With loads of fat burners and weight loss supplements on the market it can be tough to work out what's what. The most effective will come from one of 3 product categories:
- Thermogenic metabolism boosters
- Fat mobilising transporters
- Whey protein powders
Let's begin with the mother of fat loss weapons and the one most often used to drop weight fast.
1) Thermogenics
For fastest results the most powerful way to target fat loss with a nutrition supplement is to use a 'Thermogenic Fat Burner'. Thermogenics are formulations of ingredients (usually in capsule form) designed to increase the speed your metabolism functions at. A faster metabolism burns more calories. The more calories you use the more likely your body will access body fat stores to provide the extra calories necessary for this energy. Due to the metabolism stimulation, thermogenic fat burners can also provide a dramatic energy and motivation boost. With more drive to push exercise harder, more calories can be tapped into for burning. Usual recommendations are to use 2 to 3 servings a day on an empty stomach. A good idea when using thermo's is to 'cycle' them (this is when you have consistent 'off' breaks to maintain longer term effectiveness).
2) Fat Transporters
For those who prefer to avoid the intensity and stimulation of thermo's the best alternative is to use 'Fat Transporters' or 'Fat Mobilisers'. The key active ingredient in this category is the amino acid called L Carnitine. There are various forms including L Carnitine Base, L Carnitine Tartrate, and the most popular form Acetyl L Carnitine. Naturally found in your body and the foods you eat L Carnitine is used to transport fats from body fat stores into your muscle cells for use as energy. By supplementing your diet you may increase body reserves of this essential fat moving nutrient and 'turn on' optimum fat burning and weight loss. Added benefits are increased feelings of energy and endurance for exercise, plus improved recovery. The recommended way to use L Carnitine is to take 1 to 2 servings per day. An important point to remember is that protein foods can block Carnitine from working. It's best taken on an empty stomach, away from these foods.
3) Whey Protein
Whey Protein is an excellent weight loss tool. If you know your nutrition stuff you'll be aware that all protein foods are thermogenic. Protein foods boost your metabolism causing your body to burn calories to digest them. By using a Whey Protein shake regularly you can take advantage of this calorie burning effect plus provide important building blocks for lean muscle preservation. There is also another addded benefit: Phenylalanine the amino acid found in Whey. This amino helps keep appetite under control by increasing the peptide Cholecystokinin which promotes feelings of fullness. It's high natural levels of Phenylalanine is one reason bodybuilders and models drink a lot of Whey Protein when dieting. For optimum weight loss benefits 2 to 4 servings per day is the way to go. Remember the 2 most important times to eat protein are at breakfast and post workout. Whey powder is an ideal protein source for these meals.