CritiCALorie » conjugated linoleic acid http://www.criticalorie.com a rogue diet pill critic speaks out Thu, 22 Oct 2009 16:08:13 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.8 en hourly 1 Boda Extract No. 3 Review http://www.criticalorie.com/2009/boda-extract-no-3-review/ http://www.criticalorie.com/2009/boda-extract-no-3-review/#comments Thu, 11 Jun 2009 17:16:43 +0000 Cal http://www.criticalorie.com/?p=1145 boda1Today I’ll be looking at a brand new diet pill to hit the market called Boda Extract No. 3.

At first glance it actually looks quite promising. According to their website, Boda “will help you burn fat and increase lean muscle mass guaranteed!” They also claim that you can “lose 20% body in 12 weeks.” So how does Boda Extract No. 3 live up to these claims? Read on to find out.

Boda Extract No. 3 Ingredients

The only ingredient that Boda lists on the website is Conjugated Linoleic Acid, also known as CLA. You can see my full review of CLA if you’d like, but here it is in a nutshell: CLA has been the subject of many clinical studies and the results are quite promising. It has been shown to reduce body fat and preserve lean muscle.

Research

One study used .6 grams of CLA, taken three times daily (1.8 g per day). It concluded that,

“Body fat, measured using near infrared light, was significantly reduced in the CLA group during the study, but not in the placebo group.” ((J Int Med Res 2002 Mar-Apr;30(2):210.))

Another study used a placebo and varying amounts (1.7, 3.4, 5.1 or 6.8 g per day) of CLA. It concluded that,

“Repeated-measures analysis showed that a significantly higher reduction in BFM was found in the conjugated linoleic acid groups compared with the placebo group (P = 0.03). The reduction of body fat within the groups was significant for the 3.4 and 6.8 g CLA groups (P = 0.05 and P = 0.02, respectively). No significant differences among the groups were observed in lean body mass, body mass index, blood safety variables or blood lipids. The data suggest that conjugated linoleic acid may reduce BFM in humans and that no additional effect on BFM is achieved with doses > 3.4 g CLA/d.” ((http://jn.nutrition.org/cgi/content/abstract/130/12/2943))

The Boda website directs you to take one 1000 mg capsule three times daily. So you’re getting 3 grams a day. If I were to assume that the full 1000 mg was all or even mostly CLA, that’s much more than you’ll get in any other diet pill and, according to the research I found, a very effective dosage of CLA.

CLA is a good diet pill ingredient and I like that Boda Extract No. 3 includes it. I like even more that they use clinically proven amounts. Would Boda benefit from having a few other ingredients in the mix? Maybe. But CLA is an effective weight loss ingredient.

The Boda Website

The Boda website is very clean, professional, and well done. It’s definitely a bit of a breath of fresh air when compared to so many other diet pills’ sites that feel like a constant high-pressure sales pitch.

They provide a pretty good amount of information. I especially like that have a page dedicated to the research that supports CLA as a viable diet pill ingredient. I really like that they cite the institutions who performed the studies so that anyone who wishes to verify the information can do so easily. This is something that’s simply not seen in this industry very often.

The Boda Autoship

I’m usually one to harp on companies that use autoship programs to sell their product. This isn’t case, however, with Boda. Most companies hide the autoship in their fine print, taking the consumer by surprise. Boda, on the other hand is very clear and forthcoming about the autoship options. What’s more, they give you the option of buying with the autoship (for a small discount) or buying the product outright. I like this.

Boda makes it very obvious what your options are when purchasing it. For that reason, I see no red flags with their autoship as the consumer should be well aware of what they are getting into if they choose to go the autoship route.

Boda’s Free Trial Website

Boda is also apparently using a website that offers a free trial of the product. I must admit, at first I was ready to pounce on this usually scam-like sales tactic. But again, I was pleased to find that they disclose very well and clearly the fact that you are enrolling in an autoship if you choose to get the free trial. They even go as far as to tell you the date (in bold) that you will be charged for the supply if you don’t call and cancel. This kind of clarity and honesty is rarely seen on similar sites. If you’d like their free trial, visit the Boda free trial page.

Boda’s BBB Rating

Since the Boda Extract No. 3 website mentioned that they were accredited by the Better Business Bureau, I decided to check it out. Sure enough, Boda Botanicals Inc. is a BBB accredited business. The BBB gives explanation of a BBB accreditation:

If a business has been accredited by BBB, it means BBB has determined that the business meets BBB accreditation standards, which include a commitment to make a good faith effort to resolve any consumer complaints. BBB Accredited Businesses pay a fee for accreditation review/monitoring and for support of BBB services to the public.

In addition, the BBB gave them an A- rating. This is a very favorable rating, given the industry.

Boda’s Price

A one month supply of Boda Extract No. 3 is $49 (or $39 if you choose to use the autoship option). A 3 month supply is $132 ($102 w/ autoship) and a 6 month supply is $234 ($174 w/ autoship). This is a very reasonable price for diet pill.

Conclusion

All things considered I’m quite impressed with Boda Extract No. 3. Their marketing isn’t deceitful, and the company appears to be an upstanding company. The price is also quite reasonable. The active ingredient in Boda is CLA, which has been shown to be effective at lowering body fat and increasing lean muscle mass. Boda Extract No. 3 gets a thumbs up!

]]> boda1Today I’ll be looking at a brand new diet pill to hit the market called Boda Extract No. 3.

At first glance it actually looks quite promising. According to their website, Boda “will help you burn fat and increase lean muscle mass guaranteed!” They also claim that you can “lose 20% body in 12 weeks.” So how does Boda Extract No. 3 live up to these claims? Read on to find out.

Boda Extract No. 3 Ingredients

The only ingredient that Boda lists on the website is Conjugated Linoleic Acid, also known as CLA. You can see my full review of CLA if you’d like, but here it is in a nutshell: CLA has been the subject of many clinical studies and the results are quite promising. It has been shown to reduce body fat and preserve lean muscle.

Research

One study used .6 grams of CLA, taken three times daily (1.8 g per day). It concluded that,

“Body fat, measured using near infrared light, was significantly reduced in the CLA group during the study, but not in the placebo group.” ((J Int Med Res 2002 Mar-Apr;30(2):210.))

Another study used a placebo and varying amounts (1.7, 3.4, 5.1 or 6.8 g per day) of CLA. It concluded that,

“Repeated-measures analysis showed that a significantly higher reduction in BFM was found in the conjugated linoleic acid groups compared with the placebo group (P = 0.03). The reduction of body fat within the groups was significant for the 3.4 and 6.8 g CLA groups (P = 0.05 and P = 0.02, respectively). No significant differences among the groups were observed in lean body mass, body mass index, blood safety variables or blood lipids. The data suggest that conjugated linoleic acid may reduce BFM in humans and that no additional effect on BFM is achieved with doses > 3.4 g CLA/d.” ((http://jn.nutrition.org/cgi/content/abstract/130/12/2943))

The Boda website directs you to take one 1000 mg capsule three times daily. So you’re getting 3 grams a day. If I were to assume that the full 1000 mg was all or even mostly CLA, that’s much more than you’ll get in any other diet pill and, according to the research I found, a very effective dosage of CLA.

CLA is a good diet pill ingredient and I like that Boda Extract No. 3 includes it. I like even more that they use clinically proven amounts. Would Boda benefit from having a few other ingredients in the mix? Maybe. But CLA is an effective weight loss ingredient.

The Boda Website

The Boda website is very clean, professional, and well done. It’s definitely a bit of a breath of fresh air when compared to so many other diet pills’ sites that feel like a constant high-pressure sales pitch.

They provide a pretty good amount of information. I especially like that have a page dedicated to the research that supports CLA as a viable diet pill ingredient. I really like that they cite the institutions who performed the studies so that anyone who wishes to verify the information can do so easily. This is something that’s simply not seen in this industry very often.

The Boda Autoship

I’m usually one to harp on companies that use autoship programs to sell their product. This isn’t case, however, with Boda. Most companies hide the autoship in their fine print, taking the consumer by surprise. Boda, on the other hand is very clear and forthcoming about the autoship options. What’s more, they give you the option of buying with the autoship (for a small discount) or buying the product outright. I like this.

Boda makes it very obvious what your options are when purchasing it. For that reason, I see no red flags with their autoship as the consumer should be well aware of what they are getting into if they choose to go the autoship route.

Boda’s Free Trial Website

Boda is also apparently using a website that offers a free trial of the product. I must admit, at first I was ready to pounce on this usually scam-like sales tactic. But again, I was pleased to find that they disclose very well and clearly the fact that you are enrolling in an autoship if you choose to get the free trial. They even go as far as to tell you the date (in bold) that you will be charged for the supply if you don’t call and cancel. This kind of clarity and honesty is rarely seen on similar sites. If you’d like their free trial, visit the Boda free trial page.

Boda’s BBB Rating

Since the Boda Extract No. 3 website mentioned that they were accredited by the Better Business Bureau, I decided to check it out. Sure enough, Boda Botanicals Inc. is a BBB accredited business. The BBB gives explanation of a BBB accreditation:

If a business has been accredited by BBB, it means BBB has determined that the business meets BBB accreditation standards, which include a commitment to make a good faith effort to resolve any consumer complaints. BBB Accredited Businesses pay a fee for accreditation review/monitoring and for support of BBB services to the public.

In addition, the BBB gave them an A- rating. This is a very favorable rating, given the industry.

Boda’s Price

A one month supply of Boda Extract No. 3 is $49 (or $39 if you choose to use the autoship option). A 3 month supply is $132 ($102 w/ autoship) and a 6 month supply is $234 ($174 w/ autoship). This is a very reasonable price for diet pill.

Conclusion

All things considered I’m quite impressed with Boda Extract No. 3. Their marketing isn’t deceitful, and the company appears to be an upstanding company. The price is also quite reasonable. The active ingredient in Boda is CLA, which has been shown to be effective at lowering body fat and increasing lean muscle mass. Boda Extract No. 3 gets a thumbs up!

]]> http://www.criticalorie.com/2009/boda-extract-no-3-review/feed/ 23 LipoFlush Review http://www.criticalorie.com/2009/lipoflush-review/ http://www.criticalorie.com/2009/lipoflush-review/#comments Mon, 06 Apr 2009 16:47:07 +0000 Susan http://www.criticalorie.com/?p=858 lipoflush

LipoFlush diet pills supposedly “dramatically decrease body fat, increase energy levels, preserve skeletal muscle, and provide major health benefits” (website). This LipoFlush review will dissect the exhausting ingredient list and reveal the truth about the research done on LipoFlush to show you that LipoFlush is not the product you are looking for.

Hydroxycitric Acid Update

On May 1, 2009 the FDA issued a warning to consumers to stop taking Hydroxycut-branded products. Over more than 7 years they have received 23 reports of health related issues with those taking Hydroxycut-branded products. The main health concern appears to be serious liver-related problems. Iovate Health Sciences Inc., the makers of Hydroxcut, have voluntarily recalled all of the products under question in the FDA’s report

Common symptoms of liver complications include:

  • jaundice (yellowing of the skin)
  • brown urine
  • light colored stools
  • unusual tiredness
  • stomach pain
  • itching
  • loss of appetite
  • weakness
  • vomiting

In light of the recent FDA warning concerning the possible dangers of Hydroxycut-branded diet pills, many believe that the associated health risks are likely due to the inclusion of the commonly used ingredient Hydroxycitric Acid, or HCA. And while according to the FDA, “The agency has not yet determined which ingredients, dosages, or other health-related factors may be associated with risks related to these Hydroxycut products. The products contain a variety of ingredients and herbal extracts.” you can never be too cautious.

So, while further study and research is needed to confirm the link between HCA and the liver problems, until proven otherwise any products that contain HCA are no longer recommended on this website.

LipoFlush Ingredients

Vitamin D3 (100 IU) does nothing for weight loss.

Vitamin B5 (10 mg) does nothing for weight loss.

Vitamin B6 (25 mg) does nothing for weight loss.

Vitamin B12 (1000 mcg) does nothing for weight loss.

Folic Acid (1000 mcg) does nothing for weight loss.

Biotin (100 mcg) does nothing for weight loss.

Potassium (99 mg) does nothing for weight loss.

Calcium (415 mg) does nothing for weight loss.

Magnesium (200 mg) does nothing for weight loss.

Zinc (10 mg) does nothing for weight loss.

Chromium (50 mcg) has shown varying results in clinical studies.

Choline (650 mg) supposedly reduces body fat, but studies do not back up this claim.

L-Carnitine (450 mg) has not been proven to contribute to weight loss.

Bioperine (4 mg) increases the body’s ability to absorb nutrients. It does not directly contribute to weight loss.

Citrus Aurantium (300 mg) contains Synephrine, which is a great, proven diet pill ingredient. The important aspect with Synephrine is the concentration–the higher the better. LipoFlush does not disclose the concentration of Synephrine it contains. Therefore, it is impossible for this LipoFlush review to determine if the Synephrine in LipoFlush diet pills is enough to contribute to weight loss.

Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) (100 mg) does contribute to weight loss, but 100 mg isn’t going to do much.

Cordyceps Sinesis (100 mg)

Garcinia Cambogia (400 mg) does contribute to weight loss.

Hawthorne Berry (100 mg) does nothing for weight loss.

Caffeine (99 mg) is a good weight loss ingredient, but there is not enough caffeine in LipoFlush diet pills to be effective.

LipoFlush Proprietary Complex 4000 mg

Acanthopanax Senticosus

Alpha Lipoic Acid(ALA)  helps produce energy. However, the human body makes plenty of ALA, so there is no need to supplement.

Banaba Leaf

Beta Sitosterol

Betaine

Capsicum

Cellulose

Cinnamon

Damiana has been shown to contribute to weight loss when combined with yerba mate and guarana. LipoFlush does contain yerba mate and guarana, but it does not list how much of each is included.

Genistein

Ginger

Grape Seed

Guarana has been shown to contribute to weight loss when combined with yerba mate and damiana. LipoFlush does contain yerba mate and damiana, but it does not list how much of each is included.

Guggul extract is supposed to increase thyroid function, leading to weight loss. However, research does not support these claims.

Glycine

Hoodia does absolutely nothing for weight loss.

Inositol transports fat from the liver. Again, LipoFlush hides how much Inositol it contains.

Kelp

Kola Nut

Lecithin

L-Histidine

L-Tyrosine is effective when included in doses of 500 to 1500 mg per day. It is unlikely that LipoFlush contains enough L-Tyrosine to be effective.

Green Tea is a very effective ingredient, but LipoFlush does not list how much green tea it contains.

Magnesium

Mucuna Puriens

Panax Ginseng

Phosphatidylserine

Quercetine dihydrate

Siler extract

Theobroma Cocoa Complex

White Willow Bark is an anti-inflammatory. It does not cause weight loss.

Yerba Mate has been shown to contribute to weight loss when combined with guarana and damiana. LipoFlush does contain guarana and damiana, but it does not list how much of each is included.

LipoFlush Cost

LipoFlush costs $69.95 for 120 capsules. If you take the recommended 8 capsules per day, one bottle will last 15 days. This is an outrageous price for a diet pill! You can find a more effective diet pill at much less cost. Check out our recommended products.

LipoFlush Research

The LipoFlush website claims there has been research done specifically on LipoFlush. The supposed research was done in-house (which usually means they have altered the results to make them more favorable). Also, there is no formal write-up on the research results; they have not been published anywhere. This makes us very skeptical of the LipoFlush research.

LipoFlush Conclusion

This LipoFlush review finds LipoFlush is really no different from dozens of other diet pills. They do include a few proven ingredients, but in most cases they fail to list how much of each ingredient is included. They try to impress consumers with a very lengthy list of ingredients. The price of LipoFlush is ridiculous. Don’t bother with this product. Instead, go with one of our recommended products; they contain the necessary amount of proven ingredients and they won’t break your bank.

]]> lipoflush

LipoFlush diet pills supposedly “dramatically decrease body fat, increase energy levels, preserve skeletal muscle, and provide major health benefits” (website). This LipoFlush review will dissect the exhausting ingredient list and reveal the truth about the research done on LipoFlush to show you that LipoFlush is not the product you are looking for.

Hydroxycitric Acid Update

On May 1, 2009 the FDA issued a warning to consumers to stop taking Hydroxycut-branded products. Over more than 7 years they have received 23 reports of health related issues with those taking Hydroxycut-branded products. The main health concern appears to be serious liver-related problems. Iovate Health Sciences Inc., the makers of Hydroxcut, have voluntarily recalled all of the products under question in the FDA’s report

Common symptoms of liver complications include:

  • jaundice (yellowing of the skin)
  • brown urine
  • light colored stools
  • unusual tiredness
  • stomach pain
  • itching
  • loss of appetite
  • weakness
  • vomiting

In light of the recent FDA warning concerning the possible dangers of Hydroxycut-branded diet pills, many believe that the associated health risks are likely due to the inclusion of the commonly used ingredient Hydroxycitric Acid, or HCA. And while according to the FDA, “The agency has not yet determined which ingredients, dosages, or other health-related factors may be associated with risks related to these Hydroxycut products. The products contain a variety of ingredients and herbal extracts.” you can never be too cautious.

So, while further study and research is needed to confirm the link between HCA and the liver problems, until proven otherwise any products that contain HCA are no longer recommended on this website.

LipoFlush Ingredients

Vitamin D3 (100 IU) does nothing for weight loss.

Vitamin B5 (10 mg) does nothing for weight loss.

Vitamin B6 (25 mg) does nothing for weight loss.

Vitamin B12 (1000 mcg) does nothing for weight loss.

Folic Acid (1000 mcg) does nothing for weight loss.

Biotin (100 mcg) does nothing for weight loss.

Potassium (99 mg) does nothing for weight loss.

Calcium (415 mg) does nothing for weight loss.

Magnesium (200 mg) does nothing for weight loss.

Zinc (10 mg) does nothing for weight loss.

Chromium (50 mcg) has shown varying results in clinical studies.

Choline (650 mg) supposedly reduces body fat, but studies do not back up this claim.

L-Carnitine (450 mg) has not been proven to contribute to weight loss.

Bioperine (4 mg) increases the body’s ability to absorb nutrients. It does not directly contribute to weight loss.

Citrus Aurantium (300 mg) contains Synephrine, which is a great, proven diet pill ingredient. The important aspect with Synephrine is the concentration–the higher the better. LipoFlush does not disclose the concentration of Synephrine it contains. Therefore, it is impossible for this LipoFlush review to determine if the Synephrine in LipoFlush diet pills is enough to contribute to weight loss.

Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) (100 mg) does contribute to weight loss, but 100 mg isn’t going to do much.

Cordyceps Sinesis (100 mg)

Garcinia Cambogia (400 mg) does contribute to weight loss.

Hawthorne Berry (100 mg) does nothing for weight loss.

Caffeine (99 mg) is a good weight loss ingredient, but there is not enough caffeine in LipoFlush diet pills to be effective.

LipoFlush Proprietary Complex 4000 mg

Acanthopanax Senticosus

Alpha Lipoic Acid(ALA)  helps produce energy. However, the human body makes plenty of ALA, so there is no need to supplement.

Banaba Leaf

Beta Sitosterol

Betaine

Capsicum

Cellulose

Cinnamon

Damiana has been shown to contribute to weight loss when combined with yerba mate and guarana. LipoFlush does contain yerba mate and guarana, but it does not list how much of each is included.

Genistein

Ginger

Grape Seed

Guarana has been shown to contribute to weight loss when combined with yerba mate and damiana. LipoFlush does contain yerba mate and damiana, but it does not list how much of each is included.

Guggul extract is supposed to increase thyroid function, leading to weight loss. However, research does not support these claims.

Glycine

Hoodia does absolutely nothing for weight loss.

Inositol transports fat from the liver. Again, LipoFlush hides how much Inositol it contains.

Kelp

Kola Nut

Lecithin

L-Histidine

L-Tyrosine is effective when included in doses of 500 to 1500 mg per day. It is unlikely that LipoFlush contains enough L-Tyrosine to be effective.

Green Tea is a very effective ingredient, but LipoFlush does not list how much green tea it contains.

Magnesium

Mucuna Puriens

Panax Ginseng

Phosphatidylserine

Quercetine dihydrate

Siler extract

Theobroma Cocoa Complex

White Willow Bark is an anti-inflammatory. It does not cause weight loss.

Yerba Mate has been shown to contribute to weight loss when combined with guarana and damiana. LipoFlush does contain guarana and damiana, but it does not list how much of each is included.

LipoFlush Cost

LipoFlush costs $69.95 for 120 capsules. If you take the recommended 8 capsules per day, one bottle will last 15 days. This is an outrageous price for a diet pill! You can find a more effective diet pill at much less cost. Check out our recommended products.

LipoFlush Research

The LipoFlush website claims there has been research done specifically on LipoFlush. The supposed research was done in-house (which usually means they have altered the results to make them more favorable). Also, there is no formal write-up on the research results; they have not been published anywhere. This makes us very skeptical of the LipoFlush research.

LipoFlush Conclusion

This LipoFlush review finds LipoFlush is really no different from dozens of other diet pills. They do include a few proven ingredients, but in most cases they fail to list how much of each ingredient is included. They try to impress consumers with a very lengthy list of ingredients. The price of LipoFlush is ridiculous. Don’t bother with this product. Instead, go with one of our recommended products; they contain the necessary amount of proven ingredients and they won’t break your bank.

]]> http://www.criticalorie.com/2009/lipoflush-review/feed/ 0 Thermo Cuts Review http://www.criticalorie.com/2009/thermo-cuts-review/ http://www.criticalorie.com/2009/thermo-cuts-review/#comments Sat, 21 Mar 2009 20:13:02 +0000 Susan http://www.criticalorie.com/?p=811 Thermo Cuts supposedly “aids in elevating your body’s metabolic activity by using fatty acids as a source of energy for muscle cells during intense exercise” (website). Don’t be taken in by the bold claims made about Thermo Cuts; this Thermo Cuts review finds Thermo Cuts is just an average, ineffective diet pill.

Hydroxycitric Acid Update

On May 1, 2009 the FDA issued a warning to consumers to stop taking Hydroxycut-branded products. Over more than 7 years they have received 23 reports of health related issues with those taking Hydroxycut-branded products. The main health concern appears to be serious liver-related problems. Iovate Health Sciences Inc., the makers of Hydroxcut, have voluntarily recalled all of the products under question in the FDA’s report

Common symptoms of liver complications include:

  • jaundice (yellowing of the skin)
  • brown urine
  • light colored stools
  • unusual tiredness
  • stomach pain
  • itching
  • loss of appetite
  • weakness
  • vomiting

In light of the recent FDA warning concerning the possible dangers of Hydroxycut-branded diet pills, many believe that the associated health risks are likely due to the inclusion of the commonly used ingredient Hydroxycitric Acid, or HCA. And while according to the FDA, “The agency has not yet determined which ingredients, dosages, or other health-related factors may be associated with risks related to these Hydroxycut products. The products contain a variety of ingredients and herbal extracts.” you can never be too cautious.

So, while further study and research is needed to confirm the link between HCA and the liver problems, until proven otherwise any products that contain HCA are no longer recommended on this website.

Thermo Cuts Ingredients

Chromium (300 mcg) has shown conflicting results in clinical trials.

Proprietary Thermo Cuts Blend (2970 mg)

Garcinia Cambogia Extract (Fruit)(65% HCA) does contribute to weight loss. However, Thermo Cuts hides the amount of Garcinia Cambogia it contains, making it impossible to know if there is enough to be effective.

NeOpuntia� Extract

Caffeine Anhydrous is simply caffeine. It does contribute to weight loss, but again Thermo Cuts diet pills fail to list the amount contained.

Phase 2® Brand White Kidney Bean Extract (Phaseolus Vulgaris) has been shown to contribute to weight loss. However, studies included 1500 mg of white kidney bean every day. It is extremely unlikely that Thermo Cuts contains enough white kidney bean to cause weight loss.

Green Tea Extract (Camellia Sinensis L)(Leaf)(40% EGCG/22% Added Caffeinea) does contribute to weight loss, but only when included in doses of 300 mg or more per day. Since green tea is included in a proprietary blend, it is impossible for this Thermo Cuts review to determine if there is enough green tea in Thermo Cuts diet pills to cause weight loss.

Promilin™ (Trigonella Foenum-Graecum)(Seed)(20% 4-Hydroxyisoleucine)

Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) does contribute to weight loss, but there is no way of knowing how much CLA is contained in Thermo Cuts.

L-Carnitine does not contribute to weight loss.

Grapefruit Extract (Peel)(20% Naringin)

White & Purple Willow Bark Extract (Salix Alba)(Bark)(15% Salicin)  supposedly enhances the thermogenic effect, but more research is needed to prove this.

Bioperine® (Piper Nigum & Longum L)(Fruit) helps the body absorb nutrients; it does not cause weight loss.

Vanadyl Sulfate

Thermo Cuts Cost

Thermo Cuts diet pills cost $25.99 for 200 capsules. If you take the maximum recommended dose of 12 capsules per day, one bottle will last about 16 days. This is quite expensive, especially considering the proven ingredients in Thermo Cuts are included in “proprietary” amounts (in other words, they put in very little of each ingredient just to say it is in there). Don’t bother with Thermo Cuts. Go with a diet pill that includes proven ingredients in proven amounts.

Thermo Cuts Guarantee

The Thermo Cuts website explains their 30 day guarantee. To get your money back, you have to have purchased Thermo Cuts through the website. Also, you have to call their customer service department and get a Return Authorization Number. At least 75% of the product has to be left for you to return the product. This return policy is a joke! If you only take 25% of the capsules, how will you possibly know if it works? Just one more reason to stay away from Thermo Cuts.

Thermo Cuts Conclusion

This Thermo Cuts review finds Thermo Cuts diet pills are really no different from countless others. They contain a few proven ingredients but hide them in a proprietary blend. They gouge you with the price and then make it next to impossible to return the product.

]]> Thermo Cuts supposedly “aids in elevating your body’s metabolic activity by using fatty acids as a source of energy for muscle cells during intense exercise” (website). Don’t be taken in by the bold claims made about Thermo Cuts; this Thermo Cuts review finds Thermo Cuts is just an average, ineffective diet pill.

Hydroxycitric Acid Update

On May 1, 2009 the FDA issued a warning to consumers to stop taking Hydroxycut-branded products. Over more than 7 years they have received 23 reports of health related issues with those taking Hydroxycut-branded products. The main health concern appears to be serious liver-related problems. Iovate Health Sciences Inc., the makers of Hydroxcut, have voluntarily recalled all of the products under question in the FDA’s report

Common symptoms of liver complications include:

  • jaundice (yellowing of the skin)
  • brown urine
  • light colored stools
  • unusual tiredness
  • stomach pain
  • itching
  • loss of appetite
  • weakness
  • vomiting

In light of the recent FDA warning concerning the possible dangers of Hydroxycut-branded diet pills, many believe that the associated health risks are likely due to the inclusion of the commonly used ingredient Hydroxycitric Acid, or HCA. And while according to the FDA, “The agency has not yet determined which ingredients, dosages, or other health-related factors may be associated with risks related to these Hydroxycut products. The products contain a variety of ingredients and herbal extracts.” you can never be too cautious.

So, while further study and research is needed to confirm the link between HCA and the liver problems, until proven otherwise any products that contain HCA are no longer recommended on this website.

Thermo Cuts Ingredients

Chromium (300 mcg) has shown conflicting results in clinical trials.

Proprietary Thermo Cuts Blend (2970 mg)

Garcinia Cambogia Extract (Fruit)(65% HCA) does contribute to weight loss. However, Thermo Cuts hides the amount of Garcinia Cambogia it contains, making it impossible to know if there is enough to be effective.

NeOpuntia� Extract

Caffeine Anhydrous is simply caffeine. It does contribute to weight loss, but again Thermo Cuts diet pills fail to list the amount contained.

Phase 2® Brand White Kidney Bean Extract (Phaseolus Vulgaris) has been shown to contribute to weight loss. However, studies included 1500 mg of white kidney bean every day. It is extremely unlikely that Thermo Cuts contains enough white kidney bean to cause weight loss.

Green Tea Extract (Camellia Sinensis L)(Leaf)(40% EGCG/22% Added Caffeinea) does contribute to weight loss, but only when included in doses of 300 mg or more per day. Since green tea is included in a proprietary blend, it is impossible for this Thermo Cuts review to determine if there is enough green tea in Thermo Cuts diet pills to cause weight loss.

Promilin™ (Trigonella Foenum-Graecum)(Seed)(20% 4-Hydroxyisoleucine)

Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) does contribute to weight loss, but there is no way of knowing how much CLA is contained in Thermo Cuts.

L-Carnitine does not contribute to weight loss.

Grapefruit Extract (Peel)(20% Naringin)

White & Purple Willow Bark Extract (Salix Alba)(Bark)(15% Salicin)  supposedly enhances the thermogenic effect, but more research is needed to prove this.

Bioperine® (Piper Nigum & Longum L)(Fruit) helps the body absorb nutrients; it does not cause weight loss.

Vanadyl Sulfate

Thermo Cuts Cost

Thermo Cuts diet pills cost $25.99 for 200 capsules. If you take the maximum recommended dose of 12 capsules per day, one bottle will last about 16 days. This is quite expensive, especially considering the proven ingredients in Thermo Cuts are included in “proprietary” amounts (in other words, they put in very little of each ingredient just to say it is in there). Don’t bother with Thermo Cuts. Go with a diet pill that includes proven ingredients in proven amounts.

Thermo Cuts Guarantee

The Thermo Cuts website explains their 30 day guarantee. To get your money back, you have to have purchased Thermo Cuts through the website. Also, you have to call their customer service department and get a Return Authorization Number. At least 75% of the product has to be left for you to return the product. This return policy is a joke! If you only take 25% of the capsules, how will you possibly know if it works? Just one more reason to stay away from Thermo Cuts.

Thermo Cuts Conclusion

This Thermo Cuts review finds Thermo Cuts diet pills are really no different from countless others. They contain a few proven ingredients but hide them in a proprietary blend. They gouge you with the price and then make it next to impossible to return the product.

]]> http://www.criticalorie.com/2009/thermo-cuts-review/feed/ 0 Phosphacore Review http://www.criticalorie.com/2009/phosphacore-review/ http://www.criticalorie.com/2009/phosphacore-review/#comments Sun, 01 Feb 2009 17:54:21 +0000 Susan http://www.criticalorie.com/?p=790 Phosphacore is a diet pill that will help you “Lose up to 25 lbs in 2 weeks!” (website). Phosphacore makes such ridiculous claims they are laughable. Phosphacore uses nearly every weasely gimmick we have seen to try to con you into buying their product. This Phosphacore review will unravel the reality behind Phosphacore diet pills so you know what you can truly expect.

Phosphacore Ingredients

Pharmaceutical grade Phosphatidylserine is supposed to prevent muscle breakdown. However, there is no evidence that it actually contributes to weight loss. It does not matter that it is “pharmaceutical grade.”


Cis-9-trans-11 Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) has been clinically proven to contribute to weight loss. However, Phosphacore hides how much CLA it contains. Thus, this Phosphacore review finds there is no way of knowing if there is enough CLA in Phosphacore to be effective (although, considering the rest of the bogus claims about Phosphacore, I would be shocked if there is more than a trace of CLA in Phosphacore).

Ascorbic acid DOES NOT contribute to weight loss.

There is no reason to believe Phosphacore will actually cause weight loss. It does contain CLA, which has been proven to contribute to weight loss, but there is no way of knowing if there is enough to cause weight loss. Do yourself a favor and go with a diet pill that actually contains proven ingredients in the appropriate amounts.

Phopshacore Guarantee

The Phosphacore website states, “Simply try this breakthrough new fat-loss product for 30 days. If you are not 100% satisfied with your weight loss results, you pay nothing… it’s yours free!” I must admit I was skeptical about this return policy, so I looked deeper. Upon reading the fine print, I found you have to return Phosphacore WITHIN 30 days in order to get a refund. Not only is this misleading, it is ridiculous that they give you less than 30 days to return the product.

Phosphacore Marketing

Phosphacore uses some interesting marketing techniques. First of all, they claim the nutrients in Phosphacore have been featured in Oprah’s magazine. While it may be true that Oprah’s magazine may have highlighted some of the ingredients found in Phosphacore, they make it sound as if Oprah’s magazine endorses Phosphacore; it does not.

The Phosphacore website also says you will get a free gift if you order today only (with today’s date listed). The truth is they change the date daily, so you get the same promise of a free gift no matter if you order today or next week. They also say “hurry, selling fast” to try to get you to buy Phosphacore today. Again, this claim was there yesterday, probably last week, and it will certainly be there in the future.

The Phosphacore website shows the typical doctored before and after pictures as well as fake testimonials. Don’t give them any weight.

Phosphacore Price

Phosphacore is available only on their website. You can buy a bottle of Phosphacore diet pills for $39.97 “today only.” Supposedly it normally sells for $79.95 (just another gimmick to make you think you are getting a good deal so you buy Phosphacore). Don’t think about buying Phosphacore; it won’t do anything for weight loss, and it will only leave you frustrated.

Phosphacore Conclusion

This Phosphacore review finds Phosphacore is misleading, ineffective, and pathetic. There is no reason to believe Phosphacore diet pills will do anything to cause weight loss. Read through our recommended products to find one that will work for you.

]]> Phosphacore is a diet pill that will help you “Lose up to 25 lbs in 2 weeks!” (website). Phosphacore makes such ridiculous claims they are laughable. Phosphacore uses nearly every weasely gimmick we have seen to try to con you into buying their product. This Phosphacore review will unravel the reality behind Phosphacore diet pills so you know what you can truly expect.

Phosphacore Ingredients

Pharmaceutical grade Phosphatidylserine is supposed to prevent muscle breakdown. However, there is no evidence that it actually contributes to weight loss. It does not matter that it is “pharmaceutical grade.”


Cis-9-trans-11 Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) has been clinically proven to contribute to weight loss. However, Phosphacore hides how much CLA it contains. Thus, this Phosphacore review finds there is no way of knowing if there is enough CLA in Phosphacore to be effective (although, considering the rest of the bogus claims about Phosphacore, I would be shocked if there is more than a trace of CLA in Phosphacore).

Ascorbic acid DOES NOT contribute to weight loss.

There is no reason to believe Phosphacore will actually cause weight loss. It does contain CLA, which has been proven to contribute to weight loss, but there is no way of knowing if there is enough to cause weight loss. Do yourself a favor and go with a diet pill that actually contains proven ingredients in the appropriate amounts.

Phopshacore Guarantee

The Phosphacore website states, “Simply try this breakthrough new fat-loss product for 30 days. If you are not 100% satisfied with your weight loss results, you pay nothing… it’s yours free!” I must admit I was skeptical about this return policy, so I looked deeper. Upon reading the fine print, I found you have to return Phosphacore WITHIN 30 days in order to get a refund. Not only is this misleading, it is ridiculous that they give you less than 30 days to return the product.

Phosphacore Marketing

Phosphacore uses some interesting marketing techniques. First of all, they claim the nutrients in Phosphacore have been featured in Oprah’s magazine. While it may be true that Oprah’s magazine may have highlighted some of the ingredients found in Phosphacore, they make it sound as if Oprah’s magazine endorses Phosphacore; it does not.

The Phosphacore website also says you will get a free gift if you order today only (with today’s date listed). The truth is they change the date daily, so you get the same promise of a free gift no matter if you order today or next week. They also say “hurry, selling fast” to try to get you to buy Phosphacore today. Again, this claim was there yesterday, probably last week, and it will certainly be there in the future.

The Phosphacore website shows the typical doctored before and after pictures as well as fake testimonials. Don’t give them any weight.

Phosphacore Price

Phosphacore is available only on their website. You can buy a bottle of Phosphacore diet pills for $39.97 “today only.” Supposedly it normally sells for $79.95 (just another gimmick to make you think you are getting a good deal so you buy Phosphacore). Don’t think about buying Phosphacore; it won’t do anything for weight loss, and it will only leave you frustrated.

Phosphacore Conclusion

This Phosphacore review finds Phosphacore is misleading, ineffective, and pathetic. There is no reason to believe Phosphacore diet pills will do anything to cause weight loss. Read through our recommended products to find one that will work for you.

]]> http://www.criticalorie.com/2009/phosphacore-review/feed/ 1 SuperFats Review http://www.criticalorie.com/2009/superfats-review/ http://www.criticalorie.com/2009/superfats-review/#comments Sat, 03 Jan 2009 15:47:04 +0000 Susan http://www.criticalorie.com/?p=747 SuperFats is a diet pill that promises great results. They claim, “The creation of a complete, stand-alone formula is the rationale behind SuperFats – the first supplement that offers a fat-loss solution grounded firmly in science and backed by nature” (website). This SuperFats review will reveal the truth behind the claims about SuperFats including what the science says and what you might be able to expect from SuperFats diet pills.

SuperFats Ingredients

Designer SuperFats Complex 2500 mg

Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) has been proven to contribute to weight loss. Unfortunately, SuperFats diet pills include CLA in a proprietary blend. Therefore, it is impossible for this SuperFats review to determine if there is enough CLA in SuperFats to actually cause weight loss.

Sesame Seed Oil contains L-Phenylalanine, which has been proven to suppress appetite. Again, SuperFats does not disclose how much sesame seed oil it contains. (This is usually because there is only a small trace of the ingredient included in the formula).

Theoretically, SuperFats could be a good diet pill if they disclosed how much of each ingredient they included (assuming the ingredients were included in appropriate amounts). However, since they do not disclose ingredient amounts, we cannot recommend SuperFats diet pills.

SuperFats Price

SuperFats diet pills cost $24.95 for 120 soft gels. If you take the recommended dosage of 6 soft gels per day, one bottle will last 20 days. This is about an average price for a diet pill. However, since SuperFats hides how much of each ingredient it contains, it is too expensive.

SuperFats Marketing

SuperFats is manufactured by Nutrabolics. Their website contains pictures of men with rippling muscles as well as beautiful, thin women in bikinis. Don’t be fooled by the pictures: most likely they are too good to be true. You could lose weight by taking SuperFats, but you won’t get the hard body they show on their website.

SuperFats Guarantee

The SuperFats website says nothing about a guarantee. It is always concerning when a company touts their product but is unwilling to stand behind it. If you buy SuperFats from another website you might be able to get a refund from that specific website. Be sure to find out the refund policy before buying any diet pill.

SuperFats Conclusion

This SuperFats review finds SuperFats does contain some good, proven ingredients. Unfortunately, SuperFats does not list how much of each ingredient is included. Go with a diet pill that includes proven ingredients in clinically proven amounts. You will be glad you did.

]]> SuperFats is a diet pill that promises great results. They claim, “The creation of a complete, stand-alone formula is the rationale behind SuperFats – the first supplement that offers a fat-loss solution grounded firmly in science and backed by nature” (website). This SuperFats review will reveal the truth behind the claims about SuperFats including what the science says and what you might be able to expect from SuperFats diet pills.

SuperFats Ingredients

Designer SuperFats Complex 2500 mg

Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) has been proven to contribute to weight loss. Unfortunately, SuperFats diet pills include CLA in a proprietary blend. Therefore, it is impossible for this SuperFats review to determine if there is enough CLA in SuperFats to actually cause weight loss.

Sesame Seed Oil contains L-Phenylalanine, which has been proven to suppress appetite. Again, SuperFats does not disclose how much sesame seed oil it contains. (This is usually because there is only a small trace of the ingredient included in the formula).

Theoretically, SuperFats could be a good diet pill if they disclosed how much of each ingredient they included (assuming the ingredients were included in appropriate amounts). However, since they do not disclose ingredient amounts, we cannot recommend SuperFats diet pills.

SuperFats Price

SuperFats diet pills cost $24.95 for 120 soft gels. If you take the recommended dosage of 6 soft gels per day, one bottle will last 20 days. This is about an average price for a diet pill. However, since SuperFats hides how much of each ingredient it contains, it is too expensive.

SuperFats Marketing

SuperFats is manufactured by Nutrabolics. Their website contains pictures of men with rippling muscles as well as beautiful, thin women in bikinis. Don’t be fooled by the pictures: most likely they are too good to be true. You could lose weight by taking SuperFats, but you won’t get the hard body they show on their website.

SuperFats Guarantee

The SuperFats website says nothing about a guarantee. It is always concerning when a company touts their product but is unwilling to stand behind it. If you buy SuperFats from another website you might be able to get a refund from that specific website. Be sure to find out the refund policy before buying any diet pill.

SuperFats Conclusion

This SuperFats review finds SuperFats does contain some good, proven ingredients. Unfortunately, SuperFats does not list how much of each ingredient is included. Go with a diet pill that includes proven ingredients in clinically proven amounts. You will be glad you did.

]]> http://www.criticalorie.com/2009/superfats-review/feed/ 0 Lipo 6X Review http://www.criticalorie.com/2008/lipo-6x-review/ http://www.criticalorie.com/2008/lipo-6x-review/#comments Tue, 23 Sep 2008 14:54:15 +0000 Susan http://www.criticalorie.com/?p=606 Lipo 6X is a diet pill which claims to be “the world’s most advanced fat burner” (website). Lipo 6X uses similar marketing strategies as many other diet pill companies; they have pictures of rippling muscles as well as outrageous testimonials to try to get you to buy Lipo 6X diet pills. This Lipo 6X review will determine if Lipo 6X is actually any different from countless other diet pills.

Lipo 6X Ingredients

Synephrine HCL 20mg
Yohimbine HCL 3mg
Acacia Rigidula95%Standardized To 75:1 Actives 100mg

Thyroid Stimulating Proprietary Matrix
Phenylethylamine
N, N-Dimethylphenethylamine
N, N-Dimethyl-A-Methylphenylethylamine
N, N-Methyl-B-Phenylethylamine
Tyramine
Hordenine

Caffeine Anhydrous 200mg
Synthetic Guggulsterones 20mg

Phase #1 Rapid Release Liquid Delivery Blend 600mg
Conjugated Linoleic Acid CLA
Oleic Acid

Synephrine is a clinically proven diet pill ingredient. When you look at Synephrine, the most important thing is the concentration–the higher the better. Since Lipo 6X fails to list the concentration of Synephrine included, there is no way to know how effective it will be.

Yohimbine causes weight loss by mobilizing fatty acid.

Acacia Rigidula is contained in many diet pills. Unfortunately, there is no scientific evidence to show it actually contributes to weight loss.

Phenylethylamine is often called the “Love Drug”. It is supposed to be a mood enhancer. Phenylethylamine is metabolized so quickly that there is question as to whether it even reaches the brain in time to have any effect. More research is needed.

Tyramine has not been proven to contribute to weight loss. In fact, it can cause migraine headaches.

Caffeine anhydrous is just caffeine. Caffeine has been proven to contribute to weight loss by increasing metabolic rate. Research shows caffeine has to be taken in doses of at least 300 mg per day to be effective. This Lipo 6X review finds if you take the maximum recommended dosage of Lipo 6X diet pills, you will get enough caffeine to contribute to weight loss.

Gugglesterones supposedly cause weight loss by increasing thyroid function. However, research has shown varying results.

CLA has been shown to contribute to weight loss. Unfortunately, Lipo 6X fails to disclose how much CLA it contains.

Oleic acid has not been proven to contribute to weight loss.

Lipo 6X Cost

Lipo 6X costs $34.95 for 120 capsules. If you take the maximum recommended dose of 4 capsules per day, one bottle will last one month. This is not too expensive as far as diet pills go, but considering there are only a couple proven ingredients included in proven amounts, $34.95 is too much for Lipo 6X diet pills.

Lipo 6X–No Guarantee

The Lipo 6X website said nothing about a guarantee, so I called their customer service to find out their return policy. The customer service representative said, “You could take the product and eat pizza every day, so there’s no money back guarantee.” I always question a company that is unwilling to stand behind their product.

Lipo 6X Marketing

Lipo 6X caters to teenagers. They show pictures of bodybuilders and say you can achieve the same look by taking Lipo 6X. How many times have we heard that before? The Lipo 6X website also contains the typical exaggerated testimonials which have no validity.

Lipo 6X Conclusion

This Lipo 6X review finds Lipo 6X is no different from dozens of other diet pills. It contains a few proven ingredients. You could buy these ingredients separately for much cheaper. Don’t be fooled by the “impressive” photos and testimonials; they are most likely fabricated. Look for a diet pill that can actually back up its claims.

]]> Lipo 6X is a diet pill which claims to be “the world’s most advanced fat burner” (website). Lipo 6X uses similar marketing strategies as many other diet pill companies; they have pictures of rippling muscles as well as outrageous testimonials to try to get you to buy Lipo 6X diet pills. This Lipo 6X review will determine if Lipo 6X is actually any different from countless other diet pills.

Lipo 6X Ingredients

Synephrine HCL 20mg
Yohimbine HCL 3mg
Acacia Rigidula95%Standardized To 75:1 Actives 100mg

Thyroid Stimulating Proprietary Matrix
Phenylethylamine
N, N-Dimethylphenethylamine
N, N-Dimethyl-A-Methylphenylethylamine
N, N-Methyl-B-Phenylethylamine
Tyramine
Hordenine

Caffeine Anhydrous 200mg
Synthetic Guggulsterones 20mg

Phase #1 Rapid Release Liquid Delivery Blend 600mg
Conjugated Linoleic Acid CLA
Oleic Acid

Synephrine is a clinically proven diet pill ingredient. When you look at Synephrine, the most important thing is the concentration–the higher the better. Since Lipo 6X fails to list the concentration of Synephrine included, there is no way to know how effective it will be.

Yohimbine causes weight loss by mobilizing fatty acid.

Acacia Rigidula is contained in many diet pills. Unfortunately, there is no scientific evidence to show it actually contributes to weight loss.

Phenylethylamine is often called the “Love Drug”. It is supposed to be a mood enhancer. Phenylethylamine is metabolized so quickly that there is question as to whether it even reaches the brain in time to have any effect. More research is needed.

Tyramine has not been proven to contribute to weight loss. In fact, it can cause migraine headaches.

Caffeine anhydrous is just caffeine. Caffeine has been proven to contribute to weight loss by increasing metabolic rate. Research shows caffeine has to be taken in doses of at least 300 mg per day to be effective. This Lipo 6X review finds if you take the maximum recommended dosage of Lipo 6X diet pills, you will get enough caffeine to contribute to weight loss.

Gugglesterones supposedly cause weight loss by increasing thyroid function. However, research has shown varying results.

CLA has been shown to contribute to weight loss. Unfortunately, Lipo 6X fails to disclose how much CLA it contains.

Oleic acid has not been proven to contribute to weight loss.

Lipo 6X Cost

Lipo 6X costs $34.95 for 120 capsules. If you take the maximum recommended dose of 4 capsules per day, one bottle will last one month. This is not too expensive as far as diet pills go, but considering there are only a couple proven ingredients included in proven amounts, $34.95 is too much for Lipo 6X diet pills.

Lipo 6X–No Guarantee

The Lipo 6X website said nothing about a guarantee, so I called their customer service to find out their return policy. The customer service representative said, “You could take the product and eat pizza every day, so there’s no money back guarantee.” I always question a company that is unwilling to stand behind their product.

Lipo 6X Marketing

Lipo 6X caters to teenagers. They show pictures of bodybuilders and say you can achieve the same look by taking Lipo 6X. How many times have we heard that before? The Lipo 6X website also contains the typical exaggerated testimonials which have no validity.

Lipo 6X Conclusion

This Lipo 6X review finds Lipo 6X is no different from dozens of other diet pills. It contains a few proven ingredients. You could buy these ingredients separately for much cheaper. Don’t be fooled by the “impressive” photos and testimonials; they are most likely fabricated. Look for a diet pill that can actually back up its claims.

]]> http://www.criticalorie.com/2008/lipo-6x-review/feed/ 2