There are many different types of weight loss powder available to the consumer. Each type of powder provides a different weight loss function. Some are designed to replace meals, others provide protein to build muscle and burn calories, and still others are intended to increase metabolism. For effective weight loss, health experts recommend that these powders be paired with a healthy lifestyle, including plenty of exercise and healthy eating.
Meal replacement weight loss powder contains all the carbohydrates, protein and nutrients found in a normal meal. There are two types of meal replacement products including those for weight loss, and those to gain weight. Weight loss powders will be low in fat and calories. Some were developed specifically for women or by men, while others can be used by both.
A type of weight loss powder that adds additional protein to a diet is called protein powder. Protein is needed to build muscle in the body, which is important to the fat burning process. These products can be added to many foods, such as smoothies, yogurt or even oatmeal. Protein has also been found to aid dieters as it stays in the digestive tract longer and dieters will tend to feel fuller for longer periods of time.
Supplement powders will contain high concentrations of nutrients that have been found to aid weight loss. At times, a person cannot get enough of these beneficial nutrients from food. Supplements concentrate all the active components of the food into a powder form. The majority of these supplements are made of compounds from vegetables and fruits.
Many fitness powders will contain a large amount of essential amino acids for weight loss, such as L-Carnitine and L-Phenylalanine. L-Carnitine is important as it transfers fat stored in cells to be burned. L-Phenylalanine is used as a signal to the brain when the stomach is full. This amino acid works as an appetite suppressant.
Some weight loss powder is thermogenic. This refers to the ability to raise the body’s internal temperature in an effort to increase metabolism. With a raised metabolism, more calories and fat can be burned. There are side effects to taking thermogenic products, and users tend to build a tolerance to them, decreasing their efficacy over time.
As with any diet, weight loss powder has been found to be most effective when paired with a healthy diet and exercise. These powders do not magically melt away fat. They are thought, however, to help make the most of weight loss when used as part of the weight loss program.