Imagine a weight loss supplement that can instantly melt away fat, shed pounds, and give you the skinny body you’ve always wanted. We all want to have a slim waist, firm abs, and no cellulite. In concept, all supplements that make huge promises are like a dream come true.

The truth is not all magic pills advertised by celebrities and famous doctors work. Let’s have a closer look at some of the best and worst weight loss supplements currently available in the marketplace.

HCA (Hydroxycitric Acid) – GOOD

Hydroxycitric Acid is a salt derivative from Garcinia cambodia and brindal berry, two plants found in Southeast Asia. HCA was traditionally used for stomach and joint problems. Studies have proven that it reduces fat absorption, inhibits the appetite, boost fat metabolism and lipid oxidation, and lowers bad cholesterol. Some well-known weight loss supplements that contain HCA: Bio-Max 3000, Citrilite, and Citrin.

Beta Glucan – GOOD

Beta glucan is a soluble fiber derivative from algae, yeasts, fungi, bacteria and mushrooms. It comes in various forms and several studies have proven that it lowers LDL cholesterol and helps the body burn fat faster by forcing the live to use the cholesterol found in the blood for the synthesis of bile acids.

CLA (Conjugated Linoleic Acid) – GOOD

Omega-3 fatty acids (or CLA – Conjugated Linoleic Acids) are extremely beneficial for the general health of the body. Apart from heart and health brain, CLA seems to be an excellent weight loss supplement too. It can be found in healthy food sources such as dairy and beef, but if you’re vegan or lactose intolerant, you can turn to supplementation. CLA is extremely popular because it is considered an all-natural health supplement. It reduces body fat and it is a perfect for people adhering to a high-protein diet in order to lose weight.

Glucomannan – GOOD

Glucomannan comes from a plant known as konjac, originally from Asia. It is a fiber thought to have positive effects for blood sugar control and diabetes. Apparently, specialists have also managed to prove it is excellent for weight loss. Glucomannan can be consumed as candy or you can bake and fry it. It looks like under the form of a supplements, Glucomannan can put an end to hunger pangs.

Guarana – BAD

If you’re into all-natural weight loss supplements, trying out guarana will seem like a healthy way to lose weight. This Amazonian plant claims to energize your body, and apparently it promotes fat loss by boosting the metabolism. Guarana contains increased amounts of caffeine, and while it could be an excellent supplement to boost energy, it doesn’t help you lose weight.

Forskolin – BAD

Forskolin is derived from the plant with the same name, and some specialists have mentioned it has fat burning potential. Some have claimed that Forskolin hastens fat loss and increases lean muscle tissue.  There was a study performed on the matter, but it looks like it contained flaws; experts labeled the study as unreliable and they ruled out the possibility that Forskolin has fat burning effects.

Hoodia Gordonii – BAD

Hoodia Gordonii is a rather new product that promises to help people lose weight faster. The plant originated from Namibia and apparently it has other medicinal properties. Rumor has it that natives have been using it for centuries to stay slim.

Although it’s a big diet craze, diet supplements based on Hoodia don’t seem to work. In spite of many studies performed, experts haven’t managed to prove that the plant is an efficient lose weight supplement. Most findings have proven inconclusive, so it’s best that you stay far away from such products that haven’t managed to demonstrate their positive effects on weight loss.

There are hundreds of weight loss supplements currently on the market that promise fast results without any side effects. It’s best that you stay away from such products, especially since they haven’t been tested. Prior to starting to take weight loss supplements, ask for advice from a dietician/nutritionist, or get properly informed from the web.

Check reviews, see what worked and what didn’t for other people, read the ingredient list, and don’t forget to have a closer look at the side effects.