Are Raspberry Ketone supplements a miracle weight loss solution?

My clients have asked what I think of raspberry ketone supplements for weight loss.

I found out that several of my clients watched Dr. Oz’s program when this supplement was introduced.

I have done some reading and research to understand how this substance works, if at all.

Raspberries contain raspberry ketone, the substance that gives the fruit its very distinctive smell. It’s commonly used as a flavour enhancer and is also approved for use in natural health products in Canada.  I’d like to mention that the raspberry ketone products on the market are made synthetically, because in nature this substance occurs only in very small amounts, so companies produce it in a lab.

The research

The weight-loss abilities of raspberry ketone have been examined in only a few studies. The animal research is based on mice and research conducted in test tubes. One study found that mice fed a high-fat diet while supplemented with raspberry ketones were able to reduce their fat levels.

Here is a catch:  No comprehensive studies have been completed in humans.

Several limitations were observed in the animal study:

1.     The mice were fed with high doses of raspberry ketone – about 2 % of their body weight.

If we translate this ‘discovery’ to a human ratio, we should conclude that the human would most likely consume higher doses of raspberry ketone on a daily basis for a prolonged period of time. This is not possible.

2.     Dr. Freedhoff, medical director of the Bariatric Medical Institute in Ottawa and an expert on obesity and nutrition issues said:  “I don’t think we’re ever going to escape the fact if you consume more calories than you burn, you’re going to struggle with your weight, and there’s no product that’s going to protect you from that”.

3.     Raspberry ketone stimulates stress hormones, which can increase your heart rate.

4.     Dr. Sharma, scientific director of the Canadian Obesity Network, pointed out that raspberry ketone could have unknown side effects or interactions with medications if taken by individuals. According to the above doctor, people often feel desperate to lose weight and are willing to try anything.

“The science is just not there. The studies aren’t there,” Dr. Sharma said. “I would not be spending my money on any of this stuff.”

Conclusion

While raspberry ketone supplements seem tempting, the most effective way of losing weight is still the same – metabolically balanced meals, exercise and healthy lifestyle.

Be well and stay lean!    

Maria