Herbal remedies for weight loss don't get rid of excess weight

Researchers from Australia conducted a meta-analysis (combined in one large study, the results of several scientific papers) and found that herbal remedies for weight loss virtually no help to get rid of extra pounds. Experts came to the conclusion that these drugs are a waste of money.

a Group of scientists from the University of Sydney have carefully studied the results of over 50 studies that have tested the effectiveness of herbal medications in weight reduction. The work was carried out over the last 20 years.

Experts have focused on the study of works in which the tested drugs, consisting of a single plant or combinations of several herbs. The analysis did not include weight loss products, which consisted of vegetable oil or protein supplements.

explains senior author of the recent work Dr. Nick fuller (Nick Fuller), these supplements can get on the shelves of pharmacies and supermarkets without data on clinical studies, what can be said about pharmaceutical drugs. And therein lies the main problem of such products.

the Research team found that compared with placebo proven tools helped to lose at least 2.5 pounds of weight that is not clinically important.

“There is insufficient data to recommend any of the drugs based on plants for weight loss. Moreover, in many works has not been sufficiently good methods of research or reporting. Although most of the additives seem to be safe for short-term consumption, they are costly and do not help you lose weight, which would be clinically significant,” adds fuller.

Explain what is meant under the clinically significant characteristics of changes in patient status, laboratory parameters (related or not related to taking study drug), which indicates their importance for decision-making includetionary further management of the patient. Statistically significant changes do not always have clinical significance.

In an interview with ABC News Australia, senior author of the study expressed the view that these funds are a waste of money.

Experts have also identified four plants that are often used in weight-loss drugs: Camellia sinensis (Camellia sinensis), Garcinia cambogia (Garcinia cambogia extract), kidney beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) and Chinese ephedra (Ephedra sinica).

most Often in the work tested the effect of Camellia sinensis. Its ability to influence the process of losing weight was discussed in 12 papers. In the framework of meta-analysis experts the Green continent not found any advantages of this component during weight loss compared to placebo.

the Garcinia cambogia was in second place in popularity, it was studied in 11 works. Experts have found methodological errors and revealed a high risk of bias 10 studies from 11. Despite this, the scientists found that this plant, though only slightly, but affect weight loss.

overall, the researchers note that a number of the studied tools do help to reduce weight compared to placebo, but this effect is so small that it can not be considered clinically significant. Thus, the scientists conclude, a person should not expect to get rid of extra kilos with the help of these drugs.

Scientific article on the results of a study published in Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism.

By the way, experts have also previously found that a DNA test will not help eager to choose the best diet for weight loss.

in addition, the authors of the project “Conduct.Science” (nauka.vesti.ru) wrote that trendy gluten-free diets may do more harm than good. We talked about the fact that the Western type of diet changes the genes and hyperactivity immune system.

Text: News.Science