Does Hydroxycut Work?

Hydroxycut, the nutritional supplement, meant for weight loss, had been a topic of fierce debate, for the last few years. Last year, it was the most popular weight loss supplement in the U.S. Approximately 1 million units were sold. It was considered as no. 1 weight loss product in the U.S. but the manufacturers had to face a lot of controversies.

Hydroxycut for Weight Loss

Hydroxycut was advertised as a dietary supplement which has the capacity to increase the rate of metabolism and reduce hunger cravings, thus helping to achieve the desired weight loss. In fact, any supplement designed for weight loss, should fulfill the above criterion. But according to the product reviews and study reports, hydroxycut's efficacy was doubtful and they said that researches could not prove the efficacy of the product and that the mechanism through which the supplement may operate remains unclear.

Hydroxycut helps in losing weight and that is why it has gained popularity. Garcinia cambogia, gymnema sylvestre, chromium polynicotinate, caffeine, and green tea are its primary ingredients. The new hydroxycut formula doe not include ephedra. It is now available in the following forms: Hydroxycut, Hydroxycut 24 (includes regular Hydroxycut for daytime and caffeine-free for evening), Hydroxycut Hardcore (for bodybuilders or sportspersons), Caffeine Free Hydroxycut (specially designed for caffeine-sensitive people) and Hydroxycut Max (for female fitness competitors or sportswomen).

The simple answer to the questions, whether the supplement works for men and whether it works for women is "yes" but one cannot overlook the medical side effects of the supplement. People also ask, 'how fast does hydroxycut work' and some are eager to know 'does it work without exercise'. It may sound harsh but I just want to clearly state here that, there are no shortcuts and there is no such magic potion in this world which can help you lose weight without exercise and balanced diet. Manufacturers claims also reveal the same fact as they themselves mention that a consumer will lose weight five times faster if he/she performs regular exercise and follows a healthy diet plan. If you don't perform exercises and don't follow a balanced diet, you will lose weight very slowly and you may have to face more severe side effects, or you may gain weight afterwards quickly.

Side Effects of Hydroxycut

• Headaches on the first few days of consumption
• High blood pressure
• Restlessness
• Side effects of caffeine, for example, insomnia
• Nervousness
• Nose bleeding
• Excessive sweating and dizziness
• Erectile dysfunction
• Stomach problems
• Stomach ache
• Liver problems like damage to liver, liver failure, jaundice, etc.

Hydroxycut Facts

In March 2003, a lawsuit was filed against hydroxycut's manufacturer stating that the product was not "clinically proven" as a "fat-burner", as it was claimed by the manufacturer.

In May 2009, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) had to issue a clear warning after some hydroxycut products were linked to liver damage, rhabdomyolysis (rapid breakdown of skeletal muscle) and at least one death. It was brought to notice that the serious health risks of hydroxycut containing ephedra were not clearly described while marketing and labeling the product. Moreover, it was also suspected that the 'before' and 'after' photographs were deceptive and the woman in the photo was actually pregnant in the 'before' photo. The manufacturer had to recall the products.

Now, a new formula of hydroxycut is introduced. According to a study report, researchers have found 17 cases of liver damages in people using hydroxycut. This study report has not yet been published in any medical literature. But according to the known sources, nine of the cases had been reported to the FDA, while eight are being examined by the authors of the study reports themselves. According to researchers, the likelihood that this weight loss supplement has caused liver damage in those eight cases, is more than 95%. The product has worked for some, but at the same time it did not work for others. So, the results are confusing.

I would suggest that, you should consult your physician before opting for any weight loss product. Also, read the product reviews carefully. Actually, regular exercise and eating low calorie nutritious food help you lose weight without any side effects. You should select a healthy way of losing weight, so that you will be able to enjoy a healthy and active life.