Fat binders are taking the supplement industry by storm these days. Most people want to find a way that they can lose weight without really having to watch what they eat. Some call it an easy way out, while others may call it a Godsend. So, are fat binders just another money making gimmick from the supplement industry, or do they work? Let’s take a closer look and learn more.
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The Basics of Fat Binders
First, it is important to know what fat binders really are and how they function. Fat binders are indigestible fiber sources that help to bind with the fats that are found in the food that you eat. One of the most common is Chitosan which is found in seafood. Once it binds to the fat in your foods, it makes those fats indigestible as well. This means that you may eat more fat, but that some of it will not be absorbed. The unabsorbed fat will just pass through your digestive system, and then be eliminated with the other waste.
Most fat binders are shown to be able to absorb up to 6 times their weight in fat. That means that you can cut the caloric intake down on your meals quite drastically by taking fat binder supplements – based on the claims made by manufacturers. We all know that manufacturers have a tendency to oversell their products with claims that may not be quite so accurate, so how can you know if they are as effective as they say? You really won’t know how well they will work for you until you try it.
It is also important to note that the results that come with taking fat binders do not come without some pretty rough side effects, including upset stomach, inadequate vitamin absorption, and sometimes even leaky stools. Some people tend to steer clear of these fat binder supplements merely because they are worried about the possibility of nasty side effects.
Along with a few side effects, there are some drug interactions to be aware of. Many of the fat binders out there may interact with certain prescription medications. It is essential to discuss this with your doctor to make sure that you can safely take fat binders along with any of the other medications that you are currently taking. They can also impact the absorption of specific prescription medications and should be taken at a different time than any medications to ensure proper absorption.
How Effective are Fat Binders?
When it comes down to effectiveness, fat binders have been shown to be very effective at doing what they say they are going to do. They bind to fats that are in the food you eat and take them through your body without allowing them to be digested. Sure, it is good news to learn that fat binders really do work.
The problem, however, is that fat binders may not work as quickly as you would like them to. Most consumers who have tried various fat binder or fat blocker supplements have found that they did not see the results they expected to see. This could be in part to the fact that most people these days want to see immediate results. As with anything, you won’t see the effects of it overnight. In fact, it may be a gradual change.
To really see a difference, you would need to commit to taking the adequate dosage for a period of at least six to eight weeks. Dosage will vary, depending on the manufacturer, but typically equates to between 4 and 5 g per day.
Don’t Throw in the Towel on Diet and Exercise Just Yet
Not to sound like your doctor or nutritionist, but substituting fat blockers for diet and exercise is not going to yield great results. It is important to stick to a diet and exercise routine to go alongside the fat binders. This will give you the best results with your weight loss, and will also help you to stay toned as you lose the weight.
While it may be tempting to go out and eat a fatty five-course meal and pop a couple of fat binders, this is not supporting a healthy lifestyle. Losing weight is difficult, but maintaining a healthy lifestyle after you lose the weight can be tricky.
When it all boils down to it, fat binders do work. The only problem is that they may not work as well as you hope that they would.
If you are just looking for a way to indulge now and then without having to worry about packing on the pounds, then fat binders may be a great solution. If you want to indulge daily and take them as a way to counteract your unhealthy eating habits, however, you may be disappointed in the results.
If you are interested in taking fat binders, we recommend this brand as it is both safe and has been proven.
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