Examining the components of good weight loss aids

When I was a kid, I would always take old, broken clocks, radios and even toasters, and take them apart, pretending I was fixing these then-useless household items. I guess I was always curious about how things worked, and what parts contributed to the working whole. Lo and behold, that curiosity has stuck with me as an adult.

I often wonder what it is that distinguishes a great weight loss formula from mediocre ones, of which there are many. After years of personal testing, research and discussion, I've realized that it comes down to the basic ingredients used in each formula. This seems very elementary, but the vast majority of supplements on the market fail to impress.

A supplement called MiracleBurn, on the other hand, seems to pull away from the pack on numerous fronts, including the quality of the ingredients. The formula is supposed to contain well-regarded weight loss aids such as the appetite suppressant Hoodia Gordonii, as well as the proven, patented fat burner known as Advantra-Z.

And anyone that knows anything about weight loss supplementation knows these pack quite a punch.

Tasty ways to help out weight loss goals

It can be difficult to try to lose weight on our own steam, without the help of a supplement, a gym membership, a counselor and so on. While the requirements for most diet plans are pretty basic -- eat right, exercise and take a supplement -- it really does matter what kind of products and methods you choose to incorporate into your own regimen. That's why you should look critically at any new product that comes your way; this includes supplements and nutritional formulas.

There are also those diet beverages that claim to contain nutrients as well as weight loss aids such as Caffeine, Green Tea Extract and Guaranine, though these are stimulant-based and may cause adverse reactions for some. Nutritious beverages such as those sold by Monavie may look appealing, because these drinks are supposed to contain 19 different fruits, including Pomegranate, Blueberry, Cranberry and White Grape. However, there is a little problem: Each bottle costs $39!

Mind over matter for weight loss goals

What do you think of the idea that weight loss has more to do with our state of mind than anything we are trying to do physically? It's the old "mind over matter" debate, which has introduced all kinds of books, research and other resources to help us get a better understanding of how we are impeding our own success by being mentally weak.

At ICanMakeYouThin.com, we see the author Paul McKenna marketing a book of the same name that claims that losing weight is a battle of the mind. The author seems to suggest that we need to change the way we think about our weight loss goals, namely by believing that we can accomplish the goals.

While there may be something to this way of thinking, many of us who have tried everything to lose weight with little success will attest to the fact that it really isn't all about the mind. We can try hard to succeed, but if we are not reducing our caloric intake and burning fat, we will get nowhere.

Maybe a potent all-natural supplement is in order.

Nutritional formulas vs. weight-loss-specific supplements

Many Americans take some type of supplement to boost their overall health and wellness, or perhaps to promote weight loss, among other reasons. The typical person might take a multivitamin or another nutrient-rich formula, whether it is because a doctor recommended it or because he or she would like to be more health-conscious.

One of the more popular supplements to come around is Flax Seed Oil, which can be found in many forms but is commonly available in tablet and capsule form. This natural extract comes from the Flax Seed, which is supposed to be native to the Western Canadian prairies, and is rich in numerous nutrients.

It is a good source of B-vitamins as well as Omega-3 fatty acids, which are considered the "good" fats to protect heart health. However, while it certainly couldn't hurt to take a supplement like this, I don't see it doing anything meaningful for weight loss support; it doesn't suppress appetite or help burn fat.

Total lifestyle changes for weight loss

One of the biggest mistakes dieters can do on their journey to lose weight and keep it off is to overlook the importance of balance -- balance in their nutritional habits, in making sure to exercise regularly and taking the right kinds of natural supplements. There are many things you can do to ensure you're on top of this.

For instance, you could check out one of the many books, Web sites and other resources that hope to serve as a guide for the above needs. A book authored by Dr. Mercola, called the "Total Health Program," is advertised as one of the most comprehensive reads out there for weight loss and general health.

While it is great that the author chooses to cover so much ground with this book, many dieters may find that they are getting lost in the sea of information in which they are thrown into. The author makes a connection between obesity and disease, which makes sense, but I wish there was more practical advice.

Nutritional supplements are not weight loss formulas

There are companies that would like us to believe that using their nutritional supplements, diet beverages, etc. are the best ways to support our weight loss goals. While taking a multivitamin and/or a multimineral can help us stay healthy overall, they are not the ideal supplements for those who wish to lose weight over the long run and keep it off. In order to do so, we need to eat right, first and foremost. And then we need to exercise and take a supplement based on proven weight loss aids, such as appetite suppressants and thermogenics.

A supplement called Metabocel is on the market as a multipurpose formula for those who wish to lose weight. The product is supposed to be based on such nutrients as Chromium, Pectin, Iodine and Zinc. While these are certainly important nutrients for ensuring our everyday health, I am not confident that this is the best you can do. While Chromium, for instance, can help regulate blood sugar levels, I would like to see appetite suppressants like Hoodia included in my supplement.

Cholesterol as it relates to weight loss issues

While there is a correlation between high cholesterol levels and obesity, they do not necessarily go hand in hand. For instance, someone that has high cholesterol problems may not necessarily be overweight; on the other hand, someone that is overweight may not really have high cholesterol problems. Both are signs of poor health and wellness, but that does not mean that one supplement or product can address both issues. Still, there are products out there that claim to do so.

A supplement known as Lipoxinol is on the market as a potent, multipurpose formula for those who wish to lower their bad cholesterol levels while promoting weight loss. The formula is supposed to be based on such natural ingredients as Green Tea, Caffeine, Guggulsterones, Bioperine and Kelp. Some of these ingredients can be found in many of the mainstream weight loss formulas on the market today, which may not really be a great sign. You want to see higher-quality ingredients, such as Hoodia and Advantra-Z.

Supplements that are affordable may be questionable

You might be tempted to save a few extra bucks by buying the weight loss supplements marketed in the bargain aisle of online and local retailers, but before you do so consider the pros and cons of doing so. The pro obviously is that you get to save some money while being able to use a dietary supplement. The con, however, is that you run the risk of using a low-quality formula -- one that may contain allergens and questionable ingredients.

An ingredient called Laminaria Extract can be found in supplements that are advertised as bargain buys. The formula is supposed to help address women's health and wellness issues, and it does not appear to be geared towards both sexes, let alone weight loss needs. The product is apparently priced at around $30 for one month, which is affordable compared to most supplements out there. However, you get what you pay for, and in this case that might not be the highest-quality product.

Testing dietary formulas before buying them

It used to be a luxury to be able to try a dietary supplement before buying it, but today there seem to be more companies making such offers. That's not to say, however, that there is an abundance of products backed by free sample offers out there, but you can find some high-quality weight loss supplements from reputable companies if you know where to look -- and what to look for.

A good supplement should contain an appetite suppressant such as Hoodia as well as a potent fat burner like Advantra-Z. A supplement called Hot Rox Extreme is on the market as capable of doing both -- suppressing appetite and burning fat -- but I'm not sure the formula is equipped to do this. The most prominent ingredient appears to be Caffeine, which is not a great sign. Also, the lack of a free sample offer is concerning, especially for those who are risk-adverse.

How to reduce your caloric intake with ease

Okay, so nothing as far as weight loss is concerned comes easy; that much is certain. Even though there are companies out there marketing dietary supplements, fitness plans, topical products and other items to try to get us to bite, we should all know that successful weight loss will take some effort on our part. We need to eat right, exercise somewhat regularly and take some type of natural supplement to improve our chances of succeeding.

But what about for those of us who have a particularly hard time curbing our appetite? We might do well for a few days, but sooner or later we are bound to break loose and eat to our heart's delight. Well, you can be stuck in the same cycle forever, or you can take a natural supplement based on a proven appetite suppressant called Hoodia Gordonii. Hoodia can help reduce your caloric intake by sending signals to the brain that your body feels full, even when nothing has actually been eaten.

Help: My hunger is out of control!

It is nothing to be ashamed of to have an uncontrollable appetite, especially these days where restaurants and others in the food industry are promoting all kinds of tasty food options. It really is hard to resist eating that burger or slice of pizza you're craving at lunchtime, though you would do better by opting for healthier alternatives. That is the problem many dieters are facing: They know they should be reducing their caloric intake, and they want to, but they can't seem to suppress their hunger.

That's why a supplement based on proven appetite suppressants such as Hoodia Gordonii Extract are so useful. A supplement like Hoodia P57 is said to be even greater because it contains 20 times the potency of the Hoodia typically seen in comparable products. Hoodia, of course, is a nice choice because it contains a molecule called P57, which signals to the brain that the body feels full -- even when little or nothing has actually been eaten. Hoodia has long been used by tribesmen in southern Africa to keep hunger in check, so you know it is not a gimmick.

Can I really eat whatever I want and still lose weight?

I am pretty certain that most weight loss experts are inundated with questions about whether they can reach their weight loss goals while maintaining poor eating habits. This is said, but it's true that most of us are always looking for the easy way out. This is no way to approach long-term weight loss plans, especially if you are serious about slimming down and getting healthier. You may be able to achieve quick weight loss with some of the fad products out there, but all that weight is likely to come back sooner than later. Weight loss is a lifestyle change, not an overnight formula.

A product called the Alli Diet Pill seems to be marketed towards dieters who wish to lose weight by blocking the absorption of dietary fats from their food. The company says that the formula can prevent the absorption of up to 25 percent of all consumed fats, which sounds great. After all, this theoretically means we could skip the salad at lunchtime and go for the greasy burger we're really craving -- all without feeling guilty. However, this type of mentality is dangerous, because you might be tempted to eat whatever you want, whenever you want. Besides, this type of supplement has not been proven in studies to work in the long run.

To go with the muscles or the fat-burning properties?

It's a tough decision to make: whether to pursue a program to simply burn off body fat and slim down, or to go for the comprehensive, total-body approach to also increase muscle mass and strength. I suppose the latter is more desirable, considering we all want fast results, but this may not be the best move. That's because weight loss and muscle development are, to a certain extent, mutually exclusive. That is, you need to focus on one approach to lose the fat, and then switch gears to promote the retention and development of lean muscle mass.

But a product called Calotren is advertised as a potent formula for increasing muscle development quickly, as if this is all you needed to reach your weight loss goals. The formula actually seems to be more suited for anti-aging support, with ingredients such as Collagen and Aloe Vera, two of the more common skin care agents on the market (Collagen is believed to be superior for that purpose). I would much rather go with a weight loss formula that helps suppress my appetite and increases my metabolism, two things that can help me directly with my weight loss goals.

Scare tactics to promote weight loss

Millions of Americans go on diets every year, but the problem is that millions more come off the diets sooner than they would like to. This is typically because of a lack of structure, focus and dedication, but it is also because many dieters are in the dark about what it is they need to do to reach their goals. For instance, not many dieters are doing the three essential things necessary for long-term weight loss: proper nutrition, exercise and natural supplementation to help reinforce the effects of the dieting and fitness components.

Dr. Mercola has a diet program out that claims to offer comprehensive support for dieters who wish to not only shed the pounds, but keep them off. The program is supposed to include tips on how to make your weight loss goals a lifestyle change, as opposed to fad diets that most dieters are dabbling with. The book says that there is a strong relationship between obesity and disease, which indicates to me that the author is using scare tactics. This might not be a horrible approach, but I would appreciate some more practical advice to point me in the right direction.

Buckle up to achieve the abs you've always wanted

A good fitness regimen will include both strength training and cardiovascular exercise, especially if you want to build muscle mass and strength while burning off body fat. I feel that many dieters and fitness buffs may be under the misconception that they can achieve rock-hard abs (the six-pack) just by doing crunches, sit-ups and other abdominal exercises; this is not true. You need to burn off the layer of fat on top of the muscles by running, cycling, swimming or a similar type of workout that gets your heart pumping. Of course, there are things you could do on the side as well.

For instance, reports indicate that many male and female dieters were able to reach their fitness goals faster by using products such as the FlexBelt. This is an ab-toning belt that targets hard-to-reach muscles such as the lower abs and the obliques, with the Electric Muscle Stimulation (EMS) technology. It has apparently been approved by the FDA to be sold directly to consumers, even though it is considered a high-tech fitness product. While you shouldn't depend on it exclusively to meet your exercise needs, it could certainly be a viable complementary option.

Attack your weight gain with two steps

We gain weight for a variety of reasons, whether it's due to poor eating choices or heredity, or even due to stress and natural causes. But the worst thing you can do is go on one of those restrictive diets that make you essentially starve yourself; this type of dieting is not realistic, because sooner or later you will have to come off of the plan. You need to eat, but eat the right kinds of foods, not to mention get some exercise. A good natural supplement can help you reach your goals without stressing you out too much.

A supplement known as Nuphedrine has been particularly well-received by the dieting community, according to numerous reports and accounts online. Prior users have nothing but praise to lavish on the formula, which includes an appetite suppressant called Hoodia in addition to a patented fat burner known as Advantra-Z. Together, the formula acts synergistically to help you manage your diet plan while making your workouts more efficient. And best of all? No side effects associated with stimulants.

Are you dieting or focusing on lifestyle changes?

There are negative connotations associated with the word "diet," and perhaps this is justified. When you think of dieting, you might envision starving yourself and depriving your body of everything you like to eat, such as sweets, greasy food and carbonated beverages. But the fact is that you should be avoiding these foods anyway, and focusing instead on eating healthful foods, including fruits, vegetables and whole grains. When you look at your diet as more of a lifestyle change rather than a temporary program, it becomes easier to manage.

The South Beach Diet is perhaps one of the most famous diet plans to be introduced to the U.S. marketplace. The reason it was so popular was because it structured a sensible diet program that functions like a normal lifestyle. You don't have to give up carbs outright -- just for the first two-week period. And then you can reintroduce the right carbs such as fruits and whole grains. The final phase enables you to take control of your eating habits without feeling like you are inhibiting yourself in any way. This sure beats the restrictive fad diets out there.

Would you rather work out at home?

There is an increasing number of workout programs that enable us to exercise in the comfort of our own homes. These packages usually ask us to have a DVD or video player and enough space to perform a wide range of motions for the workouts. You don't really need any equipment aside from the occasional mat, exercise ball, or perhaps even some lightweight dumbbells. But are these workouts right for you, and are they reliable for those looking to shed pounds and keep them off?

Turbo Jam is a system that enables us to get cardio workouts in the comfort of our own living rooms, which is nice for those who don't want to pay a lot for gym memberships and studio classes. The exercises are supposed to be combined with dancing and a lot of activity, so theoretically you could burn those extra calories if you stick to the program. But that's just the problem; you might find the level of difficulty pretty low, and that's no way to challenge yourself and push yourself to the limits.

Should I pay hundreds of dollars for high-end treatments?

If you want to lose weight without spending too much money, then you probably want to stay away from the clinical treatments that promise to help burn off the fat and keep the weight down. Many of these procedures may be non-invasive, but they are also known to cost a pretty penny. In fact, some may charge you thousands of dollars, believe it or not. So the question many dieters and fitness enthusiasts are asking is, do these treatments work, and are they worth the money?

VelaShape is a minimally invasive clinical treatment that uses all kinds of modern technology to target fat and help smooth out the rough edges on the body. The treatment is supposed to use a form of Bi-Polar Radiofrequency in addition to Infrared Light Energy and Vacuum and Mechanical Massage. What does this mean for you? It means that you will have to spend thousands of dollars to get pampered, according to numerous accounts. While some participants reported pleasant results, the vast majority seem to be undecided.

Use topical creams to help burn the fat

If you're doing everything you need to do to lose weight and keep it off, then you're likely eating right, exercising with regularity and taking some form of supplementation. A good supplement really does go a long way to help you reach your goals by suppressing the appetite and stimulating your metabolism. But what if you want to do a little extra to burn off the excess fat and even get rid of cellulite in trouble areas of the body? Aren't there topical products to address these concerns?

Look around online for a quality fat-burning formula and you might stumble onto www.MiracleBurnCream.com. There you can find out about what makes a topical fat burner great -- namely, ingredients like Organic Caffeine, Organic Safflower Nut Oil and Organic Aloe Vera. The formula has been shown to help trim the fat in problem areas of the body by going deep into the skin and burning off excess fat. While you shouldn't expect to see results within seconds, the results have reportedly been fairly responsive and long-lasting.

Ingredients for a potent weight loss formula

Obviously, you can't have a good weight loss formula without having great ingredients. That's why whenever I see a supplement advertised as the best formula on the market, I go straight to the supplement facts panel and read down the list. More often than not, I will walk away from the product without being impressed. There are a handful of proven weight loss aids today, so I feel we should stick to what works instead of venturing out to uncharted territory.

You want your weight loss aid to suppress your appetite so that you can reduce your caloric intake, but you also want it to boost your metabolism and help burn fat. That's why the ingredients in MiracleBurn, a well-regarded dietary supplement, seem to be so promising. They include Hoodia and Advantra-Z, which together have been proven in studies to help control cravings and to increase our metabolic rate.

Detox formula or laxative?

A good detox product could go a long way to help us meet our weight loss and health and wellness goals, but the problem is that there are so many products to choose from. That's why it is important to get a better understanding of what approaches have historically worked, and which have proven to be useless. A product that promises to solve all your problems, for instance, might be questionable and should be treated accordingly.

A company called Flush the Fat has a line of cleansing products for the digestive system such as Internal Flush, which contains ingredients like Flaxseed Powder, Fennel Seed, Ginger Root, Goldenseal Root and Rhubarb Root. However, while the company says your digestive system will be "cleaned out," this formula looks to be more like a laxative and diuretic than anything else. There are other detox options, such as foot patches, that have been shown to be very effective.

Cover as much ground as you can

It might be easy to fall into the trap of trying to lose weight with just one product or approach, but this is not likely to be the best solution. For instance, many dieters just rely on one supplement without getting any exercise or focusing on their nutrition needs. You need to eat right and exercise in addition to taking a good natural supplement if you are serious about your goals. That's why I like programs that are comprehensive by nature.

The Duke Diet has made some noise in the diet and weight loss community, as can be seen in the forums, message boards and consumer-oriented Web sites. Many individuals appear to have found the all-around approach, which includes dieting, exercising, some supplementation and behavioral changes, appealing. You can take supplements based on Hoodia and Advantra-Z to help suppress appetite and burn fat, together with this diet plan.

Cleansing as easy as 1-2-3

Much has been made of the purported benefits of detoxifying your body periodically, whether to boost your digestive system or to fortify your immune system; detoxing has also been shown to improve overall health and wellness, and some say it can even help support your weight loss goals. But many dieters and individuals are turned off by the idea of detoxification because most methods are rather high maintenance.

While most of the mainstream plans and diets for detoxification are certainly hard to follow for the beginner, there are products such as the CleansePatch that have been shown to be more pleasurable to use -- and effective. This product is based on herbal extracts with potent cleansing properties, and you don't have to stick with any strict diet. You simply apply the patch to your feet and go to bed for five nights, and then reap the benefits of a cleaner system.

Boosting energy levels without over-stimulation

If you have weak energy levels, you will probably find it is hard to reach your weight loss goals. That's because most sensible weight loss plans involve at least some form of exercise, in addition to a healthful diet and some supplementation. You need to sustain relatively high energy levels if you want any chance at working out on a regular basis, especially for cardiovascular exercises -- which is the key for burning fat.

You can find many supplements that promise to boost energy levels as well as to burn more fat, but many of these products are likely to be based on a lot of stimulants; this is not good. For instance, one of the supplements you might want to think twice about using can be found at Appuloss.com, where you learn that the formula contains Green Tea and other stimulants. While you might achieve a burst of energy from all the Caffeine, you will also experience crashing and jitters.

Do you know where your ingredients come from?

Many of us stop short of making sure that a supplement we're looking at contains high-quality ingredients, as opposed to considering where the ingredients actually come from. A good weight loss formula will feature proven dietary agents such as Hoodia Gordonii, which has been proven to suppress the appetite. However, as more and more companies have caught on to this "miracle" substance, the quality of the sources has become compromised.

Unfortunately, there is only a handful of supplements whose Hoodia content is authentic and as potent as the real thing. At Hoodia P57.com, for instance, we learn that the Hoodia comes straight from southern Africa, where tribesmen are said to have used the plant-based extract for ages. It has also been extracted to be about 20 times more potent than the industry standard, according to reports. That's far more than can be said for the vast majority of Hoodia supplements.

Being misinformed about weight loss plans

A good diet plan ought to incorporate not only nutritious foods but also reduced caloric intake in general. This is because of the old rule that you need to burn more calories than you consume (through exercise), but if you're eating 2,500-plus calories a day then you're likely to go nowhere fast. But how can we do this the right way, instead of wandering aimlessly through the sea of weight loss products?

FatLoss4Idiots is a diet plan that is supposed to use the idea that it is not the quantity of calories consumed that matters, but the quality. That is, the company says we should change up the source of our calories so as to "trick" the body into boosting the metabolic rate and burning fat. While it is certainly nice to hear that we could lose 9 pounds in 11 days, I'm not sure that this approach is scientifically sound.

Fighting a slow metabolism naturally

You hear people saying all the time that they have a slow metabolism and that if they could only increase their metabolic rate, they would be able to trim the fat and shed the excess pounds. While you certainly ought to eat right and get regular exercise, you may also want to take a natural supplement based on ingredients like Advantra-Z, a thermogenic that increases the rate of burning fat by raising body temperature.

A supplement called Evoxin is advertised as a great general nutritional formula, with ingredients such as Green Tea, Biotin, Carnitine and Acetyl L-Carnitine. Green Tea seems to be weighed heavily as the main active ingredient, but I'm not confident that it is as good a fat burner as the company would have us believe. It contains antioxidants, but it also includes Caffeine, which could be problematic for many dieters.

Getting market value for your supplements

Supplements are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination, especially if you are buying a new bottle or two every month for general health and wellness, dietary support and/or sexual enhancement. That's why it is important to know exactly what you are getting in return for your hard-earned dollars, especially in the ultra-competitive market for weight loss formulas. You don't want to be getting a mediocre product for the same price you would be paying for the best in the business.

A supplement known as Cortislim seems to be marketed towards male and female dieters who need help combating the weight gain associated with a raging appetite and stress. The formula is a blend of Vitamin C, Calcium, L-Theanine, Magnolia Bark and other nutrients. However, at around $40 or more per bottle, you would expect higher-quality weight loss aids like Hoodia Gordonii, a proven natural appetite suppressant.

The detox patch to end all detox patches

A good dietary supplement can go a long way to help us meet our weight loss goals, whether it is to slim down our waistline or whether we want to shed a great number of pounds -- for good. A supplement should help us address two key struggles: a raging appetite and a slow metabolism. Hoodia and Advantra-Z are great options, but what if we also want to detox our system?

You can go on one of those fad diets that require a restrictive diet based on a weird concoction of lemon juice and spices. Or, you can try one of those foot patches that have become popular, though not all are as reliable as they claim to be. The Cleanse Patch seems to be a crowd favorite, according to numerous online testimonials, for its ability to remove toxins and other impurities after just five nights of use. (You simply slap the patch on the underside of your feet and forget about it until the following morning.)

The power of the mind to overcome hunger

If we all had the willpower to resist our out-of-control appetites, then we wouldn't need supplements, self-help books and audio programs to help us along the way. But the reality is that many of us have a hard time knowing when to say no to that extra slice of cake or pizza, and we can use all the help we can get. The tricky part is figuring out what form of support is best for us.

There are programs like Provida that claim to hold the secret to overcoming our hunger, through a series of audio sessions and literature to educate us on making smarter eating choices. The program is supposed to be semi-interactive, since a different course of action is encouraged depending on our individual needs. But the question becomes, where do we stand after we are finished listening to the entire series? Perhaps a supplement based on Hoodia and Advantra-Z might be more practical.

A blast from the past -- where it belongs

The weight loss community was once abuzz with the discovery of a stimulant known as Ephedrine, which was shown to boost the metabolism and help burn off body fat. It was one of the more popular weight loss aids and fitness formulas to hit the shelves ever. Of course, that intrigue eventually gave way to the realization that there were many side effects that affected the heart and central nervous system.

And yet, there are apparently supplements that still contain this vile ingredient, which has been attributed to at least a few deaths in the U.S. A supplement called Metabothin appears to be circulating on the Web, even though Ephedrine has been banned in America. It's not clear whether you can still buy this product, but hopefully that is not the case and any mention of the supplement online is just residual.

Rapid weight loss -- is it a good idea?

If you've ever come to the point where you stopped wanting to do all the right things to lose weight gradually over a long period of time, it was probably because of a lack of tangible results that you could see and feel. You might have been tempted to just go for the products and programs out there that claim to promote a large amount of weight loss in a relatively short period; but do these work?

Leptoprin is an example of a supplement marketed as a quick and easy solution for those who need to shed a lot of pounds quickly. In fact, the company says this is a good option for anyone looking to lose 20 pounds or more. But the formula, which includes Garcinia Cambogia, Epimedium and L-Tyrosine, does not appear to be anything special -- though you may lose a lot of water weight.

Need a little help resisting cravings?

At some point during a diet in the past, we are likely to have come to the point where we realized that we wouldn't be able to starve ourselves like this for long. Maybe we lasted a couple of weeks at best, but the inevitable caving in probably led to some hardcore binge eating. The best types of diet plans have been shown to be the ones that require well-balanced meal plans and gradual weight loss over a period of time.

For those struggling to keep their hunger in check, a supplement like Hoodia P57 might come in handy. The formula is apparently based on authentic forms of Hoodia that is many times more potent than the industry standard, which is saying a lot. The great thing about Hoodia is that it contains a molecule called P57, which signals to the brain that the body feels full -- even if little or nothing has been eaten.

Thermogenesis with herbal extracts

We could all use a boost to our fat-burning properties, judging by the lack of fat loss even when we put in more than our share of cardio exercise -- and even if we maintain a healthful diet. While there certainly aren't any shortcuts to burning off the fat in trouble areas of the body, there are supplements that can help by boosting our metabolism and increasing body temperature.

This phenomenon is called thermogenesis, or the burning off of body fat by increasing heat in the body. A supplement called Fucothin claims to be capable of doing this effectively, but the main ingredient seems to be derived from Sea Algae. I'm not entirely sure what the idea here is, but I am almost positive that it would not be nearly as potent as Advantra-Z or another proven fat burner.

Health and wellness gadgets for the wealthy

The typical dieter might focus his or her budget on things such as healthful foods, supplements, fitness products and perhaps a gym membership. With careful budgeting, we don't have to spend hundreds and hundreds of dollars all the time to meet our weight loss goals, despite what companies will try to have us purchase. Consider that there are many products that are vastly over-priced.

BodyGem seems to be a nifty device for measuring resting metabolic rate. The product enables us to measure changes in metabolism, which could come in handy for our weight loss goals. However, while other comparable devices are known to cost less than $100, this company charges a whopping $800 for the gadget -- and this is without any of the addable options.

Curbing your spending on supplements

Lean times call for prudent spending, and these are lean times if I've ever seen them. Americans are cutting costs in areas such as recreation and health and wellness, not to mention housing and transportation. And yet, there seems to be an ever-increasing amount of weight loss supplements that cost way more than most dieters would be willing to spend. What's going on here?

Anorex is an example of a supplement that appears to cost way more than its formula and reception by the dieting community would justify. The formula, based on natural ingredients like Commiphora Mukul and Garcina Cambogia, is marketed as a fat burner and general weight loss aid. However, without proven dietary agents like Hoodia and Advantra-Z, I don't see how the company could justify charging around $150 for a one-month supply.

To burn fat the right way, look to the Bitter Orange

We all want to burn fat and slim down as we lose weight, but this seems hard to do -- especially with trouble areas like the abs and the buttocks. Companies claim that their fat burners can target these problem areas by zapping the fat on the spot, or by blocking the absorption of dietary fats. The idea sounds good, but are these reliable options for lasting weight loss support?

Adicor is a supplement that is marketed as a "complete fat-loss system." The formula is supposed to contain a broad range of ingredients, which may include stimulants. It seems the formula is supposed to act as a thermogenic, meaning heat is used to boost the metabolism and burn more fat. Unfortunately, I don't see Advantra-Z listed as one of the ingredients. Advantra-Z is the only known patented form of Bitter Orange Extract, a proven fat burner, at this time.

Overcoming obesity in ... just three days?

My ears perk up just as much as the next person when I hear about a weight loss product or diet plan that claims to show results in a matter of days. Indeed, some companies say that their methods can even cause overnight weight loss, though in most cases this is likely to be water weight drawn out by a laxative/diuretic. So, is short-term weight loss possible?

Sure it is. But I'm not so sure that this is the answer to our problems. We might enjoy a few days, or even a week or two, of reduced weight, but what happens a month from now, a year from now and so on? That's why a program promoted in books like the 3 Day Diet might not be the smartest choices. These types of diets tend to mislead readers into thinking we can solve all our weight issues in a matter of days -- true weight loss is a long-term process.

Identifying the supplement and what it can and can't do

One of the more common mistakes dieters make is to purchase a supplement that turns out to be nothing more than a multi-vitamin or multi-mineral, or another general health and wellness formula. A good weight loss product should contain proven dietary aids like Hoodia, an appetite suppressant that has been proven to help us reduce caloric intake -- without experiencing unpleasant side effects.

On the other hand, the 2 Day Slim Down is a supplement that appears to be billed as a comprehensive formula for weight loss support. Some of the purported benefits include reduced cravings, increased energy levels and even detoxification. However, the formula includes rather mild ingredients like Sumac Tea, Licorice Root Tea and Burdock Root Tea, none of which are well-regarded dietary agents.

Is your Hoodia source authentic?

If you inspect the majority of companies on the market that have a weight loss formula out there based on Hoodia, chances are that they do not get their supplies from authentic sources. This could jeopardize the potency levels of the Hoodia extract, which does not translate to our advantage as dieters. In other cases, the Hoodia found in the formula might be watered down with cheap fillers.

That's why when I look at a company that markets Hoodia supplements, such as Chitogenics, I make sure to find out if the source if authentic. The company markets all kinds of supplements, including Original Cleanse and Detox System and the PowerUp supplement. However, it seems the Hoodia has not been certified as authentic for this company's appetite suppressants.

Brazil is a source of many nutrients

No matter what industry you check out for health and wellness support, you are likely to find at least a handful of ingredients that are native to Brazil. Examples include Muira Puama for male sexual enhancement and Yerba Mate for general nutritional and weight loss support. While some of these products may be useful, you might come across many other ingredients that might not be as good as advertised.

Cha de Bugre is a natural substance that comes from a tree native to Brazil and is believed by some to have fat-burning properties. It contains Caffeine, which in small amounts may be okay but in excess can have negative effects, so you probably want to avoid formulas that contain additional Caffeine. But for fat-burning support, I'd much rather go for Advantra-Z, the proven, patented form of Bitter Orange Extract, a known thermogenic.

Massage your way to weight loss?

It might make sense to try a topical product to help eliminate some of the fat in trouble areas such as the thighs and abdomen area, considering that you may have had a hard time thus far trying to eliminate the fat through conventional methods. But before you go out and buy the first topical cream, gel or lotion that claims to be a magical formula, consider that only a select few items are worth trying.

Celrase may not be one of them, based on the formula: Cyclomethicone, Lauroyl Proline, Quinoa Seed Extract and Squalane make up the product, along with other ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid. This last ingredient is considered a good water-binding agent, but I'm not sure this -- or any other ingredient in this formula -- is good for fat loss support. I think Organic Safflower Oil and Organic Aloe Vera, for instance, might be better alternatives.

Be critical of topical weight loss formulas

I do believe that there are worthwhile topical weight loss agents on the market, but I also think that the majority of the products out there will not be effective. The reason for this is clearly because of the sub-standard formulas I've been seeing in most of the products for sale. The more conventional method of weight loss support might be oral supplementation, but if you insist on topical support make sure to check the formulas.

Cellulean is a topical gel that claims to promote a lot of fat loss in a relatively short time. Indeed, the company claims the product is "the most powerful liposuction alternative ever formulated for home use." But with ingredients like Yohimbe, Transcutol and Vitamins A and E, I'm not sure anyone will see the results they're hoping for. That's the danger of going with companies that hype their products up so much.

Test for authenticity

When you're looking to purchase a dietary supplement to help you lose weight, make sure that the product contains proven natural ingredients. There are many companies out there that seem to be trying to cash in on the lucrative weight loss market, with formulas that might not be authentic. (Many companies appear to be marketing formulas based on ingredients that are supposedly native to South America.)

The Brazilian Diet Pill is a weight loss formula that supposedly contains ingredients like Garcinia Cambogia, Gotu Kola and Carqueja. Of these, only Carqueja is considered a native Brazilian ingredient -- and it isn't even regarded as a potent weight loss agent. Instead, reports indicate that it merely acts as a laxative, which gives off the illusion of promoting weight loss by ridding the body temporarily of water weight.

Curbing our budgets for weight loss support

If you are in it to lose weight and keep it off for the long run, then you realize that you may have to watch your budget closely. The health foods, exercise equipment, weight loss supplements and other components might add up in cost. That's why I like to make sure that I am getting the most bang for my buck, especially when it comes to the dietary supplements I choose to take.

At Almased com we see a weight loss kit that includes a Protein shake and various guides and tools to help us stay on track. I'm not totally against relying on Protein shakes for weight loss support -- they can be very nutritious -- but I'm not so sure about paying $100 for this kit. You can spend a fraction of that for a good supplement based on a fat burner like Advantra-Z and an appetite suppressant such as Hoodia.

Sounds good to be able to eat whatever we want

Those advertisers sure know how to get our attention with weight loss products. There are so many supplements, creams, etc. that claim to be capable of promoting fat loss -- even if we eat cheeseburgers, cheese steaks and pizza everyday. These types of products usually say that the formula contains ingredients that block or absorb the fat, which is not as effective as you might think.

The Alli Diet Pill may be considered one of the more popular supplements to advertise such fat-blocking benefits. It is supposed to let us block up 25 percent of dietary fats, which seems like a good deal. But the product might lead us to falsely believe that we don't have to reduce our caloric intake or exercise one bit. This promotes a sedentary lifestyle without any discipline, which is a formula for failure.

What is the big deal with Caffeine anyway?

You might drink coffee every morning and feel fine during the rest of the day, but others might experience jitters and crashing throughout the day -- especially if they are addicted to the beverage and others such as Caffeine-infused soft drinks. Some might say that Caffeine is a good fat-burner, or thermogenic, but reports suggest that the potential benefits do not outweigh the cons.

Akavar2050 is a supplement based on ingredients like Green Tea, Vitamin B6, Magnesium and Guarana. Guarana and Green Tea are natural sources of Caffeine, so I don't like the idea of taking these pills everyday, especially for the coffee addicts out there. There are better options, such as the only patented form of Bitter Orange Extract available today, Advantra-Z.

Quick weight loss is questionable

I think it really is possible to lose a lot of weight in a short time -- if you want to keep the way off for just a few days, that is. That's because these magical products advertised everywhere do not tend to be good options for long-term weight loss. (All the lost weight is likely to be water and muscle weight, which inevitably come back after a few days anyway.)

Accelis claims to be a Caffeine-free fat-burning formula for losing "10.65 pounds fast!" I'm not sure where the company came up with this figure, but it is not likely to be based on concrete evidence and clinical studies. Ingredients like Green Tea, Oolong Tea, Chamomile Extract, White Tea and Passionflower make up the formula. But while these may be Caffeine-free versions, I don't see any promising fat burner or an appetite suppressant like Hoodia.

To burn fat more effectively

You hear of all kinds of weight loss supplements that claim to boost the body's fat-burning properties, but what kinds of ingredients do these formulas consist of? You really do need to get a closer look at these components if you want to be confident that the product will work anywhere near as effectively as advertised. Unfortunately, many consumers might not pay attention to this.

AbGone is a supplement that bills itself as a natural fat burner, with ingredients such as Vitamin C, Zinc, Chromium, CLA, L-Leucine, L-Valine and Dandelion Root. Some say that CLA can boost the production of Human Growth Hormone (HGH) in the body, but as a fat burner it has only been studied in animals. For better fat-burning potential, Advantra-Z might be a better option.

Meal replacement is not the same as weight loss support

You could incorporate some meal replacement products into your diet plan to help you reach your goals of losing weight, but to rely on these items entirely might not be the best idea. You might be familiar with the concept of meal replacement bars or protein shakes, both of which fall into this brand of dieting. But these food products tend to be limited to offering general nutritional support, not actually triggering weight loss.

Almased is a system that includes the Multi-Protein Powder, a program guide, a diet book and a measuring cup. The protein shake is said to be based on 52 percent Soy Protein, 25 percent Honey Enzyme and 22 percent Skim Milk Yogurt. This sounds very healthful, but again, these ingredients will not help you burn more fat or even suppress your appetite -- two things you absolutely want out of your supplement.

Block the fat so you can eat anything...

It's amazing what some weight loss supplements claim to be capable of doing, such as blocking fat from being absorbed by the body and promoting up to 15 pounds of weight loss overnight. But we all know better, and we understand that successful weight loss takes time and effort (even though that's not the sexy answer). So we should all be equipped to make smart buying decisions when it comes to supplements.

Then there are supplements like the Alli diet pill, which claim to be capable of preventing the absorption of up to 25 percent of fats. This might lead some of us to envision eating fast food for breakfast, greasy burgers for lunch and a pizza pie for dinner, but not so fast -- there is little research at this point indicating that this product's ingredients can deliver as advertised.

On the contrary, reports indicate that users experience side effects ranging from explosive diarrhea to oily stools and anal leakage.

Weight loss products that are way off the mark

Some weight loss supplements contain maybe one standout ingredient like Hoodia or Advantra-Z, and you might consider trying them if a free sample offer is available and if there are numerous consumer success stories backing up the company's claims. But there are many dietary supplements that seem to be way off the mark, so I hope that no one is actually buying these.

Akavar 20 50, for instance, is a supplement that is advertised as capable of both promoting weight loss and supporting overall health and wellness. The product appears to include ingredients like Guarana Seed Extract, Green Tea Extract and Vitamin B6. I'm not too keen on Guarana and or Green Tea -- though the beverage is another story -- because they are high in Caffeine.

Don't look to save a few bucks for fitness equipment

Many of us have some type of exercise equipment stashed in our homes, though whether we use them frequently or not is a different story. I guess most of us think that merely having the machine or device will encourage us to want to exercise more, but it rarely works out that way, does it? But hopefully you didn't purchase a cheap fitness product because you were drawn to the bargain-basement prices.

Ab Rail is a device that is supposed to help us perform crunches, which to me seems like a waste of money. Products that try to convince us that we can perform these exercises without breaking a sweat might be leading us on. After all, the best workouts are the ones with high intensity levels and a lot of sweat. At $15 for this particular ab-workout product, I think I'll look for higher-quality alternatives if anything.

The better way to stimulate the metabolism

I think burning more fat is at the top of everyone's wish lists, or they wouldn't be looking for a supplement in the first place. (Appetite suppression is the other popular desire among dieters.) But before you even think about buying a fat burner, consider that the vast majority of weight loss supplements that claim to do this for have not been proven to come through.

Ab Gone is a supplement that apparently includes ingredients like Vitamin C, Zinc, Dandelion Root, L-Leucine, L-Valine and CLA. The inclusion of CLA might lead some to get excited, since some enthusiasts claim this ingredient can promote a faster metabolism. However, this has not been proven to be as effective as Advantra-Z, the only known patented form of Bitter Orange Extract at this time.

Care to use the latest gadgets for weight loss?

You see all kinds of advertisements for little gadgets and machines that promise to help you burn off the fat you've been struggling with forever. Most of these devices seem to be marketed as portable, compact alternatives to the products you see at the clinic or spa. However, if you really think about it, you probably can't replicate the effects of those treatments through consumer products.

But you probably don't need to. With a healthful diet and exercise, along with the right kinds of supplements, you could be well on your way to losing weight and keeping it off. So instead of messing around with products like Velashape, which claims to be capable of burning fat on contact, why not check out a natural supplement based on Hoodia and/or Advantra-Z?

Sugar-coating stimulants: What's the deal here?

Hopefully you are making sure to keep up with the latest trends in the weight loss industry, considering there are new products hitting the market faster than you can say double bacon cheeseburger. This doesn't mean you have to bury yourself in dusty old books and conduct in-depth research at the library, but it does mean you might benefit from checking the review Web sites and official product Web sites online.

The Venom Diet Pill is a supplement that includes ingredients like Hoodia Gordonii, Guarana Seed Extract, L-Tyrosine and L-Carnitine. We're all familiar with Hoodia by now (unless you've been living under a rock!), but many dieters might not be familiar with Guarana. Guarana contains a stimulant called Guaranine, which when broken down is basically likened to Caffeine. Uh oh.

Can you lose weight by drinking diet teas?

It's funny how so many of my friends think that by drinking diet sodas instead of the regular ones, that they could somehow speed up the weight loss process. Sure, the diet formulas contain less calories and maybe even less sugar, but they are likely loaded with artificial sweeteners that could potentially do more harm than plain sugar can. And what about the diet teas?

Wu-Yi Tea is a beverage that is supposed to be based on traditional Asian herbal extracts. Many Americans enjoy tea on a regular basis as a healthier alternative to coffee, soft drinks and other beverages loaded with sugar, stimulants and God knows what else. But in order to lose weight successfully, you need to find something you can stick with. Consider that consumers report that this particular tea has a bad taste.

What is the big deal with Hoodia Gordonii?

If you're skeptical about all of the nutritional supplements on the market that claim to be superior to the competition, I couldn't blame you. There are probably way more ineffective dietary aids out there than useful ones. You've probably tried a few of these, whether they promised to help you block the absorption of dietary fat or they claimed to be capable of promoting overnight weight loss.

But chances are that the supplement you tried did not contain Hoodia Gordonii Extract. If you haven't heard of Hoodia yet, it is the most promising appetite suppressants to come around in a long time. It has been used for generations overseas, whether southern African tribesmen relied on the natural substance to keep hunger at bay. You can find this ingredient in potent quantities in a supplement seen at www.HoodiaP57.com.

A fat burner and appetite suppressant go well together

For those who wish to reduce their caloric intake and burn more fat, a good course of action might be a healthful, nutritious diet along with regular exercise and some supplementation. But not any old supplement will do; you want a formula that contains the best combination of a potent fat burner and a proven appetite suppressant to lose the weight and keep it off.

One of the most well-received weight loss supplements to hit the market in recent years can be found at www.MiracleBurn.com. There you learn about a formula that has Hoodia Gordonii, a proven appetite suppressant, and Advantra-Z, the only known patented form of Bitter Orange Extract available today. Combined, clinical studies show both short- and long-term support.

Is rapid weight loss really possible?

While the pundits say that you can't lose weight rapidly, I'm not so sure that is true. I believe you can lose weight quickly; it's just that you won't keep that weight off for long. You see, most of the weight lost when you hear about people losing five to 10 pounds in a few days is water weight. What happens is after a few days, they invariably regain that weight, with perhaps some more added weight.

Accelis is a supplement that promises this brand of rapid weight loss. The ingredients such as Oolong Tea Extract, Passion Flower Extract and Green Tea do not really seem to be of the highest quality, so I'm not sure how this formula is supposed to be fast-acting, let alone effective in the long run. I would have liked to see a fat burner like Advantra-Z and an appetite suppressant such as Hoodia.

Managing the cravings and hunger pangs

We all know that one of the hardest things about dieting is resisting our cravings and hunger pangs. They seem to strike at any moment and the type of food you're craving changes every time; one minute you want to eat a hot fudge sundae, and the next minute you want a double cheeseburger with fries. What can we do to take control of this part of our dietary journey?

AbGone is a supplement advertised as a superior choice for those who wish to manage their weight better. The formula is supposed to keep cortisol levels in check, with ingredients like L-Leucine, CLA, L-Valine and Chromium. Unfortunately, the product is not likely to help suppress appetite -- I don't see Hoodia or another potent appetite suppressant.

Customizing a plan for your body type

The idea that we need to customize a diet and fitness plan according to our body and blood type is not anything new. The proponents of this school of dietary support claim that no single diet plan will be right for everybody, so we need to tweak the kinds and amounts of food that we eat. Also, targeting specific areas of the body to work out may be reasonable, according to this method.

The 6 Week Body Makeover is a plan that obviously lasts for six weeks, but it encourages us to find a diet and fitness plan that works. However, while it is true that there is no cookie-cutter program that will work for everybody, there are things that everyone ought to do: eating nutritious, healthful foods, exercising on a regular basis and taking high-quality, natural supplements, for instance.

What does a realistic diet plan look like?

There are so many questions out there about what kinds of diet plans will work and what won't. We are worried about the smallest details about whether we are allowed to eat this type of food or whether we should completely avoid other types of foods. And then there is the exercising component to worry about. What is the best method of supporting our weight loss goals?

The 5 Factor Diet is a plan that is marketed as the diet program of choice for the stars. Created by someone named Harley Pasternak, the diet plan has apparently been used by stars such as Kanye West, Jennifer Lopez, Alicia Keys, John Mayer, Jessica Simpson and more. The five-minute meals and the 25-minute workouts focus on efficiency, and "cheat days" keep us happy.

Should I starve myself to promote fat loss?

No matter how many times research shows that starving yourself is not the way to go, people all over the world will still try this as a way to lose weight. Sure, we need to reduce our caloric intake and consume healthful, nutritious foods to reach our weight loss goals, starving ourselves will actually do more harm than good -- especially in the long run.

The 2 Day Slim supplement is liquid-based and is supposed to be consumed during a period of two days, with no other foods allowed. The product seems to contain some nutrients, but it is obviously a short-term solution, if anything at all. The weight that you lose will likely be water and muscle weight, and you will probably regain anything that you do lose.

Harnessing the power of the sea -- are you impressed?

There are some who swear by the purported ability of ingredients and substances in general derived from the sea for promoting overall health and wellness, and, you guess it, promoting weight loss. Most of the supplements you see today based on such components will probably include a form of Seaweed, Kelp or other vegetation that comes from the ocean.

Sea Thin is a supplement that is based on two ingredients: Brown Seaweed and Pomegranate Oil. Seaweed is often used in nutritional supplement because it contains ample amounts of Iodine. However, from a pure weight-loss standpoint, I feel that a supplement should help with practical issues like uncontrollable hunger or a slow metabolism. You can take vitamins and minerals for general nutritional support.

Keeping a fine balance between dieting and exercising

Just as you can't lose the weight you want by focusing too much on the dieting aspect of your program, you can't slim down by emphasizing the fitness component too much as well. The best approach is to acknowledge that both exercise and dieting are important for you to meet your goals, and so you must proceed accordingly. (Plan for both as if you were focusing on each individually.)

The Firm is an exercise program that claims to enable you to burn all the calories and fat you want by following the fitness routines. Supposedly, the program combines cardio workouts with strength-training exercises, which is what you would want ideally from your fitness component. However, some reports say that this program downplays the role a good diet can have -- just a heads up.

The best combo for thorough weight loss

When you finally decide to purchase a dietary supplement, you will probably want to pick up the best available weight loss formula, right? You wouldn't compromise on the quality, even if it means spending more than the $10 or $15 you would need to buy your everyday supplement from the local drugstore. This is because you are serious about your weight loss goals and you want a serious product.

Many dieters check out the Hoodia Advantra Z duo to meet their weight loss needs, since the pair has been shown to both suppress appetite and improve metabolic rate. Better yet, the ingredients are known to be more potent when taken together than when used individually. (And these ingredients are potent as standalone supplements so you can imagine how effective the pairing must be.)

Cleaning out the old pipes with low-maintenance methods

It might come to your attention at some point during your dieting journey that you might benefit from cleansing out your digestive system, or detoxifying your body of metals and other impurities. After all, if your body is bogged down by these toxins all the time, you are not likely to function at full -- let alone normal -- speed, whether for weight loss or for any other endeavor.

But before you go reaching for that colon-cleansing fluid or other foul concoction, consider that there are options available today that might not have even been thought to be possible a few years ago. For instance, the CleansePatch is an alternative method of detoxification that simply requires you to apply the patch to the undersides of your feet for five nights. It's that simple.

Overcome the battle with your appetite with ease

It's easier said than done to maintain a healthful diet that includes reduced caloric intake. It's common knowledge that unless you eat less -- in addition to consuming nutritious foods -- on a regular basis, you probably will not be able to even put a dent in your long-term weight loss goals. And everybody wants to lose the weight and keep it off for as long as possible, right?

The good news is that you don't have to battle your out-of-control appetite by yourself. (As weird as that sounds, it really is a fight between me, myself and I.) A supplement that includes a proven appetite suppressant such as Hoodia Gordonii Extract has been shown in numerous studies to effectively control hunger. If you don't know where to start looking, drop by HoodiaP57.com for a crash course.

The ancient secrets to burning fat with therapeutic treatments

As skeptical as you might be of certain claims made by makers of supplements, there are certain truths that have held up to the test of time. Some, such as the idea that a good weight loss formula will include a potent fat burner and an appetite suppressant, are held in high esteem today. But there are alternative treatments, such as those that involve wrapping your body in therapeutic towels, that may fly under the radar.

Some of the most well-regarded Body Wraps are known to be formulated from Organic substances such as Glacial and Seabed Clays combined with a base of Aloe Vera and a special blend of amino acids. The end result with the right formula is a slimmer waistline, thighs, arms or other areas that cause trouble. Select wraps can actually replicate the effects of the costlier spa treatments you see advertised everywhere.

Sticking to your guns to lose weight -- and keep it off

There is a trend in the weight loss industry that says that you and unique and special, so no single weight loss product or program is appropriate for everybody. This might be true to some extent -- some of us may have smaller weight loss goals than others -- but there are also certain inalienable truths to losing the weight and keeping it off. I find that going back to the basics is always a good way to go.

Then again, a book called Eat Right for Your Blood Type, authored by a Dr. Peter D'Adamo suggests that we need to configure a specific diet depending on our blood type. The idea is that we are all made differently, so we should customize a diet plan to meet our unique needs. However, I'm not sure that some of the author's suggestions, such as eating snails, would jibe with most of our sensibilities. The keys to weight loss as far as I'm concerned? A healthy, nutritious diet, some exercise and some natural supplementation.

Flex those ab muscles -- sort of

We always hear how doing a few crunches and sit-ups a day can help us to achieve that coveted six-pack ("washboard abs") in no time, but are these claims for real? Most of us know today that no matter how many ab workouts you do to strengthen the abs, unless you're also burning the fat off you will not see the fruits of your labor. That's why it might help to seek alternative methods for slimming down and strengthening the abs and waistline.

While many men take supplements to meet their overall health and weight loss needs, more and more men are reportedly looking into how an ab-toning belt can help them reach their goals to slim down. The FlexBelt, for instance, utilizes a form of technology called Electric Muscle Stimulation (EMS), which targets all the hard to reach areas of the abs such as the obliques and the lower abs.

Care to help yourself with a book?

I think it might be safe to say that the self-help category of books is among the more popular and growing subjects in literature today. That might be because of the idea that we can somehow coerce ourselves psychologically to make everything right, although in the end we are asked to put in a lot of our fair share of work. Of course, nothing happens overnight, so if you're looking for the easy way out think again.

ICanMakeYouThin is a title authored by Paul McKenna, who is a prolific author in the self-help category. His other titles include I Can Mend Your Broken Heart, Sleep Like a Log and Instant Confidence; the author also has a television show aimed at "helping" others lose weight. But I'm not so sure about the author's claim that it's mind over matter all the time. Sure we need to have strong willpower to succeed, but there are specific steps we need to take to achieve lasting weight loss that might not be addressed in this book.

Target the fat cells if you want to burn them off!

Companies will employ all sorts of tricks to get you to buy their dietary supplements, whether it's by playing up the popularity of certain ingredients or by advertising that you can lose weight overnight (both may be questionable). As a savvy consumer, it is really up to you to learn what is and isn't true as far as claims frequently made by companies, and then to make the best choice.

The MiracleBurn Cream has long been praised by critics as an effective alternative to costly and risky fat-burning procedures. The formula is all-natural, with ingredients like Organic Safflower Nut Oil and Organic Aloe Vera. The product is said to employ a unique liposome delivery technology that deliver the fat-burning components directly to the fat cells, where they are effectively reduced.

Suppress your hunger in your sleep!

There are quite a number of weight loss products out there advertised as capable of suppressing your appetite in your sleep. I suppose this might appeal to those that frequently get up to saunter over to the fridge for a midnight snack, but I'm not really sure that this type of weight loss formula will appeal to the masses. After all, we want to suppress the appetite in our waking hours!

Nite Trim is a nighttime formula for men and women seeking appetite-suppressing support in a capsule. The product supposedly contains Hoodia Gordonii, which is clearly one of the best natural appetite suppressants around. (It contains P57, which signals to the brain when the body feels full.) But I've seen at least a few formulas that contain both Hoodia and a fat burner like Advantra-Z, which together can offer support whether you're awake or resting up in bed.

Combine appetite suppression with fat burning for results

The formula for a good weight loss supplement is pretty simple, according to experts across the industry. You take a natural appetite suppressant proven to "trick" the brain into thinking the body feels full (even if little has actually been eaten) and throw in a natural thermogenic and fat burner, which will help speed up your goals to slim down and achieve the body you always wanted.

At Nuphedrine.com we see the combination of two of the most exciting weight loss agents in recent years, the appetite suppressant Hoodia Gordonii and the fat burner Advantra-Z. Hoodia's effectiveness for suppressing appetite has been well-documented, but Advantra-Z still remains a mystery to many. This ingredient is the only known patented form of Bitter Orange Extract, a powerful thermogenic, available today.

Taking a page out of programs for alcoholics

There seem to be many different options for those who wish to lose weight without being told the same things over again: Eat right, exercise and take some form of natural supplementation. But these three things are the very routines that will help you lose weight in the long run. After all, who wants to lose weight for just a short while, when lasting weight loss is attainable?

Overeaters Anonymous Food Plan is a program that is supposed to use accountability and baby steps to encourage overweight individuals to stick to their plans. The idea seems to be taken out of the pages of the Alcoholics Anonymous program that some people have had success with. Unfortunately, not all overweight people are overeaters, and not everyone will be amenable to the high degree of interaction necessary in this program.

The dangers associated with rapid weight loss

If you thought you could lose as much weight as you wanted without really putting in the time and effort, then think again. Sure, supplements can help you reach your goals, but there isn't any magical pill that will cause you to lose 15 to 20 pounds in less than a week, a claim made by some companies, surprisingly. You need to eat right, exercise and take a good natural supplement.

At the QuickWeightLossCenters located around the country, we are told that we can lose as much weight as we want. The company says that losing three to seven pounds every week is not out of your reach. This should immediately raise some red flags, since losing this much weight this quickly can actually be dangerous. Even if you did lose a lot of weight quickly, you're likely to get it back before you know it.

Two different formulas for morning and nighttime use

If you really want to lose weight and keep it off, your eyes have probably been peeled for any hint of a supplement, topical formula or program that might deliver results. Your search may have led you to some questionable experiences, considering the great number of less-than-promising weight loss products in today's market.

SimplyWeightLoss is a program that includes a daytime and nighttime formula that supposedly consist of herbal ingredients. The program also includes an exercise regimen and other guidelines, but the six-week plan may be a pain simply because of the morning and nighttime formulas that you have to use. They don't even contain a potent appetite suppressant or fat burner.

Know the companies you're purchasing from

It might seem like common sense, but many consumers do not really know the companies they are purchasing from. It is so important to research whether the company has a good reputation for producing quality supplements and good customer service or whether you might be in line for a nightmare experience. The best companies offer perks like free trials, money-back offers and discounts on bulk orders.

But you also want to make sure that the company specializes in weight loss formulas, unless of course you want to support general nutrition and overall health. A brand like MetaSystem advertises many weight loss products, but a closer look reveals that the formulas will serve more appropriately as general nutritional products. For instance, the supplements contains Fiber, Caffeine and other nutrients that might not directly promote weight loss.

You can't have one without the other

I've noticed that the best weight loss supplements on the market today combine a powerful appetite suppressant with the potency of a thermogenic, or fat burner. There are so many supplements that contain one or the other, which likely will not have the same desired effects for most of our purposes. After all, we all need to reduce our caloric intake, and we all would like to burn more fat.

Nutrex Research Lipo 6 is a supplement that appears to be geared mainly towards fitness enthusiasts and bodybuilders looking for more energy and enhanced metabolic rate. According to reports, the formula includes ingredients like Synephrine, Caffeine, Guggulsterones and Yohimbine. Synephrine and Caffeine are stimulants that may boost energy, while Yohimbine is said to boost circulation and blood flow. Unfortunately, this formula lacks an appetite suppressant.

Be free of side effects without compromising on quality

I am a fan of weight loss supplements that contain a combination of appetite suppressants and thermogenics, or fat burners, but I avoid formulas that cause side effects like the plague. The whole point of using natural supplements and avoiding prescription drugs is to prevent side effects and other adverse reactions. The sad truth, however, is that many natural supplements on the market will let you down.

When it comes to well-regarded weight loss supplements like MiracleBurn side effects of the more well-known prescription drugs are not relevant. This product contains both Hoodia and Advantra-Z, which have been shown to suppress appetite and burn fat, respectively. Since these components are naturally derived from herb- an plant-based sources, you will not experience jitters, crashing or other adverse reactions associated with stimulants.

The difference between nutrition and weight loss products

Not all healthful supplements and general nutritional formulas will promote weight loss, no matter how much the company insists you will lose all the weight you want. Of course, there is no such thing as the magic pill for overnight weight loss -- you have to eat right and exercise, and a supplement can help speed up these goals. General nutritional supplements, however, may not directly address weight loss issues.

Right Size Smoothies are one of the products marketed by this company, which seems to specialize in meal replacement foods and general nutritional products. The company claims that the formulas are based on ample amounts of nutrients, including vitamins and minerals packed with antioxidant power. Unfortunately, none of the products contain Hoodia, an appetite suppressant, or Advantra-Z, a potent fat burner.

Prescription drugs may not be worth the marginal weight loss

Certain prescription drugs are known to promote weight loss, but most products may cause side effects that don't justify the marginal weight loss results. While even natural supplements may cause undesirable reactions, the risk of experiencing both mild and serious side effects greatly increases when using pharmaceutical-grade drugs -- this is just how it has always been.

Phendimetrazine is an example of one of the more well-known weight loss drugs on the market for those who would like to suppress their appetite. There are actually herbal alternatives that can help with this, such as Hoodia, but proponents of this drug claim this is more potent because it functions as an amphetamine; it also directly interacts with the central nervous system, which may adversely affect blood pressure and heart rate.

One-dimensional products are so ... one-dimensional

As our lives get busier and our demands get greater, more and more companies are offering comprehensive nutritional supplements. Even dietary formulas are currently available to meet various needs, whether you want to suppress your appetite and reduce caloric intake, boost energy levels or stimulate your metabolism and burn more fat. Some supplements can address each and every one of these issues.

SlimaLuma is a plant-based ingredient that takes on the standardized form of Caralluma Fimbriata. You may have seen this name thrown around on infomercials or maybe picked up on it in a health magazine, but I'm not really convinced that it is the ideal appetite suppressant. It actually hasn't been shown to excel at any one thing, unlike Hoodia Gordonii, which has been proven in clinical studies and a long history of anecdotal reports to be highly effective.

I love having food delivered to me

Food delivery service is one of the best inventions ever in my opinion, although the kinds of foods that are most frequently available for delivery will be bad for you -- pizza and Chinese food, for instance. But these days we are seeing more and more services for people who want to eat healthier and have nutritious, well-balanced foods brought to their doorstep, ready to heat and serve.

For instance, Seattle Sutton is a service that claims to offer a wide range of choices to fit every palate and meet every need, which is a pretty bold assertion. Supposedly, the foods are "simple" and balanced in terms of food-group distribution, which is nice to know. Unfortunately, the company only serves select cities in the U.S., so you might have the short end of the stick if you fall outside the zone.

Is the company's word good?

I don't know about you, but I'm finding it harder and harder to tell these days whether a weight loss product will come through or not. More and more companies are catching on to the wonder that is Hoodia, a natural appetite suppressant that comes from Africa, as well as leading fat burners like Advantra-Z. The problem is that not all formulations that include this ingredients will be complete.

At RemovylDirect.com we see a supplement that is marketed as a magical pill for those who wish to lose weight almost overnight -- with little to no effort on their part. While the specifics of the ingredients seem vague, the company claims you'll see 13 different essential oils. This doesn't seem that promising, and the fact that there is only one positive consumer testimonial on the official Web site concerns me.

Satisfy your sweet tooth and lose weight?

Ever since Hoodia was discovered in the Western world as an effective natural appetite suppressant, we've seen all kinds of strange products hit the market. For instance, you see those meal replacement bars that supposedly contain Hoodia, as well as beverages, taffy chews and even lollipops. But are these products comprised of authentic forms of Hoodia or are they just rip-offs?

Power Pops is a brand of lollipops that are supposed to taste great and still suppress the appetite. According to advertisements, you can supposedly lose weight even while satisfying your sweet tooth, which could bring together the best of both worlds. But while the formula may include Hoodia, it also includes moderate amounts of Caffeine as well as other questionable components. Plus, at $25, the price tag is a bit hefty for lollipops in my opinion.

The option to work out from home might be enticing

For stay-at-home moms or for those who work from home, perhaps as independent contractors, the option of working out at the comfort of one's living room might sound alluring. After all, if we don't have to leave home to get a good cardiovascular workout, why should we, right? Gym memberships can be costly, and other outdoor exercises might invite the risk of injury.

If you're looking for DVD workouts P90x seems to be one of the more heavily marketed at-home workout programs. You can see the late-night infomercials that really talk up this product's potential, though it essentially seems to be very similar to the other video and DVD fitness programs you see out there. This set has 12 workouts, which some say can be too elementary to meet most needs.

Use DVDs but don't depend on them for too long

While many dieters and fitness enthusiasts have been purchasing DVDs and videos to meet their fitness needs at the comfort of their own homes, others prefer to exercise outdoors, whether this means jogging or swimming, or perhaps even cycling. I have found that depending too heavily on at-home workout programs breeds laziness and can really limit your goals and long-term progress.

At Slim in 6 com you learn that the program is created by Debbie Sieber, who promises that anyone can reach their weight loss goals if they just follow the program for six weeks. I like the idea of setting long-term goals, but I am disappointed in the many reports that indicate that the difficulty level of these workouts is fairly low.

When you need immediate results, wrap it up!

Thanks to the fusion between traditional therapeutic practices and modern science, we are now able to support our weight loss goals better than ever before. Supplements are the conventional method of supporting our weight loss and general health goals, and they can be effective when the right ingredients are used. (Hoodia and Advantra-Z lead the pack as of this posting.)

But for those who are short on time and need immediate results, alternative methods have become more popular. For instance, according to numerous reviews Body Wrap is a viable option for those who want to target specific areas of their body that might be suffering from excess fat and cellulite. You simply wrap your body in these therapeutic sheets, just like in the spa, and voila!

Your feet could be the key to successful detox

Believe it or not, you may not have to punish your body with restrictive diet plans and foul-tasting supplements and concoctions in order to detox your body. Some of the more well-documented methods for detoxification include going on a hardcore diet that might include drinking a lemon-based beverage and only that beverage during the course of the program.

But then there are those Foot Patches that have been shown to be capable of cleansing the body without requiring any of these extreme measures. The Cleanse Patch is one of the more intriguing patch-based products, considering it just has to be used for five nights. When all is said and done, reports indicate that the patch will remove the metals and toxins from your system.

Exercise to burn fat, but topical creams can help

If your goal is to burn off as much fat as possible, then you probably know that you have to get as much cardiovascular exercise in as possible. You simply aren't going to shed those pounds if you aren't out there burning off the calories and getting your metabolism revving. Now, there are supplements that can help, and certain topical creams can reinforce your goals.

The Miracle Fat Burning Cream has created waves ever since it hit the market a while ago, with users reporting both near- and long-term improvements in the amount of fat and cellulite being burned off. The formula consists of 100 percent organic ingredients like Aloe Vera and Safflower Nut Oil. This insures that no one will experience any disastrous side effects.

Don't worry about side effects with these formulas

It is a perfectly legitimate concern to worry about side effects when it comes to taking dietary supplements, considering most of the mainstream products are likely to cause adverse reactions. The point of using herbal formulas is to avoid the side effects associated with prescription medications, so I would hate it if I were to experience allergic reactions and other effects with a natural supplement.

Fortunately, those worried about the side effects of MiracleBurn can lay their concerns to rest. The formula contains Hoodia Gordonii and Advantra-Z, two of the most promising dietary agents available today. Hoodia is nature's finest appetite suppressant, with generations of use behind it. Advantra-Z, meanwhile, is the only known patented form of Bitter Orange Extract at this time.

A clearly delineated weight loss program

I am definitely a fan of setting specific ground rules for your weight loss program, but that doesn't mean that you have to stick with one of those restrictive diet plans. These include programs that claim that you have to follow only their guidelines and use their products. There is no one answer to successful weight loss, so be selective about the types of supplements and programs you go with.

RightSize is a program that includes consuming meal replacement shakes, taking certain supplements and going through counseling. While the close watch this company endorses might be some individuals' cup of tea, for most of us it might be too restrictive to suit our tastes. You might be better off just doing the little things, like eating right, exercising regularly and taking an appetite-suppressant- and fat-burner-based supplement.

Biting the bullet doesn't always apply to weight loss

It's true that sometimes you have to accept that you have to make tough decisions in order to lose the amount of weight you want -- and keep it off. For example, you will likely have to resist the urges to scarf down a whole slice of death-by-chocolate cake for your midnight snack; reduced caloric intake is a prerequisite.

However, when it comes to weight loss supplementation you do not necessarily have to put up with adverse reactions to get the most out of your experience. A good formula will actually be effective in suppressing appetite and/or burning fat without causing adverse reactions. Unfortunately, with the pill at My Alli.com, you might experience explosive diarrhea and anal leakage, among other disturbing effects.

This will not make you thin

Clever marketing is one thing, but companies that take their gimmicky weight loss products seriously is a laughing matter. I'm astounded at the number of supplements, devices, topical formulas and books that are advertised as capable of promoting specific amounts of weight loss practically overnight. Everyone knows true weight loss takes time and careful planning.

"I Can Make You Thin" is a book authored by Paul McKenna, who is not really considered a nutritionist, dietician, physician or other specialist. He actually writes other self-help books, including titles like "Quit Smoking Today Without Gaining Weight" and "I Can Mend Your Broken Heart." Most of the tips in these books are common sense, so I would save my $20 and invest it towards a good supplement.

Picking out the ingredients that make it count

Many dieters overlook a crucial component of any sound weight loss plan: the quality and type of supplement you are using. Don't buy into the hype of some of the products marketed as magic pills, as we all know that no formula short of a miracle can promote overnight weight loss. (Any product that claims to do so is probably a sham, or any weight you lose will be water weight.)

One of the things I love about some of the more specialized dietary supplements is that they contain promising natural ingredients to help suppress appetite and stimulate the metabolism. For instance, in MiracleBurn you will find Hoodia Gordonii and Advantra-Z, two ingredients that have been well-regarded individually but whose synergistic effects are celebrated.

You're in it to win it, aren't you?

Don't ever go into a diet program half-heartedly; you're bound to make mistakes and perhaps even dig a deeper hole than you might have already been in. It's helpful to set specific goals that you know you can reach, and then to execute them. Baby steps are key to getting to where you need to be.

While many of us just want to lose weight, a lot of dieters also want to slim down their waistline and burn fat. Perhaps they also want to get rid of excess cellulite in hard-to-reach areas like the buttocks and thighs. Sure, cardio exercise will help you burn the fat off, but a product like the FlexBelt, an FDA-approved ab-toning belt, can greatly enhance your chances of success.

How effective can accountability be?

Some of us need more accountability than others, but when it comes down to the wire we could all use some support or that extra push to keep us on the right path. That's why many women and men seem to join those weight loss programs that often include counselor-moderated diet and fitness plans. Are these options right for everyone?

Slim 4 Life is one of the many programs you'll come across in your search, but one of the drawbacks of this program might be that it is an entirely in-person program. This means that unless you live by one of the company's three locations in the U.S., you will be out of luck. An online equivalent is not offered by the company at this time, which suggests it is behind the times.

Be side-effect-free with these simple steps

You can't control what kinds of ingredients you will be allergic to or how your body will respond to certain substances, but you can stay on top of the products you choose to put into your body. Education is the first step to becoming a savvy consumer and dieter, which is so important these days as more and more questionable products hit the market.

Some dietary products will cause all kinds of side effects, from mild ones like headache and nausea to more serious ones like oily stools and anal leakage. Fortunately, there are premium weight loss formulas at the higher end of the market that have been proven to be both safe and effective. If you want to avoid side effects Miracle Burn might be a viable long-term option.

Keep your hunger in check with this

It's no easy task to reduce your caloric intake over a long stretch of time, but we all know we have to cut back on calories in order to lose the weight we want. So how are we supposed to accomplish this, if we give in to our cravings every time we come across a cheeseburger or ice cream sundae? Some supplements can help.

Not all weight loss supplements are created equal. From the manufacturing and extraction techniques to the final interactions between company and consumer, some companies have it down pat. A supplement called Hoodia P57, for instance, is regarded for its ability to suppress the appetite and stimulate the metabolism. The company is also respected in the industry for producing quality products.

Slap the patch on your feet and hit the sack

Some of the more interesting weight loss and detox products on the market are both easy to use and effective for immediate and long-term support. This is rare today, where you see countless products that contain questionable ingredients or those that will not offer any substantial support. That's why it helps to be able to trust the company you're buying from.

Unlike most patch-based products, which are constructed flimsily and are marketed by relative unknowns in the industry, a detox patch at CleansePatch.com appears to have much to offer. Instead of going on a hardcore diet or consuming an unusual supplement, why not let the patch do the work for you? This patch is said to be capable of extracting much of the toxins and metals hampering your system.

Advantra-Z, Hoodia and the rest of the lot

No matter how you cut it, there is a select group of weight loss agents that are way ahead of the pack in terms of near- and long-term promise. Some dietary aids might help out for a few days or a week, but it's the formulas that come through time and time again that are truly worth looking into. Of course, a good product will spare you any adverse side effects.

If you swing by www.Nuphedrine.com you'll find one of the more intriguing weight loss supplements to come to market in recent years. It combines two of the leading natural ingredients in Hoodia, an appetite suppressant, and Advantra-Z, a thermogenic and fat burner. Both ingredients have been shown in studies and in their natural habitat to be both effective and safe.

Supporting health goals with beverages

You might be a fan of drinking those health beverages to support overall health and wellness, but you might not know that the formulas will also include a lot of sugar in addition to nutrients. For instance, Vitamin Water is popular for its diversity in flavors and for all the vitamins and minerals you can get -- but each 16-ounce bottle is said to have the same amount of sugar as a 12-ounce can of Diet Coke.

Fuze Drinks may be viewed as a little bit healthier, with lines such as Slenderize, but I'm not sure that the drinks will help you lose weight and keep it off. That's because the formulas don't include appetite suppressants like Hoodia and fat burners like Advantra-Z. I suppose it can't hurt to consume these beverages in moderation, but a capsule-based supplement might yield more tangible results.

Caffeine-based supplements will cause crashing

I like weight loss supplements that are based on natural ingredients, especially when they are potent without causing any adverse reactions. Just because an ingredient is derived from natural sources does not mean that it will be safe to use over the long run. Make sure to be aware of what ingredients are used to formulate the product.

Cuur is a supplement that is supposed to boost metabolic rate and burn fat, with some even claiming that it will suppress appetite. However, it contains moderate amounts of Caffeine, thanks to Yerba Mate and Green Tea, which are natural sources of Caffeine. A little bit of the stimulant might not be that bad, but too much will lead to jitters and crashing.

Complementing your supplement with a topical cream

You can get a lot out of the best weight loss supplements on the market today, but if you want to really maximize the experience you might want to check out some of the topical creams at the high end of the market as well. Some of the more well-regarded creams are supposed to support weight loss by targeting excess fat and cellulite.

A good topical cream should be potent yet safe to use for the long run, something that will not be possible with the majority of the products on the market right now. A cream called the Miracle Burn Cream is supposed to be one of the superior formulas for burning fat and reducing the appearance of cellulite, according to countless reports.

Supplements based on potent fat burners and appetite suppressants

When you're looking to lose weight and keep it off in the long run, it really does help to take a supplement to support our goals. The formula for a great dietary supplement will typically include an appetite suppressant and a fat burner, such as Hoodia Gordonii and Advantra-Z. But you should make sure the supplement you choose contains authentic sources of these ingredients.

The most promising supplements are said to include the dietary agents mentioned above, which can be found in a formula found at Nuphedrine.com. Hoodia is supposed to be effective because of its ability to reduce cravings and suppress your appetite; Advantra-Z is the only known patented form of Bitter Orange Extract, also known as Citrus Aurantium, available today.

Detoxing with patches, not demanding diet plans

Some of the more popular ways to detox your body these days seems to be to use those foot patches. This is considered much more convenient than going with the conventional diets that require you to go on demanding diet plans. However, it is important to make sure you're using the best patch-based products available.

Some of the more well-regarded foot patches available include the Cleanse Patch, which is supposed to be convenient because you only have to use it for five nights. You simply attach the patch to your feet and go to bed; when you wake p the following morning, you will find all the impurities extracted from your body into the patch.