The 8 Best Supplements for Weight Loss of 2024

While not a replacement for a healthy diet and regular exercise, weight loss supplements can work alongside the best weight loss programs to safely and sustainably help you reach your ideal body weight. “Sustainable weight loss requires a holistic approach that often entails several lifestyle changes,” says Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, MS, RDN, LD, a registered dietitian nutritionist who assisted BarBend with this guide. “While dietary supplements can support your efforts, nothing takes the place of a well-balanced diet, regular physical activity, and adequate sleep.”

From a probiotic to a multivitamin to a lean protein powder that can help you maintain muscle during a calorie deficit, there are plenty of safe, healthy supplements that can aid you in your weight loss journey. “There’s no one right supplement for weight loss — since people go about losing weight in different ways, a variety of supplements can help folks lose the last few stubborn pounds,” adds Bourgeois. “But ultimately, any supplement that you choose to help with weight loss should be cost-effective, backed by scientific evidence, and easy to incorporate into a daily routine.” Here are our picks for the best supplements for weight loss. 

The 8 Best Supplements for Weight Loss of 2024

• Best Multivitamin for Weight Loss: Onnit Total Human
• Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss: XWERKS Grow
• Best Pre-Workout for Weight Loss: Transparent Labs LEAN
• Best Greens Powder for Weight Loss: KOS Show Me the Greens Powder
• Best Carnitine for Weight Loss: Momentous Acetyl-L Carnitine
• Best Probiotic for Weight Loss: Ritual Synbiotic
• Best Vitamin D for Weight Loss: Lifeforce Vitamin D+K
• Best Fish Oil for Weight Loss: Legion Triton Fish Oil

Editor’s note: The content on BarBend is meant to be informative in nature, but it should not be taken as medical advice. The opinions and articles on this site are not intended for the diagnosis, prevention, and/or treatment of health problems. It’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before beginning a new fitness, nutritional, and/or supplement routine.

How We Tested and Chose The Best Supplements for Weight Loss

BarBend’s team of fitness professionals includes certified personal trainers, nutrition coaches, and fitness fanatics. In addition to testing nearly every type of fitness equipment on the market, we’ve also dipped scoops into more than 100 of the best protein powders, more than 70 of the best pre-workout supplements, and dozens upon dozens of additional supplements, from multivitamins to probiotics. Using our supplement testing methodology, we rated each product on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) in a variety of categories, including the efficacy of its formulation, the side effects we experienced, and its overall value. 

We drew upon this knowledge and consulted with registered dietitian nutritionist Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, MS, RDN, LD when curating this list of the best supplements for weight loss. None of the products on our list were formulated as weight loss supplements, nor are they marketed as such. Rather, these products work to fill nutritional gaps, provide health benefits, and attend to nutrient deficiencies that may have arisen due to a calorie deficit. Here are a few of the key factors we considered when assembling this list. 

Safety

Just because a product is on a shelf or an online store doesn’t make it safe for consumption. According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), they will not approve “any dietary supplements for safety and effectiveness or their labeling before they are sold to the public.” They even admit that, “in many cases, companies can produce and sell dietary supplements without even notifying the FDA.” (1) 

This means it’s on manufacturers to ensure that their supplements are safe and accurately labeled, and, sadly, many products make it to market that can actively harm users. Unfortunately, research has shown that many weight loss supplements are unlikely to contribute to meaningful weight loss and may cause an array of adverse side effects. While some negative effects may be limited to mild gastrointestinal discomfort, some are more extreme and may include liver or kidney failure. (2) 

While the FDA has removed some of these questionable products from the market, more have popped up in their place. A 2021 study found that, in an analysis of 110 different supplements, more than 60 percent made unsubstantiated claims about reducing weight, BMI, and body fat. (3) 

“It’s important to remember that there is no magic pill for weight loss,” says Bourgeois. “I recommend avoiding supplements that boast exaggerated claims or promise a quick fix.”

As such, you’ll want to beware of diet pills, appetite suppressants, fat burners, or any product that promises quick weight loss — even if it’s throwing around fancy words like “thermogenesis.” We didn’t include any of the above product types on this list, opting instead for supplements that deliver concentrated doses of key nutrients, work to promote gut health and help build muscle. Whenever possible, we chose products that have been third-party tested to certify the validity and efficacy of the ingredients and dosages on its label. 

Energy

Studies have shown that safe, sustainable, and effective weight loss is a slow and steady process. (4) It requires a calorie deficit, whether it’s through nutrition or exercise, and often a willingness to confront the unhealthy habits that contributed to one’s weight gain. 

It can be draining in the early going, which is why we sought to highlight products with vitamins, minerals, and nootropics that research has shown can help increase energy levels, alleviate fatigue, and promote better sleep. Pairing these nutrients with a healthy diet can make it easier to work in a gym session or cook up a nutritional meal after a long day at the office. Furthermore, sleep health has been linked to weight management. (5)

Form

User-friendliness is a crucial aspect to consider when choosing weight loss supplements. After all, if you aren’t consistent with a supplement because it’s a pain to mix or you hate taking pills, it’s not going to do you any good. In this light, we tried to include a variety of supplement forms so that there would be something for everyone. 

[Related: Best Supplement Stacks]

Supplements are available in pre-measured capsules, which simplify consumption, especially for individuals with busy schedules. We also have plenty of powdered options for people who like to stack supplements or live and die by the shaker bottle. 

Third-Party Testing

Since the FDA doesn’t approve weight loss supplements, some companies work to build trust with consumers by subjecting their products (or their facilities) to third-party testing. The tests conducted by these organizations can confirm the veracity of a product’s listed ingredients and dosages and whether or not it contains any banned substances. When making this list, we sought to prioritize products with a seal of approval from third-party organizations. 

Price

Prices can vary widely depending on supplement type. A simple vitamin supplement will often cost a lot less per serving than, say, a pre-workout because it doesn’t contain nearly as many active ingredients. We tried to pick the best supplements in each category by choosing the ones that offered a fair price for their respective benefits. 

Best Multivitamin for Weight Loss: Onnit Total Human

“A multivitamin can support weight management efforts in more ways than one, and Onnit Total Human has pretty much everything you need in one place,” explains Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, MS, RDN, LD. “It contains vitamins and minerals that support energy production (hello, powerful workouts), better sleep (decreased oxidative stress), and improved metabolism (getting that calorie burn on).” Simply put, more energy supports an active lifestyle, while better sleep health has been shown to correspond with weight and fat loss. (5)

Total Human’s daily servings come in two separate packs — one for the morning and one for the evening. Along with nootropics, strontium, boron, antioxidants, and other nutrients, the day pack is heavy on B vitamins, which studies have found to be essential in alleviating fatigue and cognitive dysfunction (6). 

[Related: What Men Should Look For in a Multivitamin]

The night pack, meanwhile, delivers healthy doses of magnesium, vitamin C, and zinc, as well as Valerian root, which research has shown can improve sleep quality and aid with symptoms of anxiety and depression. (7)

“The blend of vitamins and minerals can support weight loss by ensuring you meet your daily nutrient needs to keep your systems running at optimal levels,” says Bourgeois, who scored Total Human a 4.5 out of 5 for its “impressive formula.” There’s a reason we named it one of the best multivitamins. 

The half point, Bourgeois notes, was deducted due to some of the dosages being hidden behind proprietary blends. “Also,” she continues, “it doesn’t take individualized needs into account. Men and women have different nutrient needs that vary based on many factors.”

Our tester, a USA Weightlifting coach, was also a fan of Total Human. “I’ve been taking these for around 20 days, and I’ve seen results from the daytime pills, specifically, with a lot less brain fog and an altogether clearer head,” they said. “As for the night pills, well, they’ve given me some weird dreams, but I’ve slept through the night every time I’ve taken them.”

They did, however, rate their swallowability a 3 out of 5, noting the sheer number of pills you need to consume. Bourgeois also pointed this out: “Onnit Total Human does a good job of covering your bases with all the vitamins and minerals it provides, but the number of capsules you have to take — WOW. Between the day and night packs, you’re taking 16 capsules daily.”

Read our full Onnit Total Human Review.

Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss: XWERKS Grow

“Research continues to point to high-protein intake as a sustainable weight management method,” says Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, MS, RDN, LD. “It helps increase energy expenditure, promote satiety between meals, and decrease lean muscle loss. (8) XWERKS Grow, a super lean protein powder, can be an asset to a well-balanced high-protein diet.” 

How lean is Grow’s formulation? Each serving pairs up to 25 grams of protein and 110 calories with between 1 and 3 grams of carbohydrates and between 0 and 2 grams of fat, meaning it allows you to increase your protein intake without skewing your other macros. It’s also soy- and gluten-free, and free of any artificial sweeteners, flavorings, or colorings. 

It also packs in loads of micronutrients — iron, calcium, and vitamins A, C, and D — and 6 grams of BCAAs, which studies show can promote muscle growth and assist with post-exercise recovery. (9) 

[Related: Best Protein Powders for Weight Loss]

“When it comes to weight loss, I like to prioritize adding foods that support weight management rather than restriction,” says Bourgeois. “Research continues to highlight high-protein diets for weight loss and I think XWERKS Grow can be a great way to boost overall protein intake without excessive calories. Plus, I love that you get 6 g of BCAAs to support muscle growth to help with lean body composition.” Overall, she rated its formulation a 4.5 out of 5. 

Better yet, we think Grow goes down smoothly. Our tester rated both its taste and solubility a 5 out of 5. “I tried the chocolate flavor and it was kind of like drinking a protein Yoo-hoo,” they said. “I’m surprised at how smooth it is. And mixing isn’t really an issue at all — I barely needed a blender ball.” It would be nice to have more than four flavors to choose from, though. 

They did, however, rate it a 3.5 out of 5 in terms of value, noting that its per-serving cost of $1.96 makes it one of the pricier protein powders on the market. Bourgeois agrees, noting that XWERKs sources its protein from grass-fed cows, which contributes to its higher-than-average cost. 

“If convenience is your M.O., it might be worth the cost,” she says. “However, as a dietitian, I like to promote whole foods when possible and there are definitely cheaper ways to get 25 grams of protein in.”

Read our full XWERKS Grow Review.

Best Pre-Workout for Weight Loss: Transparent Labs LEAN

“Physical activity is a major factor in sustainable weight loss, and Transparent Labs LEAN can put a pep in your step before hitting the gym,” says Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, MS, RDN, LD. Its formulation pairs common pre-workout ingredients — citrulline malate, beta-alanine, betaine, and a hearty dose of caffeine — with acetyl-l-carnitine, chromium picolinate, and zinc, a combo that can potentially support thyroid function and encourage carb and fat metabolism. (10)(11)(12)(13)

Bourgeois was impressed, specifically, by LEAN’s 6 grams of citrulline malate, a nitric oxide enhancer. “Improved blood flow can help you make the most of your workouts, supporting weight loss efforts. Plus, citrulline has been linked to improved physical function and muscle strength, and 6 grams is a clinically-based dose.” (14)

But that’s not all. “I’m also a fan of its vitamin and mineral profile,” adds Bourgeois. “You’re getting a hefty dose of zinc, copper, selenium, and iodine with every scoop. Plus, it’s third-party tested and Informed-Choice certified.”

[Related: Best Pre-Workout Supplements]

Our tester, an Olympic weightlifter and BarBend editorial member Kate Meier, incorporated LEAN into three or four workouts a week — mainly focusing on Olympic lifting and strength training — for three weeks. “Previously, I was using Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pre-Workout, but I would say the energy boost and focus I’ve gotten from LEAN has been more noticeable,” they said. 

They rated their workout experience a 4 out of 5, adding that they didn’t experience any tingles or side effects, but that the caffeine dose left them feeling “a bit jittery.”

Bourgeois also noted the caffeine content. “Each scoop contains 180 milligrams of caffeine, which is around the same amount as two cups of coffee. Efforts to lose weight should not come with unwanted side effects, so if you’re sensitive to caffeine, you might search for a different pre-workout.”

Overall, she rated the formulation a 4 out of 5, noting that, while she loves its citrulline dose, its 2 grams of beta-alanine and 1.5 grams of betaine are below the typical recommended doses of 3.2 grams and 2.5 grams, respectively. (15)(16)

Read our full Transparent Labs LEAN Review.

Best Greens Powder for Weight Loss: KOS Show Me the Greens

Greens powders can be an excellent way to fill gaps in your nutrition, but if you’re trying to lose weight, make sure you’re taking one with a low-calorie count. Show Me the Greens, a plant-based greens powder with all-natural ingredients, fits the bill. Its blend of probiotics and organic superfoods like spirulina and chlorella contains just 30 calories and 1 gram of sugar per serving. Our tester rated its formulation a 4 out of 5.

Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, MS, RDN, LD, particularly likes Show Me the Greens for how it can support your gut health. “The GI microbiome may be a major factor affecting energy balance and metabolism, ultimately contributing to weight management efforts,” she says. “Show Me the Greens Powder aims to support a healthy gut.”That support comes in the form of soluble (and insoluble) fiber, mint, apple, and acacia gum, all of which work to bolster the digestive process and enhance nutrient absorption, an appealing benefit for those in a calorie deficit. (18)(19)(20)(21)

“With ingredients like spirulina, chlorella, and acacia gum, the supplement can help support immune and gut health,” adds Bourgeois. “And since we know that a healthy gut supports overall health and weight management, this product is intriguing.” (17)

Unfortunately, says Bourgeois, many of this powder’s ingredients are part of proprietary blends. “I’m usually pretty hesitant with products that contain proprietary blends because I like to know exactly what and how much of it I’m consuming.” As such, she rated this formulation a 3.5 out of 5. 

[Related: Best Greens Powders]

She adds that it’s also worth noting that “the research surrounding greens powders is extremely limited, especially regarding their roles in weight loss.”

It’s heartening, however, to know that Show Me the Greens is certified organic, non-GMO, and manufactured in an NSF-certified facility. 

Its low cost doesn’t hurt, either. At just $1.60 per serving (or $1.28 if you subscribe), Show Me the Greens is one of the more affordable greens powders on the market — many can cost upwards of $3 per serving — and your purchase comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee if you’re unsatisfied. “Compared to other options on the market, it’s a cost-effective formula,” says Bourgeois.

Show Me the Greens is available in just one flavor, Green Apple Sorbet, which Bourgeois notes is “a tough one to stack with other supplement flavors.” 

Thankfully, we mostly liked the taste. “The powder tastes like green apple but has an earthy aftertaste,” said our tester, scoring the taste a 4 out of 5. “It’s drinkable and I can finish the whole serving but I can still tell it’s a greens powder. It would be perfect if it were a little sweeter.”

Read our full KOS Show Me the Greens Review.

Best Carnitine for Weight Loss: Momentous Acetyl L-Carnitine

“Acetyl-L carnitine is a naturally-occurring amino acid that has been linked to energy production and brain function — two important factors in weight loss,” says Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, MS, RDN, LD. (22) She likes Momentous Acetyl L-Carnitine, which she scored a 4.5 out of 5, because it eschews unnecessary fluff by delivering a concentrated dose of 500 milligrams of acetyl-L carnitine. 

What does carnitine do, exactly? Bourgeois explains, “Carnitine helps preserve muscle glycogen and promotes fat oxidation, supporting your efforts in the gym so you work towards building fat-free mass.” 

[Related: Best Carnitine Supplements]

According to research, that support can come in the form of improved VO2 max and hastened recovery, meaning you can work harder and more efficiently. (22) If you’re on a calorie deficit, that extra energy will be appreciated. 

We also like that Momentous delivers its carnitine in pill form, as we can’t imagine most athletes are keen to add another scoop of powder to their routine. 

Bourgeois does note, however, that “the liver and kidneys typically synthesize sufficient amounts of carnitine to meet daily needs.” She adds, “There is currently no standardized recommended intake, so it’s difficult to say if the 500-milligram dose of Momentous Acetyl-L Carnitine will make a huge impact on your weight loss journey.”

Best Probiotic for Weight Loss: Ritual Synbiotic+

“Probiotics can support a healthy gut when included in a well-balanced lifestyle, but Ritual Synbiotic takes it a step further by ensuring their probiotics reach the colon,” says Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, MS, RDN, LD. “A healthy intestinal barrier is responsible for the uptake of essential nutrients, an important consideration when pursuing weight loss.” (23)

As Bourgeois notes, this daily pill comes sheathed in a delayed-release capsule designed to reach the colon, where its clinically-studied prebiotics (PreforPro), probiotics (BB-12 & LGG), and postbiotics (Tributyrin) are most effective. Studies have shown that each of these can offer better gut health, improved bowel function, and relief from gas, bloating, and diarrhea, resulting in a healthy intestinal barrier. (24)(25)(26)(27)

“A healthy intestinal barrier is essential for absorbing nutrients and keeping your immune system operating at full capacity, both important for sustainable weight loss,” adds Bourgeois. 

[Related: Best Probiotic Supplements]

Our tester, a certified personal trainer and nutrition coach, rated Synbiotic+ a 4.5 out of 5, noting the easy swallowability of the capsule and its “refreshing” mint flavor. We also like that it’s been third-party tested by organizations like Eurofins, and that Ritual provides a certificate of traceability that details each product’s sourcing, testing, and packaging. 

Bourgeois, meanwhile, rated its formulation a 4 out of 5, noting that the product’s proprietary blends gave her pause. “You can’t be sure exactly how much of each strain of bacteria you’re consuming,” she notes. 

Price is also a consideration. Ritual Synbiotic+ costs $1.80 per serving, which makes it one of the more expensive probiotic supplements in a market where many options cost less than $1 per serving. “I’m a big supporter of prioritizing whole foods, so there are definitely less-expensive ways to consume gut-friendly bacteria,” says Bourgeois.

Best Vitamin D for Weight Loss: Lifeforce Vitamin D+K

“Vitamin D levels have been linked to body mass index (BMI), indicating that vitamin D supplementation may support weight management efforts,” says Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, MS, RDN, LD. “Lifeforce provides 300 percent of your daily value in each serving.” She rates Lifeforce Vitamin D+ K a 4.75 out of 5, pointing out how these two vitamins are a natural pairing with synergistic benefits.

“I like that Lifeforce combines vitamins D and K in this supplement,” she says. “They’re both fat-soluble vitamins that work synergistically to play key roles in bone and heart health. If your weight loss journey includes increased physical activity, it’s important to be mindful of your bone and cardiovascular health.” (28) 

Vitamin D serves several important purposes, but as far as weight loss is concerned, it can help prevent the formation of new fat cells, and studies suggest that a deficiency in vitamin D may be related to obesity. (29) While the body produces vitamin D when exposed to sunlight, many people don’t get enough sun to provide adequate amounts, which is where supplemental vitamin D comes in handy. 

[Related: Benefits of Vitamin D]

One issue that may arise with an uptick in vitamin D is that it can increase calcium levels in the body, which may be deposited in arteries and soft tissue, where it may lead to serious issues like heart disease. Vitamin K shuttles that calcium to your bones, where it can do some good, preventing that buildup. (28)(30)

With this Lifeforce offering, you get 60 micrograms of Vitamin D (300 percent of your recommended daily intake) that’s then balanced with 300 micrograms of vitamin K (250 percent of your recommended daily intake).

It’s worth noting, however, that the vitamin D in this formula is cholecalciferol (or vitamin D3). “Unfortunately, D3 is sourced from animals, so this supplement isn’t vegan-friendly,” says Bourgeois. “Those who want to boost their vitamin D intake but follow a vegan lifestyle will need to look for vitamin D2 instead.”

Lifeforce does, however, tout the liposomal delivery system of its Vitamin D3, which has been shown to enhance absorption and bioavailability to more quickly optimize deficient vitamin D levels faster. (31)

It’s perhaps due to this feature that this Lifeforce offering’s $1 per serving price tag — 66 cents, if you subscribe — is roughly twice the cost of other vitamin D and K supplements. 

Best Fish Oil for Weight Loss: Legion Triton Fish Oil

“The American Heart Association recommends one to two servings of fatty fish per week to support heart health, but if you don’t live near a coastline or don’t care for fish, a supplement might be just what you need,” says Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, MS, RDN, LD. (32) “Legion Triton Fish Oil provides a hefty dose of both EPA and DHA, powerful omega-3 fatty acids.”

In fact, research has shown that reesterified triglyceride fish oil, which is what this product contains, contains more EPA and DHA than natural fish oil, not to mention superior bioavailability. (33) Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to potentially increase one’s metabolic rate and increase satiety to help curb cravings. (34)(35) Other studies have shown them to help reduce abdominal fat when used as part of a weight loss regimen. (36)(37) 

Bourgeois was also impressed by this product’s sourcing. It’s made from sustainable fish like anchovies and sardines caught by fisheries approved by Friend of the Sea, an organization that audits fisheries to ensure they adopt ethical and environmentally friendly practices. The product was also third-party tested in an accredited lab. 

[Related: Best Fish Oils]

She scored Legion Triton Fish Oil’s formulation a 4.75 out of 5 for its formulation. “It contains evidence-based doses of EPA and DHA and an impressive dose of vitamin E. It is sourced responsibly and is free from artificial dyes and other chemicals.”

All of that goodness comes at a cost. Fish oil supplements can cost anywhere from around 20 cents to $2 per serving, and Triton is near the top of the range at $1.66 per serving. “You also have to take four capsules to get the full dose,” notes Bourgeois. “That may be a lot for those who are taking multiple supplements.”

What to Avoid When Buying Supplements for Weight Loss

We wouldn’t recommend any over-the-counter or off-label dietary supplement that’s presented as a quick fix or short-term solution for losing weight or burning belly fat. “I am not a fan of supplements that purposefully stifle your appetite or block nutrient absorption,” says registered dietitian nutritionist Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, MS, RDN, LD. “It’s important to listen to and honor your hunger cues when pursuing sustainable weight loss, and blocking nutrient absorption puts you at risk for long-term complications.”

[Related: How to Absorb Nutrients Better]

We would encourage anyone looking to lose a few pounds to steer clear of over-the-counter appetite suppressants, fat burners, diet pills, and professed “metabolism boosters.” That also includes off-label use of prescription weight loss pills like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Orlistat, among others. Also, if a substance has been banned for use in dietary supplements and medications — such as ephedra or clenbuterol — it should go without saying that you shouldn’t be taking it. 

According to the National Institutes of Health, many common ingredients in weight loss dietary supplements can lead to serious side effects. (38) See a handful of examples below. 

• Bitter orange: Chest pain, anxiety, headache, musculoskeletal complaints, high blood pressure, increased heart rate
• Capsaicin: Gastrointestinal distress, increased insulin levels, decreased high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels
• Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA): Abdominal discomfort and pain, constipation, diarrhea, loose stools, dyspepsia, (possibly) adverse effects on blood lipids and glucose homeostasis
• Garcinia cambogia (hydroxycitric acid): Headache, nausea, upper respiratory tract symptoms, gastrointestinal symptoms, mania, liver damage
• Green coffee bean extract: Headache, urinary tract infections
• Green tea extract: Constipation, abdominal discomfort, nausea, increased blood pressure, liver damage
• Yohimbe: Headache, anxiety, agitation, hypertension, tachycardia, myocardial infarction, cardiac failure

As previously noted, weight loss is a slow and steady process that’s best served by a “well-balanced diet, regular physical activity, and adequate sleep,” per Bourgeois. The products on our list exist to supplement your efforts by filling nutritional gaps, promoting muscle growth, and addressing nutrient deficiencies caused by a calorie deficit and dietary changes.

How Much Do Supplements for Weight Loss Cost?

Per serving, supplements for weight loss can range anywhere from a few dozen cents to nearly $5. This depends, of course, on the ingredients, dosages, amount of servings per container, and even the delivery method. 

	Supplement	Price Per Serving	Servings
Best Multivitamin for Weight Loss	Onnit Total Human	$4.60	30
Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss	XWERKS Grow	$1.96	30
Best Pre-Workout for Weight Loss	Transparent Labs LEAN	$1.66	30
Best Greens Powder for Weight Loss	KOS Show Me the Greens	$1.60	30
Best Carnitine for Weight Loss	Momentous Acetyl L-Carnitine	$0.44	60
Best Probiotics for Weight Loss	Ritual Synbiotic+	$1.80	30
Best Vitamin D for Weight Loss	Lifeforce Vitamins D+K	$1	60
Best Fish Oil for Weight Loss	Legion Triton Fish Oil	$1.66	30

Supplements that aim to deliver a single vitamin or dietary source — such as a vitamin D or fish oil supplement — are likely to be less expensive than one that works to fill multiple gaps in one’s nutrition, like a multivitamin.

[Related: Best Multivitamins for Women]

What drives up the cost of a supplement like Onnit Total Human, for example, isn’t just the wealth of vitamins and minerals it provides, but also the portioned day and night packets that accompany each serving. Ritual Synbiotic+, meanwhile, costs over $1 more per serving than a product like Naked Nutrition Naked Gut. Though both are effective probiotics, we think Ritual’s price is justified due to its more robust blend of probiotics, transparency in sourcing, and delayed-release capsule. 

If you’re feeling any sticker shock looking at these prices, do know that you can save a good chunk of change by buying any of these products in bulk. 

What to Consider Before Buying Supplements for Weight Loss

There are a variety of things to take into consideration when choosing the best supplements for weight loss. When you’re shopping for weight loss supplements, it’s important to think about your goals, manage your expectations, and be aware of your current health needs. 

Health Concerns

Consider your individual health status, goals, and any pre-existing medical conditions before purchasing a weight loss supplement. Certain supplements may interact with medications or exacerbate certain health issues, so consult with a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or registered dietitian, before adding any new supplement to your regimen — especially if you have underlying health concerns.

“It’s never too early to seek medical guidance on your weight loss journey,” says registered dietitian nutritionist Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, MS, RDN, LD. “A qualified healthcare professional can be a great support during times of physical and mental transformation. Sustainable weight loss often requires a change in our relationship with food, and a registered dietitian can help you navigate those changes safely.”

Goals

There are a number of reasons why someone would want to lose weight, and they’ll undoubtedly impact your weight loss journey. Knowing why you want to lose weight and establishing a proper timeline can help you dial in the right supplements to help you get there. 

[Related: How to Burn Fat]

Are you cutting for a bodybuilding competition, or are you trying to make weight for a powerlifting event? You may want to consider a protein powder and a pre-workout to preserve muscle mass and help you push through your workouts. If you’re on a leaner diet for a calorie deficit, adding a multivitamin or greens powder into your diet can help fill in nutritional gaps so you can stay nourished and energized. 

Be Realistic

As Bourgeois previously noted, there is no “magic pill” to help you safely drop weight. If you’re just looking to take one of these supplements and watch the pounds melt off, you’re going to be sorely disappointed. The most effective way to lose weight is to make sure you’re eating a balanced diet of whole foods and exercising regularly.

[Related: How to Lose 2 Pounds Per Week]

After that, you can choose some of these supplements to supplement your efforts. And don’t expect it to happen quickly, either. It could take weeks or even months to see results. The important thing is to be consistent. 

“Remember that your worth is not determined by the number on the scale,” says Bourgeois. “Approach your weight loss journey with a mindset focused on overall health, and you’ll be more likely to see sustainable results. And don’t be afraid to rely on the help of certified personal trainers and registered dietitians.”

Final Word

We’ll say it one more time: Weight loss supplements are not a substitute for a balanced diet, regular exercise, and plenty of sleep. They can, however, complement your efforts and help fill any nutritional gaps caused by a calorie deficit. When combined with healthy habits, the products on our list can potentially boost your energy levels, improve your gut health, and help you crank out a few more reps at the gym. 

Before scooping up one or all of these supplements, consult with a doctor, nutritionist, or fitness coach to help you develop a sustainable weight loss regimen. With a few established goals and a commitment to confronting unhealthy habits, we believe the supplements on this list can help you inch that much closer to your ideal weight. 

FAQs 

References

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