USA Weekend Eat Smart Archive

January 21, 2007

Some fat-busting supplements do work, Harry Preuss, M.D., reports in a new book, "The Natural Fat-Loss Pharmacy." The Georgetown University Medical Center researcher says the following may help you lose and keep off weight and fat (you still need to restrict calories):

EGCG, an antioxidant in green tea, increases metabolism to burn calories, kills fat cells and blocks formation of new ones. What to take: a green tea extract pill before meals for a total daily dose of 270mg to 325mg of EGCG.

CLA, conjugated linoleic acid, can melt body fat and build muscle without calorie counting or exercise. What to take: 1.7g, twice a day, of Tonalin CLA.

HCA, hydroxycitric acid, derived from a tropical fruit, quadrupled weight loss in an eight-week moderate diet. What to take: 1,500mg, three times a day, 30 minutes before meals. The brand Preuss tested, Super CitriMax, is available from Now Foods.

Chromium targets the loss of fat instead of muscle. What to take: For weight loss, 200mcg, three times a day, of chromium bound to niacin (ChromeMate), or chromium picolinate or histidinate; for maintenance, take 200mcg a day.

Starch blockers cut absorption of carbs. What to take: CarbEase or brands with the ingredient Phase 2. Follow label directions.

Jean Carper is an authority on the latest nutrition news.