The five supplements that will be discussed include garcinia cambogia, l-carnitine, coenzyme q10, Slimquick, and Hydroxycut. Study results on each supplement will be briefly examined. In addition, an analysis of why consumers are using each supplement will be detailed.
Garcinia Cambogia: This supplement is marketed towards individuals interested in weight loss. Studies claim that its main ingredient, hydoxycitric acid, works by increasing a person’s metabolic rate and reducing a person’s appetite (WebMD). The results of scientific experiments are mixed. Weight loss with the supplement versus weight loss without it was not significant. However, the supplement did lower insulin levels in mice (WebMD). Consumers are likely to try the supplement if they are interested in weight loss or in maintaining a healthy weight. Even a moderate increase in the amount of weight loss can be a significant driver for some.
L-Carnitine: L-carnitine is produced by the human body, but as a supplement is thought to help support the body’s process of converting fat into energy (University of Maryland Medical Center). Scientific evidence shows the supplement is beneficial for those whose ability to produce l-carnitine naturally is compromised. Affected individuals include those with angina or who do not consume a lot of animal products (University of Maryland Medical Center). Consumers often choose to take the supplement as a means of supporting weight loss efforts and improving physical endurance. At this time there is not enough scientific evidence to back up those claims (University of Maryland Medical Center).
Coenzyme Q10: This supplement has been used in studies on heart disease, aging, diabetes and cancer. Coenzyme q10 is often recommended as an anti-inflammatory and as a natural additive that will slow disease progression (Oregon State University). Clinical studies have revealed the supplement does have some positive benefit against diabetes and heart disease (Oregon State University). Consumers who suffer from the early-onset stages of these diseases may be drawn to coenzyme q10 as a less invasive means of treatment.
Slimquick: Slimquick is a weight loss supplement that is targeted towards females. Advertisements claim it helps control appetite, speed up an individual’s metabolic rate, reduce sluggishness, balance female hormones and mitigate bloating (MD-Health.com). The claims are not backed up by scientific research and the manufacturers also recommend using the product in conjunction with diet and exercise (MD-Health.com). Consumers are likely to turn to the product if they feel their diet and exercise efforts are not producing the results they want to see.
Hydroxycut: Hydroxycut is a weight loss supplement that is advertised as a fat burner. The product claims to be able to reduce weight quicker than diet and exercise alone, while also boosting energy levels. The claims are not backed up by scientific research and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) actually published a warning on the product, stating it has been shown to cause liver failure in some individuals (U.S. Food and Drug Administration). Individuals are likely drawn to this supplement in an effort to speed up their weight loss efforts.
Works Cited
“Carnitine (L-carnitine).” University of Maryland Medical Center. University of Maryland
Medical Center, 2016. Web. 9 June 2016. <http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/supplement/carnitine-lcarnitine>
“Coenzyme Q10.” OSU. Oregon State University, 2016. Web. 9 June 2016.
<http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/dietary-factors/coenzyme-Q10>
“Garcinia Cambogia: Safe for Weight Loss?” WebMD. WebMD, 2015-2016. Web. 9 June 2016.
<http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-and-supplements/garcinia-cambogia-weight-loss>
“Slimquick.” MD-Health.com. MD-Health.com, 09, June 2016. Web. 9 June 2016.
<http://www.md-health.com/Slimquick.html>.
“Warning on Hydroxycut Products.” FDA. U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 24, August
2015. Web. 9 June 2016. <http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm152152.htm>
