Supplements against obesity are ineffective, research claims

Anti-obesity supplements are virtually ineffective, according to an analysis of more than 150 studies on the use of dietary supplements for obesity, published in the journal Obesity.

The market for bioactive additives (BAA) generates billions of dollars annually. However, these products are not subject to the same quality and efficacy tests as conventional medicines. They often contain hidden hazardous ingredients, which, among other things, can interact with other medications.

In a new study, scientists conducted a meta-analysis of 315 studies on the use of bioactive supplements and acupuncture for obesity. It turned out that the vast majority of these studies are of poor quality: for example, small in size and with a high risk of error. Scientists were able to find only 52 studies that allowed judging the effectiveness of certain dietary supplements.

Results from only 16 studies indicated at least a small effect of these funds. These included green tea, linolenic acid, and caffeine supplements. Their effect was modest: people taking these dietary supplements lost from 0.3 to 4.9 kilograms.

The meta-analysis did not find effective alternative methods for losing weight, while evidence-based medicine today has a number of more effective methods: pharmacotherapy and bariatric surgery help to lose 5-35% of body weight. However, the arsenal of tools for tackling obesity remains modest.