both Men and women can use Leptigen however with all supplements we advise to seek medical advice before taking anything new. Furthermore, seek advise if you are pregnant or breastfeeding – due to caffeine content.

Is Leptigen safe? With the Leptigen ingredients being all natural, Leptigen is a safe product to use subject to you following the recommended dosage.

Is Leptigen legal? Yes, Leptigen is legal.

Are there any Leptigen alternatives? The alternative to Leptigen is now called Burn HD.

Summary

It’s clear this supplement has the basis of quality ingredients which also come with decent scientific research to back up the claims of weight loss.

However, there will be some cause for concern for those surrounding the side effects of caffeine.

Reactions like sleep problems, headaches and increased heart rate could mean the supplement has more cons than pros – especially if you are sensitive to those kind of  effects.

It’s also might not suitable for people with certain pre-existing heart related conditions due to the interactions with medications green tea has.

Any supplement is not a miracle cure for weight loss. Leptigen may help you speed up results but you will still have to follow a well balanced low calorie diet and exercise regime to lose that weight.

Attention Leptigen readers: Click here for our #1 rated weight loss supplement

https://bodynutrition.org/leptigen/

Belviq review: The FDA-approved weight loss medicine

Belviq is an FDA approved prescription weight loss pill created by San Diego based pharmaceutical company Arena.

There are two strengths available: Belviq and Belviq XR (extended release).

It is targeted towards overweight and obese individuals, claiming to help them lose weight and keep it off.

Belviq is said to assist in weight loss by reducing the appetite of users, therefore limiting the amount of calories they consume.

Attention Belviq readers: Click here for our #1 rated weight loss supplement

Benefits

One in three Americans are now considered overweight or obese (1).

In the vast majority of cases, overeating and lack of exercise is the cause of weight problems.

A healthy, calorie controlled diet combined with an exercise regime is the best way to lose extra pounds.

Belviq is a prescription only based weight loss pill which is designed for people who have a BMI higher than 27.

It contains a main active chemical compound called lorcaserin hydrochloride.

Belviq claims to have the following benefits for those looking for help losing weight.

Appetite Control

It is no surprise that if we eat too much and do not move enough, we put on weight. This is due to those unused calories being stored as fuel for later.

These excess calories are stored as fat, usually on the stomach, hips and thighs.

Excess fat is a leading cause of many long term health problems, such as diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure.

Losing weight by cutting down the amount that you eat can be very difficult. It feels like there is temptation everywhere, and then you get that dreaded hunger.

As sections of the stomach and intestine become empty, signals are sent to the brain which cause the stomach lining to contract. (2)

These contractions are what cause the sensation of hunger, and make you want to give up and eat that doughnut.

Belviq claims to be able to defend users from the hunger that threatens their dieting willpower.

It says it does this by providing a feeling of fullness with its appetite suppressant properties.

As the users appetite becomes reduced, the amount of calories consumed should also fall. This should result in a calorie deficit and therefore, weight loss.

Ingredients

Belviq contains a solitary active compound, here’s the background behind it:

Lorcaserin Hydrochloride (HCI)

The Belviq website states the precise mechanism of how lorcaserin HCI works is not fully understood.

It claims that Lorcaserin HCI works by interacting with the brain receptors for serotonin.

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter which is known to create a feeling of satisfaction and satiety. (3)

Lorcaserin HCI has been shown to activate what is known as 5-HT 2C serotonin receptors within the brain's hypothalamus.

The hypothalamus is the part of the brain which controls many important body functions.

It is located towards the base of the brain and is responsible for the regulation of the sleep cycle, body temperature, and the appetite. (4, 5)

The 5-HT 2C receptors are binding sites for serotonin. When they are activated, they create a sensation of satisfaction like you feel when eating fast food. (6)

Lorcaserin HCI interacts with these receptors and fools the body into a state of satiety and suppresses the appetite. (7)

As well as appetite suppression, Lorcaserin has also been seen to help with weight loss. (8)

Side Effects

As with any medication, it is extremely important to be aware of potential side effects before use.

Unfortunately, Belviq has a very long list of side effects and risks, the likes of which can be quite disturbing.

The most common side effects of Belviq are headache, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, dry mouth and constipation.

For users who have diabetes, they can also experience low blood sugar, back pain and coughing.

Aside from the above, there are warning on Belviqs’ website regarding more serious  risks of: suicidal thinking, painful erections, changes to heart rate, decreases in blood cell count, hallucinations and mania, changes to attention/memory, and valvular heart disease.

The FDA did not approve Arena’s first request in 2010 for approval of Belviq due to concerns regarding potential damage to the heart valves.

Approval was finally granted in 2012 on the basis of potential weight loss benefits outweighing the potential risks. (9)

Belviqs’ official website states it is not known whether Belviq can increase the risk of heart attacks or strokes in users. (10)

If you are considering asking your doctor for Belviq, ask about these potential risks before making a decision.

Recommended Dosage

The recommended dosage depends upon the strength of the formulation you are taking.

There are two available strengths: Belviq and Belviq XR.

Belviq pills are blue in colour and are a 10mg strength. If you are taking these you should take one pill twice a day.

Belviq XR pills are orange in colour and are a 20mg strength. If you are using these you should take one pill per day.

Both Belviq and Belviq XR perform exactly the same function over the course of the day.

Belviq XR 20 mg does not increase the rate of weight loss, it is simply a slower release of a higher dose. The effect is the same whether you take 10 or 20 mg Belviq.

It is recommended that you try to keep Belviq dosage times the same time every day. You do not need to take Belviq 10 mg or Belviq 20 mg with a meal.

If you miss a dose, never ‘double dose’ to catch up. This can be very dangerous.

FAQ

What is Belviq? Belviq is an prescription only weight loss medicine that suppresses the appetite by interacting with serotonin receptors in the brain.

How do you take Belviq? Belviq should be taken according to the directions, depending upon the strength you have been prescribed. Belviq 10 mg (blue pill) should be taken twice a day. Belviq XR (orange pill) should be taken once a day. It is not necessary to be taken with food.

Who Should Use Belviq? Belviq is a prescription only medicine. It can only be recommended to you by your physician. Belviq is for use by overweight or obese individuals who require help controlling their appetite to lose weight.

Is Belviq safe? Although Belviq has been FDA approved, there is no guarantee that it will not cause potentially serious health issues. Belviqs’ own official website states that it is not known whether the medicine can cause increased risk of strokes or heart problems. There is a very long list of potential risks and side effects associated with Belviq. We recommend you consider these at length before deciding whether to use this medicine.

Where to buy Belviq? Belviq can only be purchased with a prescription from your physician. It can be purchased from pharmacies and pharmacy counters in most superstores.

Does Belviq really work? The active ingredients in Belviq have been clinically proven to help with weight loss. (11) It’s active ingredient suppresses the appetite and therefore reduces the amount of calories you consume. A reduction in calorie intake vs calorie expenditure will result in weight loss.  

Does Belviq work immediately? Because Belviq works by way of appetite reduction, it will not make you lose weight immediately. Weight loss will come over the weeks and months that you are restricting your calorie intake due to lower levels of hunger. Belviq itself does not make you lose weight, a calorie deficit does.

Does Belviq give you energy? Belviq does not contain any stimulants like other weight loss pills on the market. So there is no reason why it should have an energising effect. You may experience a dip in energy due to reduction in food intake. As always it is best to eat a balanced, healthy diet to ensure you are getting the nutrition your body needs.

Is Belviq approved by the FDA? Yes, Belviq is approved by the FDA.

Why Is Belviq a controlled substance? Yes, Belviq is a federally controlled substance because it can lead to dependence or abuse. It is only available by prescription from your doctor. Always take according to directions and do not share this medication with any other person.

How much does Belviq cost per month? The cost of Belviq will depend upon your insurance plan and location. Most people will require 60 tablets per month.The average cost for this without insurance is $226 per month.

What class of drug is Belviq? Belviq is classified as a schedule 4 drug under the Controlled Substances Act by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). It was classified as such in 2013.

Is Belviq addictive? Yes, Belviq has the potential to result in dependency, hence why the drug is a controlled substance. You must only use Belviq under the supervision of your physician and must never share this drug with anyone else.

Summary

Belviq is a potentially useful drug for those who have a high BMI and need help controlling their appetite.

It is important to recognise that Belviq does not stimulate weight loss, it simply prevents you from eating too much.

The extensive list of risks, side effects and warnings associated with Belviq are a serious cause for concern. This calls into question whether a lack of dieting willpower is worth the risk.

If you are someone who really struggles with hunger willpower, then providing you are fully aware of the risks involved Belviq might be a solution.

Attention Belviq readers: Click here for our #1 rated weight loss supplement

https://bodynutrition.org/belviq/