Health Guide

Fat Burner Supplements: Science-Backed Ingredients, Metabolism & Safety

Fat Burner Supplements: Science-Backed Ingredients, Metabolism & Safety

💡 What You Need to Know Right Away

  • Fat burner supplements show limited effectiveness compared to diet and exercise alone, with 95% confidence intervals crossing zero in meta-analysis [Evidence: A][1]
  • Common ingredients produce statistically significant but clinically minimal weight loss: chitosan (-1.84 kg), glucomannan (-1.27 kg), CLA (-1.08 kg)—none meeting the ≥2.5 kg clinical threshold [Evidence: A][3]
  • Caffeine intake up to 400 mg/day is safe for healthy adults based on systematic review of 381 studies [Evidence: A][8]
  • Green tea extract carries hepatotoxicity risk at higher doses (140-1000 mg EGCG/day), especially when consumed on an empty stomach [Evidence: B][10]

With the fat burner supplement market projected to reach $12.84 billion by 2033, millions of people are searching for that extra edge in their weight loss journey. You've likely seen the bold claims: "melt fat fast," "boost metabolism," "suppress appetite naturally." But here's what the marketing materials don't tell you—and what you deserve to know before spending your money.

The truth is, the science behind fat burners is more nuanced than supplement companies want you to believe. After analyzing 10 peer-reviewed studies including systematic reviews and meta-analyses, we've uncovered what actually works, what doesn't, and—perhaps most importantly—what could potentially harm you. Whether you're considering fat burners for the first time or questioning whether your current supplement is worth it, this guide gives you the evidence-based answers you need to make an informed decision.

❓ Quick Answers

Do fat burners actually work?

Fat burner supplements show limited effectiveness. A systematic review of 21 studies found that thermogenic supplements were less effective than diet and exercise alone, with 95% confidence intervals crossing zero—indicating no conclusive benefit.[Evidence: A][1] While some ingredients produce statistically significant weight loss, effects are typically below clinically meaningful thresholds.

Are fat burners safe to take?

Fat burner safety varies by ingredient and dose. Caffeine is safe up to 400 mg/day for healthy adults.[Evidence: A][8] However, synephrine (bitter orange) significantly increases blood pressure (+6.37 mmHg systolic).[Evidence: A][7] Green tea extract can cause liver damage at higher doses.[Evidence: B][10] Consult a healthcare provider before use.

What are the side effects of fat burners?

Common side effects include increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, insomnia, jitteriness, and digestive discomfort. Serious risks include hepatotoxicity (liver damage) from green tea extracts at doses of 140-1000 mg EGCG/day.[Evidence: B][10] Cardiovascular effects are documented with stimulant-containing formulas, particularly those with synephrine.

When should I take fat burners?

Most fat burners are taken in the morning, 30-40 minutes before breakfast or exercise. Caffeine-containing products should be avoided within 4-6 hours of bedtime to prevent sleep disruption.[Evidence: A][8] Green tea extracts should be taken with food to reduce hepatotoxicity risk.[Evidence: B][10]

What is the most effective fat burner?

No single fat burner ingredient shows strong effectiveness. L-carnitine at 2,000 mg/day shows optimal dose-response for modest weight loss.[Evidence: A][2] Green tea supplementation reduced body weight by 1.78 kg and BMI by 0.65 kg/m².[Evidence: A][11] However, none meet clinical significance thresholds when compared to diet and exercise.

What ingredients are in fat burners?

Common fat burner ingredients include caffeine, green tea extract (EGCG), capsaicin (cayenne pepper), L-carnitine, conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), synephrine (bitter orange), yohimbine, chromium picolinate, and forskolin. Each has different mechanisms: thermogenesis, appetite suppression, or fat metabolism enhancement. Evidence strength varies significantly by ingredient.

Are fat burners FDA approved?

Fat burner supplements are NOT FDA approved for weight loss. As dietary supplements, they're regulated differently than drugs—manufacturers don't need to prove safety or effectiveness before selling. The FDA can only take action after problems emerge. No thermogenic supplement has received FDA approval as a weight loss treatment.

🔬 How Do Fat Burner Supplements Work?

Think of your metabolism as a furnace. Fat burner supplements claim to stoke that furnace in three main ways: turning up the heat (thermogenesis), cutting off the fuel supply (appetite suppression), or helping burn stored fuel more efficiently (fat oxidation). But how much can these supplements actually turn up the dial?

Thermogenesis: Generating Heat to Burn Calories

Thermogenic ingredients work by activating your body's heat-production systems. Capsaicin from cayenne pepper activates TRPV1 receptors, which triggers a cascade that promotes brown adipose tissue (BAT) thermogenesis.[Evidence: B][5] Brown fat is your body's built-in heater—unlike regular white fat that stores energy, brown fat burns calories to generate warmth.

A meta-analysis of 13 placebo-controlled studies found that capsaicinoids and capsinoids significantly increased resting metabolic rate by 33.99 Kcal/day (95% CI: 15.95-52.03).[Evidence: A][6] To put this in perspective, that's roughly equivalent to burning an extra apple's worth of calories daily—modest, but measurable.

Caffeine operates through a different pathway, stimulating the central nervous system and increasing catecholamine release. This enhances both energy expenditure and fat oxidation. Green tea catechins, particularly EGCG, work synergistically with caffeine to enhance thermogenesis. A dose-response meta-analysis found green tea supplementation reduced body weight by 1.78 kg and BMI by 0.65 kg/m².[Evidence: A][11]

Fat Transport and Oxidation

L-carnitine functions as a molecular shuttle bus, transporting fatty acids into mitochondria where they can be burned for energy. Without adequate carnitine, fat molecules can't efficiently enter the cellular powerhouses where oxidation occurs. A meta-analysis of 37 RCTs with 2,292 participants found L-carnitine significantly decreased body weight and BMI, with dose-response analysis identifying 2,000 mg daily as optimal.[Evidence: A][2]

Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) works differently—it influences enzymes involved in fat storage and breakdown. The largest meta-analysis to date (70 RCTs, 4,159 participants) found CLA significantly reduced body mass, BMI, waist circumference, fat mass, and body fat percentage while increasing fat-free mass.[Evidence: A][9] However, high-quality studies specifically failed to show CLA's body fat-lowering properties, and effects may not reach clinical importance.

The Reality Check

Here's what the mechanisms don't tell you: a systematic review and meta-analysis of 21 studies found that responses induced from weight-loss supplements were less effective than what is obtained from utilizing exercise, or diet and exercise.[Evidence: A][1] The 95% confidence interval crossed zero, indicating no conclusive benefit from adding thermogenic supplements to a weight loss regimen.

A comprehensive systematic review of 67 RCTs examining isolated organic compounds for weight loss concluded there was insufficient evidence to recommend dietary supplements for weight loss.[Evidence: A][3] The weight reductions observed—chitosan (-1.84 kg), glucomannan (-1.27 kg), CLA (-1.08 kg)—were statistically significant but none met the clinical significance threshold of ≥2.5 kg.

📊 Dosage and How to Use

Determining the right dosage for fat burner ingredients requires understanding what clinical research has actually tested. The following table summarizes evidence-based dosing from verified studies:

Ingredient Purpose/Effect Dosage Duration Studied Evidence
Caffeine (healthy adults) Energy, thermogenesis ≤400 mg/day (safe limit) Chronic use [A][8]
Caffeine (pregnant women) Energy, thermogenesis ≤300 mg/day (safe limit) During pregnancy [A][8]
Caffeine (children/adolescents) Not recommended ≤2.5 mg/kg body weight/day Chronic use [A][8]
L-Carnitine Weight loss, fat transport 2,000 mg/day (optimal) Varies by study [A][2]
Green Tea Extract (EGCG) Weight loss, waist circumference ≥800 mg/day for waist reduction <12 weeks [A][11]
Green Tea Extract (safety limit) Hepatotoxicity threshold <800 mg EGCG/day recommended Chronic use [B][10]
Capsaicinoids/Capsinoids RMR increase (33.99 Kcal/day) Capsule formulations preferred Varies; longer duration better [A][6]

Important Dosing Considerations

Green Tea Extract Warning: The USP comprehensive review documented hepatotoxicity associated with EGCG doses of 140-1000 mg/day, with increased risk when consumed on an empty stomach.[Evidence: B][10] To minimize liver risk, always consume green tea extract with food.

Synephrine (Bitter Orange) Caution: Meta-analysis found no evidence that synephrine facilitates weight loss, while significantly increasing systolic blood pressure by 6.37 mmHg and diastolic by 4.33 mmHg.[Evidence: A][7] Those with cardiovascular conditions should avoid this ingredient.

Timing Recommendations: Take caffeine-containing fat burners in the morning or early afternoon to prevent sleep disruption. Allow at least 4-6 hours between your last caffeine dose and bedtime. Green tea extracts should always be taken with meals.

⚠️ Risks, Side Effects, and Warnings

Side Effects by Ingredient

Caffeine-Related Effects: A systematic review of 381 studies confirmed caffeine effects on sleep latency and quality are well-documented.[Evidence: A][8] Additional effects include increased heart rate, jitteriness, anxiety, and digestive upset. Individuals with caffeine sensitivity may experience these effects at lower doses.

Green Tea Extract Hepatotoxicity: The USP comprehensive review documented liver damage cases associated with green tea extracts. Hepatotoxicity was observed across EGCG doses ranging from 140-1000 mg/day. Catechin bioavailability increases significantly when taken on an empty stomach, which paradoxically increases hepatotoxicity risk.[Evidence: B][10] The USP recommends consumption with food and warns against use by those with existing liver conditions.

Cardiovascular Effects: Synephrine-containing products (bitter orange) raise blood pressure significantly. Meta-analysis documented systolic increases of 6.37 mmHg and diastolic increases of 4.33 mmHg, with tendencies to also raise heart rate.[Evidence: A][7] This makes synephrine particularly risky for individuals with hypertension, heart disease, or those taking cardiovascular medications.

Drug Interactions

Fat burner ingredients can interact with various medications. Caffeine may interact with medications metabolized by CYP1A2 enzymes. Green tea extract may affect anticoagulant medications. Synephrine should not be combined with MAO inhibitors or other stimulants. Always inform your healthcare provider of all supplements you're taking, particularly if you use:

  • Blood pressure medications
  • Blood thinners (anticoagulants)
  • Diabetes medications
  • Antidepressants, especially MAO inhibitors
  • Heart medications
  • Other stimulant medications

Contraindications

Absolute contraindications: Existing liver disease (for green tea extracts), uncontrolled hypertension, cardiovascular disease, pregnancy without medical supervision, known allergy to any ingredient.

Relative contraindications: Anxiety disorders, insomnia, gastric ulcers or GERD, taking medications that interact with caffeine or other stimulants, scheduled surgery (stop fat burners at least 2 weeks prior).

Monitoring Recommendations

If you choose to use fat burner supplements despite the limited effectiveness evidence, monitor for adverse reactions. Watch for signs of liver problems (yellowing skin/eyes, dark urine, persistent nausea, abdominal pain) when using green tea extracts. Track your blood pressure if using any stimulant-containing products. Discontinue use and seek medical attention if you experience chest pain, rapid heartbeat, or signs of allergic reaction.

🥗 Practical Ways to Use Fat Burners

How to Use This in Your Daily Life

Scenario 1: General Weight Loss Support

  • Dose: Start with lowest effective dose of chosen ingredient; for L-carnitine, optimal is 2,000 mg/day[2]
  • Duration: Most studies evaluated 8-12 weeks
  • Population: Adults with overweight or obesity (BMI >24.9)[1]
  • Timing: Morning, 30-40 minutes before breakfast
  • What to track: Body weight, waist circumference, energy levels, sleep quality
  • Expected results: Modest at best—chitosan showed -1.84 kg, glucomannan -1.27 kg, CLA -1.08 kg, none meeting ≥2.5 kg clinical threshold[3]

Scenario 2: Metabolism Support with Green Tea

  • Dose: ≥800 mg/day for waist circumference reduction[11]
  • Duration: <12 weeks showed greater weight reduction at doses <500 mg/day[11]
  • Population: Adults with obesity
  • Timing: WITH MEALS (critical for safety—reduces hepatotoxicity risk)[10]
  • What to track: Body weight, BMI, waist circumference; also monitor for liver symptoms
  • Expected results: Body weight decreased by 1.78 kg, BMI decreased by 0.65 kg/m²[11]

Scenario 3: Thermogenic Support with Capsaicinoids

  • Dose: Capsule formulations; specific mg varies by product
  • Duration: Longer duration showed greater benefits[6]
  • Population: Healthy adults
  • Timing: With meals to reduce gastric irritation
  • What to track: Resting metabolic rate (if measurable), energy expenditure
  • Expected results: RMR increase of approximately 33.99 Kcal/day (95% CI: 15.95-52.03)[6]

Practical Integration

Combine any fat burner supplement with diet and exercise—the research consistently shows supplements alone provide minimal benefit.[Evidence: A][1] Store supplements in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Check expiration dates regularly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Taking green tea extract on empty stomach: Increases hepatotoxicity risk significantly[10]. Always take with food.
  • Expecting dramatic results: Studies show effects below clinical significance threshold (≥2.5 kg)[3]. Set realistic expectations.
  • Relying on supplements without lifestyle changes: Fat burners were less effective than diet and exercise alone[1]. Supplements should complement, not replace, healthy habits.
  • Exceeding caffeine limits: Stay within 400 mg/day for healthy adults[8]. Account for caffeine from all sources (coffee, tea, energy drinks, supplements).
  • Using synephrine products: No evidence of weight loss benefit, but documented blood pressure increases[7]. Risk outweighs potential benefit.

⚖️ Fat Burners vs. Diet and Exercise

The most important comparison isn't between different fat burners—it's between fat burners and the fundamentals of weight loss. The research is clear on this point.

Approach Effectiveness Safety Cost Evidence
Diet + Exercise High - clinically significant weight loss achievable High - minimal risks when done appropriately Low to moderate [A][1]
Diet + Exercise + Fat Burner Similar to diet + exercise alone; 95% CI crossed zero Moderate - adds supplement-related risks Higher [A][1]
Fat Burner Alone Low - below clinical significance threshold (<2.5 kg) Variable - depends on ingredients Moderate [A][3]

A systematic review and meta-analysis of 21 studies (participants with BMI >24.9, intervention duration >8 weeks) found that "responses induced from weight-loss supplements were less effective than what is obtained from utilizing exercise, or diet and exercise."[Evidence: A][1] The 95% confidence interval crossed zero, meaning the additional benefit from thermogenic supplements couldn't be statistically confirmed.

Fat Burners vs. Synephrine (Bitter Orange)

Some fat burners contain synephrine from bitter orange (Citrus aurantium). A systematic review and meta-analysis specifically examining synephrine found no evidence it facilitates weight loss, with non-significant effects after prolonged treatment.[Evidence: A][7] Meanwhile, it significantly increased systolic blood pressure by 6.37 mmHg and diastolic by 4.33 mmHg, with no effect on body composition. This represents a clear case where potential harms outweigh unproven benefits.

The Bottom Line on Comparisons

Money and effort spent on fat burner supplements would be better invested in quality whole foods and exercise equipment or gym memberships. The evidence consistently shows diet and exercise produce meaningful results, while fat burners add cost and risk without proportional benefit.

What The Evidence Shows (And Doesn't Show)

What Research Suggests

  • Fat burner supplements show limited effectiveness compared to diet and exercise alone—a systematic review of 21 studies found thermogenic supplements were less effective, with 95% confidence intervals crossing zero (indicating no conclusive benefit)[1]
  • Individual ingredients produce statistically significant but clinically modest effects: chitosan (-1.84 kg), glucomannan (-1.27 kg), CLA (-1.08 kg)—none meeting the ≥2.5 kg clinical significance threshold[3]
  • Green tea supplementation reduces body weight by 1.78 kg and BMI by 0.65 kg/m², with waist circumference reductions significant at doses ≥800 mg/day[11]
  • L-carnitine at 2,000 mg/day shows optimal dose-response for modest weight loss across 37 RCTs with 2,292 participants[2]
  • Capsaicinoids increase resting metabolic rate by 33.99 Kcal/day (95% CI: 15.95-52.03) based on 13 placebo-controlled studies[6]

What's NOT Yet Proven

  • Clinical significance of weight loss from fat burners—no ingredient reviewed met the ≥2.5 kg threshold considered clinically meaningful
  • Long-term safety beyond 8-12 weeks—most studies in the evidence base used intervention durations of 8-12 weeks
  • Optimal dosing protocols for many ingredients—dose-response relationships only established for L-carnitine (2,000 mg/day optimal) and green tea (varying effects by dose range)
  • Efficacy in specific populations—pregnancy/lactation safety data remains a gap with no 2015+ systematic reviews found
  • Whether supplement combinations are more effective—most studies examined single ingredients
  • CLA's body fat-lowering properties—while statistically significant effects observed in pooled analysis, high-quality studies specifically failed to show fat-lowering benefit[9]

Where Caution Is Needed

  • Green tea extract carries hepatotoxicity risk at doses of 140-1000 mg EGCG/day, with increased risk on empty stomach—USP issued cautionary labeling requirements[10]
  • Synephrine (bitter orange) shows NO evidence of weight loss benefit but significantly increases blood pressure (+6.37/+4.33 mmHg)[7]
  • Caffeine effects on sleep are well-documented and doses above 400 mg/day may cause adverse effects in healthy adults[8]
  • Quality varies significantly—supplements are not FDA approved for weight loss, and manufacturers don't need to prove safety or effectiveness before selling
  • Individual response varies—genetic factors, baseline metabolic rate, and health status all influence outcomes

Should YOU Try This?

Best suited for: Adults with overweight/obesity (BMI >24.9) who are ALREADY following a structured diet and exercise program and want modest additional support. Those who understand the limitations and have realistic expectations about outcomes.

Not recommended for: Those with liver disease (avoid green tea extracts), cardiovascular conditions or hypertension (avoid synephrine and high-caffeine products), pregnant or breastfeeding women without medical supervision (caffeine limited to ≤300 mg/day[8]), those seeking dramatic weight loss results, anyone expecting supplements to replace diet and exercise.

Realistic timeline: Studies evaluated 8-12 week interventions. Expect modest effects developing over weeks to months of consistent use. Green tea showed greater weight reduction at doses <500 mg/day with 12 weeks duration.[11]

When to consult a professional: Before starting any fat burner supplement—especially if you have existing health conditions, take medications (particularly for blood pressure, blood thinning, diabetes, or psychiatric conditions), are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a history of liver problems. Also consult immediately if you experience signs of liver problems (jaundice, dark urine, abdominal pain), rapid heartbeat, or allergic reactions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for fat burners to work?

Timeline varies by individual and has not been definitively established in controlled studies. Most clinical trials evaluating fat burner ingredients lasted 8-12 weeks. Green tea studies showed body weight reduction of 1.78 kg at doses <500 mg/day with 12 weeks duration. However, these effects are modest and below clinical significance thresholds. Capsaicinoid benefits on metabolic rate were observed with longer duration supplementation. Expect weeks to months of consistent use before noticing any measurable change, and set realistic expectations—effects will be subtle at best.

Can you take fat burners on an empty stomach?

This depends entirely on the ingredient. For green tea extract (EGCG), taking on an empty stomach is NOT recommended—the USP comprehensive review documented that catechin bioavailability increases when consumed without food, which paradoxically increases hepatotoxicity risk. The USP recommends consumption with food to reduce liver damage risk. For caffeine-only products, empty stomach consumption may increase absorption but can cause gastric discomfort. Capsaicinoids may cause stomach irritation without food. The safest general recommendation is to take fat burners with meals.

Do fat burners work without exercise?

Fat burners have minimal effectiveness without exercise. The systematic review of 21 studies explicitly found that thermogenic supplements were less effective than diet and exercise alone. A comprehensive analysis of 67 RCTs on isolated organic compounds concluded there was insufficient evidence to recommend supplements for weight loss. The weight reductions observed without lifestyle modification—chitosan (-1.84 kg), glucomannan (-1.27 kg), CLA (-1.08 kg)—none met the clinical significance threshold of ≥2.5 kg. Without a caloric deficit created by diet modification or exercise, fat burners provide negligible results.

Are thermogenic fat burners safe?

Safety varies by specific thermogenic ingredient and dose. Caffeine up to 400 mg/day is established as safe for healthy adults based on a systematic review of 381 studies. Capsaicinoids showed a favorable safety profile in 13 placebo-controlled studies. However, synephrine significantly increases blood pressure (+6.37 mmHg systolic, +4.33 mmHg diastolic) without proven weight loss benefit. Green tea extracts carry hepatotoxicity risk at doses of 140-1000 mg EGCG/day. Thermogenic safety depends on ingredient selection, proper dosing, and individual health status.

Should you take fat burners in the morning or night?

Morning or early afternoon is strongly preferred for caffeine-containing fat burners. The systematic review of caffeine effects documented impacts on sleep latency and quality. Allow at least 4-6 hours between your last caffeine dose and bedtime. Non-stimulant fat burners (L-carnitine, CLA) have more flexibility in timing, though many people prefer consistent morning dosing. Green tea extract should be taken with meals (breakfast or lunch) rather than timing relative to morning/night, due to the hepatotoxicity concerns with empty-stomach consumption.

Can fat burners cause liver damage?

Yes—specifically green tea extract (EGCG) is associated with hepatotoxicity. The USP comprehensive review documented liver damage cases with EGCG doses ranging from 140-1000 mg/day. Risk factors include taking green tea extract on an empty stomach (which increases catechin bioavailability and paradoxically increases toxicity risk), existing liver conditions, and higher doses. The USP issued cautionary labeling requirements and recommends consumption with food. Those with liver disease should avoid green tea extract supplements entirely. Other fat burner ingredients have not shown the same hepatotoxicity concerns in reviewed studies.

Do natural fat burners work better than supplements?

The distinction between 'natural' and 'supplement' is often marketing-driven rather than scientifically meaningful—most fat burner supplements contain natural compounds (caffeine, capsaicin, green tea catechins). The relevant question is effectiveness, and the evidence shows modest effects regardless of source. Green tea catechins reduced body weight by 1.78 kg whether from tea beverage or supplement. Capsaicin from whole cayenne peppers and capsaicinoid supplements both showed RMR increases. Whole food sources may offer additional nutritional benefits and lower risk of concentrated dose toxicity.

How much weight can you lose with fat burners?

Based on meta-analyses, expect minimal weight loss from fat burners alone. Quantified effects from the 67-RCT systematic review: chitosan produced -1.84 kg, glucomannan -1.27 kg, and CLA -1.08 kg weight reduction. None of these met the clinical significance threshold of ≥2.5 kg. Green tea supplementation showed body weight reduction of 1.78 kg. L-carnitine at optimal doses (2,000 mg/day) produced modest weight loss effects. For comparison, diet and exercise interventions routinely achieve clinically significant weight loss exceeding these supplement effects.

Our Accuracy Commitment and Editorial Principles

At Biochron, we take health information seriously. Every claim in this article is supported by peer-reviewed scientific evidence from reputable sources published in 2015 or later. We use a rigorous evidence-grading system to help you understand the strength of research behind each statement:


  • [Evidence: A] = Systematic review or meta-analysis (strongest evidence)
  • [Evidence: B] = Randomized controlled trial (RCT)
  • [Evidence: C] = Cohort or case-control study
  • [Evidence: D] = Expert opinion or clinical guideline

Our editorial team follows strict guidelines: we never exaggerate health claims, we clearly distinguish between correlation and causation, we update content regularly as new research emerges, and we transparently note when evidence is limited or conflicting. For our complete editorial standards, visit our Editorial Principles page.


This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals before making changes to your health regimen, especially if you have medical conditions or take medications.

References

  1. 1 . Comparing effectiveness of fat burners and thermogenic supplements to diet and exercise for weight loss and cardiometabolic health: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Clark JE, Welch S. Nutrition and Health, 2021; 27(4):445-459. PubMed | DOI [Evidence: A]
  2. 2 . Effects of l-carnitine supplementation on weight loss and body composition: A systematic review and meta-analysis of 37 randomized controlled clinical trials with dose-response analysis. Talenezhad N, et al. Clinical Nutrition ESPEN, 2020; 37:9-23. PubMed | DOI [Evidence: A]
  3. 3 . Efficacy of dietary supplements containing isolated organic compounds for weight loss: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised placebo-controlled trials. Bessell E, et al. International Journal of Obesity, 2021; 45(8):1631-1643. PubMed | DOI [Evidence: A]
  4. 4 . Capsaicin and Related Food Ingredients Reducing Body Fat Through the Activation of TRP and Brown Fat Thermogenesis. Saito M. Advances in Food and Nutrition Research, 2015; 76:1-28. PubMed | DOI [Evidence: B]
  5. 5 . The effect of Capsaicinoids or Capsinoids in red pepper on thermogenesis in healthy adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Irandoost P, et al. Phytotherapy Research, 2021; 35(3):1358-1377. PubMed | DOI [Evidence: A]
  6. 6 . The Safety and Efficacy of Citrus aurantium (Bitter Orange) Extracts and p-Synephrine: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Koncz D, et al. Nutrients, 2022; 14(19):4019. PubMed | DOI [Evidence: A]
  7. 7 . Systematic review of the potential adverse effects of caffeine consumption in healthy adults, pregnant women, adolescents, and children. Wikoff D, et al. Food and Chemical Toxicology, 2017; 109(Pt 1):585-648. PubMed | DOI [Evidence: A]
  8. 8 . The effects of conjugated linoleic acid supplementation on anthropometrics and body composition indices in adults: a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis. Asbaghi O, et al. British Journal of Nutrition, 2024; 131(3):406-428. PubMed | DOI [Evidence: A]
  9. 9 . United States Pharmacopeia (USP) comprehensive review of the hepatotoxicity of green tea extracts. Oketch-Rabah HA, et al. Toxicology Reports, 2020; 7:386-402. PubMed | DOI [Evidence: B]
  10. 10 . The effect of green tea supplementation on obesity: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Lin Y, et al. Phytotherapy Research, 2020; 34(10):2459-2470. PubMed | DOI [Evidence: A]

Medical Disclaimer


This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician. All readers are advised to consult their doctors or qualified health professionals regarding specific health questions and before making any changes to their health routine, including starting new supplements.

Neither Biochron nor the author takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person reading or following the information in this educational content. All readers, especially those taking prescription medications, should consult their physicians before beginning any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle program.

If you have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.