Weight Loss Supplements Review (7-Keto DHEA, Forskolin and Stimulant Blend Supplements)

In this Review, CL tested stimulant blends (which are some of the most popular weight loss supplements and contain caffeine and/or synephrine), as well as supplements with 7-keto DHEA or forskolin (from Coleus forskohlii). CL has separately reviewed many other types of supplements used for weight loss (See our reports on other supplements used for weight loss: Chromium, Garcinia cambogia, Green Coffee Bean, and Green Tea, as well as information about Raspberry Ketone). There isn't overwhelming evidence that any dietary supplement enables significant, long-term weight loss. However, many small studies — typically funded by supplement companies -- suggest short-term weight loss, slimming (reducing fat but not overall weight), and/or appetite reduction (see What It Does for a summary of the evidence). What did we find? Laboratory tests and analyses by ConsumerLab revealed potentially dangerous amounts of caffeine in three products and a potentially dangerous amount of synephrine in another — twice the amount expected from its label. In addition, one Forskohlii supplement contained less than 5% of its expected forskolin. All of the 7-keto DHEA supplements contained their claimed amounts. Across products, the dose of caffeine ranged from 51.6 mg to 270 mg per serving in stimulant blends, 7-keto DHEA ranged from 25 mg to 100 mg, and forskolin ranged from just 1.9 mg to 50 mg. The cost to obtain 100 mg of 7-keto DHEA ranged from 15 cents to $3.00 and the cost for 25 mg of forskolin ranged from 33 cents to $1.40 -- showing huge opportunity for savings when buying these products. For details, see What CL Found