Raspberry Ketones: Are They Just a Diet Fad?

Most of what your body needs to be healthy can be found in nature. From wholesome, organic foods to herbal and vitamin supplements, the earth supplies virtually everything you need to survive and stay well. So, it’s safe to assume that some natural ingredients possess healing qualities unmatched by man-made chemicals. However, some herbal supplements, while safe, do little to improve your overall well being.

Raspberry Ketones are derived from the ingredient in raspberries that give them their smell. Found in very small amounts in each raspberry, ketones are extracted and combined to create the natural supplement of the same name. Many medical and weight-loss specialists have proclaimed that raspberry ketones are capable of dramatically enhancing weight-loss efforts.

Weight Loss and Health Benefits of Raspberry Ketones

Proposed benefits of raspberry ketones include increasing lean body mass, treating hair loss, enhancing weight loss, and fighting obesity. As with most natural supplements, the results and opinions surrounding raspberry ketones are mixed. While the supplement has attracted some medical support from famous health experts such as Dr. Oz, it has attracted just as many critics, leaving many to wonder if raspberry ketones are the real thing or just another fad.

The Science behind the Hype

How do raspberry ketones work? According to experts, raspberry ketones regulate the hormone adiponectin – a hormone which is in small supply in overweight and obese individuals. Increasing adiponectin has shown to have a positive effect on insulin levels. All of these chemical changes within the body are thought to improve metabolism, the rate at which the body burns and uses calories.

Raspberry ketone supplements have been around for decades without much attention being given to them. However, recent studies have shown that mice lost a great deal of weight when given the supplement in high doses. Prior studies used smaller amounts of raspberry ketones and were found to be inconclusive.

Side Effects and Drawbacks Associated with Raspberry Ketones

Although raspberry ketones are considered safe by the FDA, they have never been used in any human trials. It’s rated GRAS (generally recognized as safe) and the FDA doesn’t recognize the weight loss claims.  Therefore, their effectiveness and safety have not been tested in people. Some evidence also shows that raspberry ketones are chemically related to a stimulant that can cause shakiness, high blood pressure, and accelerated heart rate. Bottom line: There’s not enough information to make a conclusive decision as to the effectiveness or safety of this dietary supplement.

As with all weight-loss regimens, medical professionals recommend eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly to facilitate weight loss even while taking raspberry ketones. While the effectiveness of raspberry ketones remains unproven, medical professionals do agree on one thing: You must eat less and exercise more to lose weight.  Please do not take any natural supplement without checking with your medical professional of choice.