Weight loss supplements often get a bad rap from individuals who believe that supplements are merely a synthetic blend of chemicals, harmful to the body. In reality; however, weight loss supplements comprise a wide array of compounds including vitamins, nutrient concentrations, and minerals that actually benefit our health and accelerate weight loss when combined with a healthy diet and weight management program. While supplements are necessary for professional athletes and sportspersons, they also prove beneficial to individuals who are merely looking to lose excess body fat. To alleviate any misconceptions regarding the benefits of weight loss supplements, here are seven natural supplements that actually work.

1. Whey Protein

Its no secret that whey protein is one of the most underrated protein supplements. Many believe that its only gym buffs and professional bodybuilders really need it. However, whey protein isnt something unnatural; rather, its a milk derivative that is easily digested and provides satiation while helping you build muscles. You must consider that muscle has a higher metabolic rate than fat. Therefore, replacing body fat with muscle through exercising and consuming protein supplementation improves your metabolism and fat-burning abilities.

2. Caffeine

Caffeine is a commonly consumed psychoactive substance, through beverages and chocolates. The compound is found naturally in the cocoa beans and is added in coffee, dark chocolates among other food items. Studies have shown that caffeine is an excellent metabolism booster, which can increase fat-burning capacity by up to 29 percent and metabolism by up to 11 percent. Caffeine works by stimulating the central nervous system and accelerating fat oxidation in our body, which results in breaking down of larger fat molecules to be used as energy.

3. Green Tea Extract

Green tea extract contains epigallocatechin gallate or EGCG, which is a type of catechin that aids fat burning. The extract increases the concentration of norepinephrine, a hormone that is associated with fat loss and stimulates brown adipose tissue thermogenesis to increase fat oxidation by 33 percent (according to a study conducted by the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition). Studies have also shown that consuming green tea extract externally that has 90 percent polyphenols and 50 percent EGCG provides the best fat loss reduction.

4. Cayenne pepper

Consuming cayenne pepper literally burns down body fat! The main ingredient in cayenne pepper, capsaicin improves metabolism by up to 20 percent and helps you consume fewer calories in a day, by activating the sympathetic nervous system, and the brown and white fat cells. Cayenne pepper works by binding the neuroreceptors with capsinoids to induce calcium influx. This, in turn, triggers multiple cellular responses such as decreasing proinflammatory protein expression and increasing antioxidant enzyme levels. Subsequently, the body is better equipped to flush out toxins, increase diet-induced lipid oxidation and thermogenesis to suppress appetite.

5. Vitamin D

Deficiency of vitamin D increases the risk of obesity in individuals, especially with a sedentary lifestyle. According to a study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 40 percent of adults in America have a deficiency of vitamin D. Therefore, you must ensure proper supplementation of the vitamin particularly during winters when sunlight isnt much available. Vitamin D is essential for the body receptors to function properly, including the ones responsible for managing hunger and body fat.

6. Chitosan

Chitosan, commonly known as the  shark cartilage, is a fiber supplement that comes from the exoskeletons of crustaceans and insects. According to studies, incorporating chitosan in a high-protein, low-carb diet significantly lowers the body fat while reducing bloating and flatulence. This dietary fiber supplement helps keeps you satiated for longer time periods and reduces frequent hunger pangs.

Wrapping Up

Contrary to common misconception, weight loss supplements have the ability to improve metabolism and help the body absorb macronutrients efficiently. Most weight management programs and exercise regimen focus on consumption of fewer calories and replacing complex nutrients such as carbs and fat by protein. Be it professional bodybuilders, sports personnel, or common individuals, supplementation is for everyone. Therefore, if you want to get rid of excess body fat you need to incorporate a rigorous exercise regimen and weight loss supplements into your lifestyle.