As the best natural supplement for weight loss , fat burners can help you burn calories more effectively by speeding up your metabolism and encouraging your body to use stored fat for energy. However, they should be used only as part of a comprehensive weight-loss plan under the supervision of an accredited health care practitioner.

Garcinia cambogia (also known as gamboge, brindleberry, and malabar tamarind) is a pumpkin-sized fruit native to Indonesia. The extract from its rind contains hydroxycitric acid, which is said to promote weight loss by suppressing appetite and increasing the number of calories burned. The FDA has found little evidence that it works, except for short-term weight loss, and says the risks outweigh the benefits. It was also linked to a variety of serious side effects, including liver failure and death. A combination of garcinia and ephedrine, called Hydroxycut, was banned by the FDA in 2009.

Natural Supplements for Effective Weight Loss: A Comprehensive Guide

Chitosan is made from the shells of crustaceans like shrimp, crabs, and lobster. It’s claimed to bind fat in the gut and reduce absorption, but a review of studies found only a small amount of initial weight loss. The reviewers also noted that the quality of the studies was poor.

Glucomannan, which is made from the konjac plant, is said to keep you feeling full and slow down the digestion of other foods. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine says there’s insufficient evidence that it helps with weight loss. It may also interfere with medications, including blood pressure drugs and antacids. Bitter orange (Piper membranaceus) is a tropical fruit with a tangy taste that’s used in many diet supplements. The rind contains synephrine, which is similar to the stimulant ephedrine and is supposed to boost energy and burn calories. It’s also been linked to severe side effects, including high blood pressure, muscle aches, chest pain, anxiety, and heart rhythm problems.