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.

What is in Stacker 3?

The following is the list of ingredients contained in Stacker 3:

• Kola Nut (seeds) (4mg caffeine group alkaloids)
• Cactus Extract 12:1 (whole plant)
• White Willow Bark
• Grapefruit Extract (Fruit)
• Chitosan (Shellfish)
• Caffeine (anhydrous) 250mg
• Tri-Guarcinia3 Complex™ 25mg
• Green Tea (leaves)(< 1 mg caffeine group alkaloids)
• Guarana (seeds)
• Garcinia (fruit)

The Kola nut is supposed to diminish sensations of hunger and fatigue and also to aid in digestion.
No studies have actually proven this to be true. One study even found the following concern, “The more pressing issue however, is that there seem to be real cancer-related concerns with at least the tannin in this extract. Long term use could have significant affects on overall health.”

Cactus extract has been noted as an appetite suppressant, but more human research is needed.

White willow bark is an anti-inflammatory/pain reliever similar to aspirin. It may enhance the thermogenic effect and increase the body’s ability to utilize fatty acids while preserving lean muscle tissue. Once again, further research is needed to substantiate these claims.

Grapefruit extract has been shown to aid in weight loss. Dr Ken Fujioka from the Scripps Clinic in California led a clinical trial funded by the Florida Citrus Commission. One hundred obese subjects (average
weight 98kg; body mass index 35.6kg/m2) were assigned to one of four intervention groups (consumed three times daily before meals) for 12 weeks: (a) 7 oz apple juice plus placebo capsule; (b) 7 oz apple juice plus whole grapefruit extract capsules (Grapefruit Solution by Diaeta); (c) 8oz of grapefruit juice plus placebo capsule; or (d) half of a fresh grapefruit plus placebo capsule. No other dietary modifications were required but the subjects were required to walk 20-30 minutes three to four times weekly.

After 12 weeks, 79 subjects completed the study, with only group D, the fresh grapefruit group, showing statistically significant weight loss compared to placebo (apple juice plus placebo capsules). Body composition (fat, fat-free mass, bone, water) was not assessed.
Chitosan is made from shellfish. It is supposed to attract fat and expel it from the body. However, the research shows otherwise. One study found the following:

“In a series of three studies using three different brands of chitosan, we measured the amount of fat in the feces of about 40 people taking chitosan. The claims made by the manufacturer of the product tested included, “Block the absorption of up to 120 grams of fat per day and lose substantial weight.” We studied fat absorption by measuring fat in the feces of volunteers before taking chitosan and while they were taking chitosan. In two of our three published studies, chitosan did not block the absorption of any fat.2,3 In a third study, in women, chitosan did not block any fat from being absorbed. In contrast, in men, the absorption of 1.8 g of fat, or 16 kcal, was blocked. We calculated that it would take 7 months for men to lose 0.45 kg (1 lb) of fat using chitosan.”

Green Tea is one of the few diet pill ingredients we stand by — backed by serious amounts of research over many, many years. Read our Green Tea Review to see how we drew our conclusions.

Studies have shown that Guarana can lead to fat cell reduction (when combined with conjugated linoleic acid). However, Stacker 3 does not contain linoleic acid.

Garcinia Cambogia’s primary active compound is Hydroxycitric acid (HCA). Studies have shown taking HCA can promote weight loss. However, study participants took 1.2 grams of HCA per day. Even by taking the maximum daily amount of Stacker 3, you won’t get close to the necessary amount of HCA.
((http://www.tribulusterrestrisextract.com/garcinia.html))

Side Effects of Stacker 3

Stacker 3 has several side effects, including some that could be quite serious. These side effects include dizziness or light-headedness, headaches, and increased heart rate or blood pressure.

Stacker 3 Conclusion

Stacker 3 does not live up to its claims of fat burning and weight loss. Adding Chitosan did nothing to improve this product. Don’t bother with Stacker 3; you will only be disappointed.