How Much Weight Can You Lose in a Week Using Hydroxycut?

Hydroxycut has become the most popular nutritional supplement for weight loss on the market, according to the "World Journal of Gastroenterology." The makers of Hydroxycut claim that their product can promote the weight loss without diet and exercise, but little research has been done to support this. Hydroxycut has also faced a great deal of scrutiny for its potential side effects.

The manufacturers of Hydroxycut market their product as a clinically proven, well-researched dietary supplement. Though not evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration, Hydroxycut claims a 21 lb. weight loss over the course of 12 weeks, not attributed to diet or exercise. This weight loss represents an extra 2 lb. weight loss per week from taking the supplement. Subjects that were a part of the company's clinical trial claim to have lost more weight than those not taking the supplement.

Additional Claims

Hydroxycut makers advertise that a key ingredient is caffeine; therefore, Hydroxycut is advertised as a way to support and enhance your level of energy. The company also promotes that Hydroxycut can help significantly reduce your body mass index. In an eight-week study done by the makers of the product, individuals taking Hydroxycut reduced their body mass index by an average of 8 percent, whereas individuals taking a placebo saw less than a 1 percent reduction on average.

Hydroxycut Products

There are number of different Hydroxycut products. Currently marketed products include ProClinical Hydroxycut, Hydroxycut Max! for Women, Brazilian Acai with Green Coffee Extract and South African Hoodia with Green Coffee Extract. Each of these products is advertised as having similar results in clinical studies. Over an eight-week period, individuals lost about 2 lbs. more than individuals not taking the supplement.

Considerations

U.S. health officials have linked Hydroxycut to severe liver damage and note that consumption of this supplement can potentially be fatal. In May 2009, the FDA warned consumers of Hyrodxycut to discontinue use of the product because of these health concerns. People taking Hydroxycut have reported symptoms such as brown urine, fatigue, stomach pain, jaundice and liver failure. Dietary supplements are not regulated by the FDA, thus they are not necessarily regarded as safe.

Alternatives

Dietary supplements may be able to help support weight loss, but if you are looking to achieve sustained weight loss or management, a balanced diet and routine exercise are irreplaceable. A diet low in fats and rich in fruits and vegetables, supplemented by exercising for at least 30 minutes a day, will help you reach your health goals over a sustained period of time.