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Home » Best Fat Burners » The 6 Best Fat Burners for Women in 2025, With Insight from a Dietitian

The 6 Best Fat Burners for Women in 2025, With Insight from a Dietitian

We scoured the market to find our favorite supplements that can potentially boost fat burn for women.

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Written by Whitney Linsenmeyer, Ph.D., R.D., L.D.
Updated by Bojana Galic, NASM-CNC on June 3rd, 2025
Expert VerifiedMedically Reviewed By: Dr. Jennie Stanford, M.D., FAAFP, DipABOM
Expert VerifiedExpert Verified By: Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, MS, RDN, LD
Expert VerifiedReviewed By: Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1
Expert VerifiedFact Checked By: Lauren Keary

We receive free products and receive commissions through our links. See disclosures page.
  • Top Fat Burners for Women
  • |
  • Fat Burners for Women Benefits
  • |
  • How We Picked
  • |
  • Prices
  • |
  • FAQs

This can’t be said enough: No one gender identity needs (or should use) fat burners more than another. And that being said, even the best fat burners aren’t a necessary supplement for weight loss — they don’t have a ton of research, and some even include some sketchy ingredients. “A sustainable approach to fat loss necessitates a blend of nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle adjustments,” says Dr. Christopher Mohr, PhD, RD. 

But, we know that some athletes are still going to give fat burner supplements a try. So, our team of personal trainers and athletes wanted to offer the safest products possible. After looking at a number of supplements, with the help of an RD and our expert-developed supplement testing methodology, we’ve gathered the best fat burners for women (or any athlete, for that matter). We analyzed each fat burner based on a number of criteria, including:

  • Dosage: Does the fat burner contain clinically effective dosages of its ingredients?
  • Ingredients: Is the ingredients label transparent in what it contains? Are there proprietary blends that may obscure contents?
  • Third-Party Testing: Is the fat burner third-party tested by an independent lab? Does the supplement have any relevant certifications that increase our trust in the product?

Over the years, the BarBend team has helped over 1.6 million athletes find the best supplement for their health journeys. After careful consultations with a registered dietitian and our team of experts, these are the best fat burner supplements for women.

The Best Fat Burners for Women

  • Best Fat Burner for Women Overall: Transparent Labs Recomp
  • Best Thermogenic Fat Burner for Women: Jacked Factory Burn-XT
  • Best Non-Stim Fat Burner for Women: Legion Phoenix Stim-Free
  • Best L-Carnitine for Women: 1st Phorm L-Carnitine
  • Best Berberine: BulkSupplements Berberine HCL Powder
  • Best Green Tea Extract: Thorne Green Tea Extract

Medical Disclaimer: 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 use as 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. 

Experts Who Contributed

  • Dr. Jennie Stanford, M.D., FAAFP, DipABOM
  • Whitney Linsenmeyer, Ph.D., R.D., L.D.
  • Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, M.S., RDN, LD
  • Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1

The Best Fat Burner for Women Overall: Transparent Labs Recomp

Transparent Labs Body Recomp
Transparent Labs Body Recomp
Transparent Labs Body Recomp

This fat burner contains research suggested ingredient amounts of green tea extract, as well as synephrine, and HTP-5, which may suppress your appetite.

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Specs

  • Active Ingredients: Green tea leaf extract, natural caffeine, forslean, l-theanine, capsimax
  • Caffeine: 125 milligrams
  • Dosage: Two capsules
  • Third-Party Testing: Yes
  • Price per Serving: $0.91
Pros
Transparent label with zero ingredient blends
Research-supported dosage
Boost energy with 125 milligrams of caffeine
Cons
Not a stim-free formula
May need multiple servings per day

There’s no such thing as a best fat burner for men or women (they’re not gender-specific). Not to mention, fat burners aren’t a magic pill, let’s be honest. But, if you follow a consistent exercise routine and stick to a calorie deficit, they may be able to help push you over the finish line of your fat loss goal. Given the transparency and well-dosed ingredients, we chose Transparent Labs Recomp as our best fat burner overall.

“I’m usually hesitant with fat burners, but I appreciate that Recomp has been tested by a third party,” according to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN, who gave this formula a 3.5 out of 5. “I also like that Transparent Labs provides research-backed ingredients. Still, fat burners aren’t necessarily appropriate for everyone.”

A BarBend tester displaying Transparent Labs Recomp pills.
Back of Transparent Labs Stim-Free Recomp.
Transparent Labs Stim-Free fat burner at BarBend testing gym
A BarBend tester displaying Transparent Labs Recomp pills.
Back of Transparent Labs Stim-Free Recomp.
Transparent Labs Stim-Free fat burner at BarBend testing gym

According to Bourgeois, this formula provides relatively small doses of active ingredients that aim to increase mental focus, support a healthy metabolism, and reduce hunger cravings. One serving includes 300 milligrams of green tea leaf extract, 250 milligrams of ForsLean, 125 milligrams of natural caffeine, and 50 milligrams of Capsimax. (6) That being said, TL does recommend multiple doses per day, so be wary of your supplemental caffeine intake. (1)(8)(9) “If you’re sensitive to caffeine, the multiple doses of caffeine may not be ideal for you,” mentions Bourgeois.

We did give the dosage convenience a 3 out of 5, though. Keeping these pills on hand for multiple doses per day can get pretty tedious. However, be sure to only start with one capsule to see how your body reacts before you go with a full dose.

Our team gave this product a 4 out of 5 for cost. “The price is pretty good for what you’re getting, but it’s not the cheapest fat burner on the market,” says Nick English, BarBend expert contributor. One serving is only $0.91, which isn’t too expensive. But you do need to take multiple servings per day, which means you’ll have to buy a new bottle relatively quickly. If that gives you pause, consider 1st Phorm’s L-Carnitine instead, which comes in at around $0.71 per serving.

Good for: Athletes who prioritize transparency and cost-effectiveness in their supplements, and who don’t mind taking multiple doses daily.

Read More

Read our full Transparent Labs Fat Burner Review.

Best Thermogenic Fat Burner for Women: Jacked Factory Burn-XT

Jacked Factory BURN-XT
Jacked Factory BURN-XT
Jacked Factory BURN-XT

This fat burner combines ingredients to help potentially suppress appetite, boost energy, and increase your total calorie burn. Plus, these capsules are vegetarian-friendly. 

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Specs

  • Active Ingredients: Acetyl-L-carnitine HCl, green tea leaf extract, caffeine anhydrous, Capsimax cayenne pepper fruit extract
  • Caffeine: 270 milligrams
  • Dosage: Two capsules
  • Third-Party Testing: N/A
  • Price per Serving: $1.16
Pros
Contains Capsimax, which may provide a thermogenic effect
Label provides information for one capsule and two
You can buy this product in bulk
Cons
Requires multiple daily doses
No third-party testing

Green tea leaf extract, caffeine, and capsaicin may increase thermogenesis and/or suppress appetite, according to the Cleveland Clinic and the National Institutes of Health. (6) While more research is definitely needed in this area to actually determine how many more calories it may help burn, those who want a thermogenic fat burner for women may try Jacked Factory Burn-XT. (1)(8)(9)

“Burn XT contains Capsimax, which is said to reduce hunger cravings,” according to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN, who gave the formula a 3.5 out of 5. “I’m not usually a fan of messing with your hunger cues, especially when pursuing sustainable weight loss.” That being said, she recommends taking this product mindfully and under the guidance of a doctor.

Jacked Factory Burn size comparison next to quarter.
Jacked Factory XT Fat Burner nutrition label
Jacked Factory Burn XT in BarBend testing garage.
Jacked Factory Burn size comparison next to quarter.
Jacked Factory XT Fat Burner nutrition label
Jacked Factory Burn XT in BarBend testing garage.

Our team does like that the Jacked Factory bottle provides information for both one- and two-capsule servings. However, Jacked Factory recommends two doses per day, which can be a lot of extra capsules to fit into your routine (and a lot of caffeine). Whether you take one dose or two, be careful if you use this in addition to your morning cup of coffee. “If you’re sensitive to caffeine, BURN XT might give you some jitters,” says Bourgeois, in which case Legion Phoenix Stim-Free may be a better option. We gave the dosage convenience a 3 out of 5.

Jacked Factory Burn-XT is a pretty budget-friendly fat burner, though. One 60-serving bottle costs $34.99, which is about $0.58 per serving. Compared to others, this is pretty affordable. However, as with our previous pick, you do need to take multiple doses, which drives up the cost. As such, we rate this a 4.5 out of 5 for cost.

Good for: Athletes on a budget who are curious about thermogenic fat burners.

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Best Non-Stim Fat Burner for Women: Legion Phoenix Stim-Free

Legion Phoenix Fat Burner
Legion Phoenix Fat Burner
Legion Phoenix Fat Burner

Legion's Phoenix comes with an extra absorbable form of synephrine and a high dosage of EGCG to promote its fat-burning properties. Each five-capsule serving provides 834 milligrams of Citrus Aurantium.

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Specs

  • Active Ingredients: 5-HTP, calluma fimbrata, L-DOPA, forskolin
  • Caffeine: N/A
  • Dosage: Three capsules
  • Third-Party Testing: Yes
  • Price per Serving: $1.49
Pros
No stimulants
Transparent, research-backed label
Available on Amazon Prime for quick delivery
Cons
Pricey compared to other picks
Some may want caffeine in their fat burner

Some athletes prefer to exercise in the evening and, considering most fat burners contain caffeine, that makes it difficult to take the doses properly. In that case, we recommend Legion Phoenix Stim-Free as our best non-stim fat burner. This product contains zero stimulants. Emerging research suggests the ingredients in this product may reduce hunger cravings (5-HTP, calluma fimbrata), increase focus (L-DOPA), or metabolize fat (forskolin). (10)

“The caffeine-free version of Legion Phoenix scores 3.75 out of 5,” according to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN. “For a fat burner, it contains an impressive list of ingredients with science-backed doses.”

We love that Legion sends Phoenix for third-party lab testing, which is essential when choosing a supplement. The formula includes ingredients like 1,000 milligrams of Calluma fimbrata and 150 milligrams of 5-HTP, both of which may help reduce appetite. (2)(3) We also like that Legion uses vegetarian capsules, ideal for those looking to avoid animal products.

A bottle of Legion Phoenix fat burner supplement capsules at the BarBend testing center.
BarBend tester trying Legion Phoenix fat burner.
Legion Phoenix pills
A bottle of Legion Phoenix fat burner supplement capsules at the BarBend testing center.
BarBend tester trying Legion Phoenix fat burner.
Legion Phoenix pills

Unfortunately, you do have to take quite a few pills per serving. One dose is three capsules, so our team gave the dosage convenience a 3 out of 5. Especially for athletes already taking other capsules in their supplement stack, adding another three can be a lot. “If you don’t like swallowing pills, that could be a deal breaker,” adds Bourgeois. Instead, you might consider a powder, like 1st Phorm L-Carnitine.

Compared to the other fat burners on this list, Legion Phoenix is pretty pricey. One serving is $1.49, whereas most others on this list are only around $1. We gave the cost a 2 out of 5, as this may not fall within everyone’s budget.

Good for: Athletes who want one of the best stimulant-free fat burners.

Read More

Read our full Legion Phoenix Fat Burner Review.

Best L-Carnitine for Women: 1st Phorm L-Carnitine

1st Phorm L-Carnitine
1st Phorm L-Carnitine
1st Phorm L-Carnitine

1st Phorm packs 1,500 milligrams of L-carnitine in this supplement. Unlike most other fat burners, this is actually a powder, so you can mix it with your other powdered supplements. It also has a pretty budget-friendly price per serving.

Shop 1st Phorm

Specs

  • Active Ingredients: L-carnitine l-tartrate, green tea leaf extract, fucoxanthin
  • Caffeine: N/A
  • Dosage: One scoop
  • Third-Party Testing: N/A
  • Price per Serving: $0.71
Pros
Each scoop provides 1,500 milligrams of L-carnitine L-tartrate
Packs 200 milligrams of green tea extract
Five different flavors
Cons
No caffeine
No third-party testing

Unlike some of the other products on this list, 1st Phorm’s L-carnitine isn’t a traditional fat burner supplement. However, it may be able to help promote fat loss alongside a calorie deficit and regular exercise, according to the National Institutes of Health. (4) More research on L-carnitine still needs to be done to make strong conclusions, but according to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN, “[This] clinically based dose of L-carnitine [may] support the body’s biological processes to reduce fatigue during your workout and efficiently utilize fatty acids.”

“The 1,500 milligrams of L-carnitine is very close to the researched recommendation of 2,000 milligrams daily,” according to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN, who gave the formula a 3.5 out of 5. That being said, you can find L-carnitine from food sources, like meat or dairy products. As such, “[this dosage] may be overdoing it, as L-carnitine is found in various food sources,” says Bourgeois. Plus, we don’t love that this product contains artificial sweeteners. That being said, it’s still among the best carnitine supplements we’ve tested.

A little handwritten card from 1st Phorm sent to our tester.

Uncommon for a fat burner, this one also comes in five different flavors, as it’s a powder supplement. You can choose from Grape, Berry Lemonade, Strawberry Mango, Orange Sunrise, and Pineapple Coconut. However, this flavor may come at a cost. “It contains artificial sweeteners that many people cannot tolerate,” mentions Bourgeois. Seeing as you can mix this with other powders and only need to take it once per day, we gave the convenience a 4 out of 5. If powder is your preferred method of supplement consumption, you may also consider BulkSupplements Berberine HCL Powder.

1st Phorm’s price point is pretty budget-friendly, too. One 60-serving container is $42.99, which is only about $0.71 per serving. We gave this one a 4.5 out of 5 for cost per serving, though two scoops per day are recommended.

Good for: Athletes who want a fat burner that satisfies their taste buds (especially the sweet tooth).

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Best Berberine for Women: BulkSupplements Berberine HCL Powder

BulkSupplements Berberine HCL Powder
BulkSupplements Berberine HCL Powder
BulkSupplements Berberine HCL Powder

BulkSupplements Berberine HCL powder only has one ingredient — berberine HCL. You can buy this product in bulk sizes to save money but at only $0.21 per serving for the smallest container, we still think this one is extremely budget-friendly.

Shop BulkSupplements

Specs

  • Active Ingredients: Berberine HCl
  • Caffeine: N/A
  • Dosage: 500mg or ⅕ teaspoon
  • Third-Party Testing: N/A
  • Price per Serving: $0.21
Pros
Only one ingredient: 500 milligrams of berberine
Budget-friendly $0.21 per serving
Available to purchase in bulk
Cons
No stimulants
No third-party testing

We like BulkSupplements for their simple formulas and no added fillers. BulkSupplements Berberine HCl powder only contains, you guessed it, berberine HCl. There is some emerging evidence that suggests berberine may help with weight loss (5), but much more research is needed, according to the National Institutes of Health.

Plus, berberine may not be considered safe for people who are pregnant or lactating. Therefore, it is especially important to talk to your doctor before starting this supplement. 

“There’s still so much to learn about berberine and its effects on fat loss,” according to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN, who gave the formulation a 2.5 out of 5. “In addition to the limited research, the potential for medication interactions really gives me pause. Plus, it’s not third-party tested.” If third-party tested supplements with transparent ingredients are a must, we suggest Transparent Labs Recomp.

In terms of dosing, we didn’t love the way that BulkSupplements doses its berberine. The serving size is one-fifth of a teaspoon, which can be pretty inconvenient. In order to get an exact serving, you may need a food scale. However, we did give this a 3.5 out of 5 for convenience, as it’s unflavored and can be mixed with other supplements. 

“While many studies suggest berberine may help encourage weight loss and improve body composition, the optimal dosage is unclear,” says Dr. Jennie Stanford, M.D., FAAFP, DipABOM. “Some evidence even suggests it needs to be dosed multiple times per day to achieve this effect.”

This is among our most budget-friendly picks, and our team gave the cost a 5 out of 5. One 50-gram container costs $21.96 and contains 100 servings, which is only about $0.21 per serving. “There isn’t any fluff in Bulk Supplements’ Berberine HCI. You’re paying for Berberine, and that’s what you get,” adds Bourgeois.

Good for: Non-pregnant or lactating athletes working with a medical professional who want a basic fat burner formula, no frills.

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Best Green Tea Extract: Thorne Green Tea Extract

Thorne Green Tea Extract
Thorne Green Tea Extract
Thorne Green Tea Extract

Thorne packs 250 milligrams of green tea extract in just one capsule of this supplement to help potentially increase your body fat burn. Our team also loves that this supplement is available on Amazon Prime for quick delivery.

Shop Amazon

Specs

  • Active Ingredients: Green tea phytosome
  • Caffeine: N/A
  • Dosage: One capsule
  • Third-Party Testing: N/A
  • Price per Serving: $0.50
Pros
Packs 250 milligrams of decaffeinated green tea extract
Subscribition can save 20 percent
One capsule per serving
Cons
Green tea may not work for everyone
No third-party testing

Green tea extract is among the most researched and most common fat burner ingredients. “Camellia sinensis, where Thorne derives their green tea extract from, has been linked to positive effects on weight management, diabetes control, and cardiovascular health,” says Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN. Research suggests that green tea extract may have a modest effect on weight loss efforts through its effects on ghrelin, the hunger hormone. (6)(8) Thorne’s green tea extract only contains this single ingredient, making it a more natural fat burner for women, and it’s decaffeinated, ideal for athletes who don’t want any extra caffeine (another popular non-stim fat burner is the Legion Phoenix Stim-Free).

“The research has shown that green tea may offer many benefits for the average healthy adult,” Chelsea Bourgeois, RDN, said, giving the formula a 4 out of 5. “However, it doesn’t come without risks and should be discussed with your doctor before adding it to your supplement routine.”

For dosage convenience, we gave the product a 3.5 out of 5. The serving size is only one capsule, though Thorne does recommend multiple servings per day, which can be inconvenient, especially if you’re on the go.

A single bottle of 60 servings only costs $30, which is about $0.50 per serving. However, considering you need to take up to three servings per day, the price gets driven up, so we gave Thorne a 3.5 out of 5 in the cost category.

Good for: Athletes who want a single-ingredient fat burner and prefer to avoid stimulants.

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How We Chose the Best Fat Burners for Women

Although they’re not quite as popular as, say, the best pre-workout supplements, fat burners for weight loss are still pretty prevalent on supermarket supplement shelves. Using our supplement testing methodology, our team of experts combed through dozens of products to make sure you’re getting the best fat burner for active women.

  • Dosage: Our team (including our expert dietitian) took a close look at the dosage of each ingredient in our recommended fat burners to ensure you’re getting clinically-effective doses. We also prioritized products that don’t involve multiple doses per day.
  • Ingredients: Fat burners don’t always have the cleanest ingredients, so we chose products with transparent labels and clinically-tested ingredients. 
  • Proprietary Blends: We’re not huge fans of proprietary blends, as it can be difficult to decipher how much of each ingredient you’re getting. Our team picked fat burners with no proprietary blends, opting for transparent labels instead.
  • Third-Party Testing: Supplements can get sketchy, especially considering they’re not regulated like other products out there. So, we prioritized products that are tested by a third party to guarantee the label on your products is accurate.
  • Price: Supplements can get pretty pricey. Our team selected a range of price points to offer something for every budget.

Benefits of Fat Burners for Women

As we’ve said, even the best women’s fat burners aren’t a must-have supplement. “Lifestyle factors like getting enough sleep, managing stress, and staying hydrated are important in managing body fat over time,” says Dr. Christopher Mohr, PhD, RD. However, along with a consistent exercise routine and calorie deficit, they may be able to help push you over the finish line towards your fat-loss goal.

Back of the Nike Therma-FIT Swift Running Jacket.
Pair fat burners with a healthy diet and exercise to help you reach your goals.

Here are a few benefits that these supplements may offer:

  • Increasing Fat Oxidation: Your body can use both carbohydrates and fat as a fuel source. Several factors affect fat burning or fat oxidation, such as the intensity and duration of your exercise, as well as your diet. (7) Certain ingredients in fat burner supplements are theorized to increase fat oxidation. 
  • Increasing Metabolic Rate: If you’re balancing your energy intake and expenditure, , taking a fat burner may help to slightly increase your metabolic rate. For example, capsaicin is one ingredient that may have a thermogenic effect, helping you burn more calories throughout the day.
  • Increasing Energy: Many fat burners contain caffeine, which can help increase your energy levels. “Caffeine is a stimulant that can boost alertness, lower fatigue, improve mood, and improve focus and concentration,” says Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD. This may help you exercise longer or harder, increasing your overall calorie burn. (1)
  • Appetite Suppressant: Certain ingredients are theorized to suppress appetite, such as capsaicin. (9) Though we’re generally not a fan of ingredients that alter your hunger and satiety cues, this is one of the mechanisms of these ingredients.

How Fat Burners Work

First, you should know this: Fat burners aren’t a silver bullet for fat loss. Instead, they’re most effective as part of a holistic well-being regimen that includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, and restorative sleep. In general, fat burners work via three main methods: thermogenesis, increasing fat oxidation, and providing energy for workouts.

Thermogenesis

Thermogenesis is the process of raising your body temperature or increasing your calories burned while at rest. Ingredients like caffeine, green tea extract, or capsaicin may help the body burn more daily calories, especially when paired with workouts.

Increased Fat Oxidation

Another common way your body burns fat is by using it for energy during workouts or daily activities. Ingredients like L-carnitine help move fatty acids into the mitochondria (the powerhouse of the cell) for energy production. That way, your body is more likely to use the stored fat during exercise.

Providing Energy for Workouts

We’ll say it again: Fat burners don’t work in a vacuum. You’ll need to work out regularly in order to see a difference in your body fat percentage. To assist with that, many of the best fat burners for active women feature caffeine, which boosts energy and endurance so you can go harder during your gym time.

How Much Do Fat Burners for Women Cost?

To see what you are actually getting for your money when it comes to any supplement, you need to weigh the cost of the container against the number of servings you’re getting in that container. For women’s fat burners, this number typically varies from around $0.30 to about $3.00 per serving with an average price of $1.13 per serving.

Best ForProductKey IngredientsCaffeinePrice
Best Fat Burner for Women OverallTransparent Labs RecompGreen tea leaf extract, natural caffeine, forslean, l-theanine, capsimax125 mg$0.91 per serving
Best Thermogenic Fat Burner for WomenJacked Factory Burn-XTAcetyl-L-carnitine HCl, green tea leaf extract, caffeine anhydrous, Capsimax cayenne pepper fruit extract270 mg$1.16 per serving
Best Non-Stim Fat Burner for WomenLegion Phoenix Stim-Free5-HTP, calluma fimbrata, L-DOPA, forskolinNone$ 1.49 per serving
Best L-Carnitine for Women1st Phorm L-CarnitineL-carnitine l-tartrate, green tea leaf extract, fucoxanthinNone$0.71 per serving
Best Berberine for WomenBulkSupplements Berberine HCL PowderBerberine HClNone$0.21 per serving
Best Green Tea ExtractThorne Green Tea ExtractGreen tea phytosomeNone$0.50 per serving

What to Consider Before Buying Fat Burners for Women

It’s most important to consider your personal goals before looking for a supplement. The main things you’ll want to consider here are the ingredients you’re looking for, the time at which you’ll be taking your fat burner, and the amount of money you’re willing to put toward this supplement.

As always, it’s critical to talk to your doctor before starting any supplement. The supplement may contain ingredients that interact with other medications you are taking, certain foods in your diet, or even other supplements. 

Ingredients

Above all, you’ll need to decide on the type of fat burn you are looking for — fat oxidation, thermogenesis, or appetite suppression. Though many fat burners include ingredients that touch all three of these methods, most products lean more heavily toward one of the three.

A BarBend tester shows what Legion Phoenix Pills look like at the BarBend garage.
Legion Phoenix Pills

When you are looking at these ingredients, you’ll also want to make sure to stay away from proprietary blends. These blends that may be listed on products do not give you a full look into the ingredients you’re getting and their dosages, so it’s best to steer clear altogether.  (12)

Timing

If you prefer to take your fat burner when you wake up in the morning, any product on this list should be just fine. However, if you prefer to take it before a workout, you’ll need to consider the stimulants in the product and how that affects your stack. If you prefer to work out late at night, you may want to stay away from fat burners with stimulants (like caffeine) that could affect your sleep if you take them too late in the day. “Caffeine can stay in your system for up to six hours, so if you take a fat burner with caffeine in the afternoon or evening, your sleep that night might suffer,” says Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD.

Medical Opinion

While most over-the-counter fat burners probably won’t cause any harm, different athletes have different bodies. That’s why we recommend everyone speak with a medical professional before trying a fat burner, especially if you have any pre-existing conditions.

Possible Side Effects of Fat Burners for Women

While fat burners for weight loss aren’t typically considered harmful, it’s important to be aware of any possible side effects before you add a new supplement to your stack. The side effects of fat burners may include increases in heart rate and blood pressure, a result of the stimulants often included in the formula. Similarly, these stimulants may make it more difficult to fall and stay asleep, especially if you’re taking dosages later in the afternoon or evening. Finally, some of the ingredients in fat burners for active women (like green tea extract, capsaicin, or certain herbs) may lead to digestion issues, such as diarrhea or constipations. As always, talk to your doctor or trusted medical professional before taking a fat burner.

Price

Most basic fat-burners include the main fat-burning ingredients (like cayenne pepper, caffeine, and green tea). If you’re willing to pay a little more though, more premium fat burners may also include extras like HMB or DMAE that can help with goals outside of fat burn. However, evidence recommending their use is limited. (13)(14) It’s a general rule that the more “stacked” a supplement is, the more it will cost. When we see longer ingredient lists, or higher doses of certain ingredients, there is usually a bump in price as well.

Who Shouldn’t Use Fat Burners?

As a matter of safety, certain populations should avoid taking fat burners unless medically recommended by their doctor.

Pregnant or Breast-Feeding People

Little is known about the effects fat burners may have on fetal development in utero or in infants if passed via breastfeeding. It’s safest to avoid taking a fat burner for active women while pregnant or breast-feeding.

People with Heart Conditions

Because many fat burners contain stimulants (like caffeine), those with heart conditions will want to avoid taking the supplements. That’s because stimulants may increase heart rate and blood pressure, which could lead to further complications such as arrhythmia, hypertension, or heart palpitations.

Anyone Under Age 18

This may go without saying, but children and teenagers should not take fat burners. Their bodies are still growing and developing, and taking a fat burner may interrupt that natural development.

Certain Prescription Medications

Some prescribed medicines may have negative interactions with even the best fat burners. If you take a prescription medication for antidepressants, blood pressure medications, diabetes medications, or thyroid treatments, you should avoid taking a fat burner unless explicitly cleared by your medical professional.

Best Fat Burners for Women FAQs

Do fat burners for women work?

They do, but not to the point that pills alone will eliminate a pot belly. “Fat burners” can have several effects, the most useful of which is appetite suppression, since excess calories cause weight gain. Some ingredients, like cayenne, synephrine, and green tea extract, may help you to burn a few extra calories per day. (1)(8)(15)

What are the best natural fat burners for women?

– Caffeine: Seems to increase adrenaline, which breaks down fats and decreases the release of fatty acids. Might burn an extra 100 calories or so. (1)
– Vitamin D: Some studies demonstrate benefits for fatty acid metabolism. (16)
– Forskolin: It may signal cells to produce more ATP, helping you burn more energy reserves.(10)
– Yohimbine: While it may be difficult to digest,  this stimulant might lead to more fat loss through improved exercise performance. (17)
– Chili peppers: Cayenne might suppress appetite and increase metabolic rate, perhaps from 5 to 50 calories per day. (18)

What is the best fat burner for women?

Based on our research and consults with registered dietitians, we think Transparent Labs Recomp is the best fat burner for women. We appreciate that it’s third-party tested with research-backed ingredients, and it’s a reasonable cost, too.

Do fat burners help burn belly fat?

No, fat burners don’t necessarily help burn belly fat. It’s a myth that fat burners can target any specific area of your body. The best way to burn belly fat is to have a consistent workout routine and a diet that’s mindfully balanced to include an ideal ratio of fats, carbs, and protein.

Can you take fat burners daily?

Yes, you can take fat burners daily. However, consider starting with a lower dosage (say, one capsule, once a day) before committing to a full regimen. This will give you time to notice any potentially unpleasant side effects.

Are there fat burners that are safe for pregnancy and breast-feeding?

There’s not enough research to support using fat burners during pregnancy or breast-feeding. It’s unclear how much of a risk the ingredients pose to fetal development or to infants when passed on through breast milk. Avoid taking fat burners if you’re pregnant or breast-feeding.

References

  1. Tabrizi, R., Saneei, P., Lankarani, K. B., Akbari, M., Kolahdooz, F., Esmaillzadeh, A., Nadi-Ravandi, S., Mazoochi, M., & Asemi, Z. (2019). The effects of caffeine intake on weight loss: a systematic review and dos-response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Critical reviews in food science and nutrition, 59(16), 2688–2696. 
  2. Rao, A., Briskey, D., Dos Reis, C., & Mallard, A. R. (2021). The effect of an orally-dosed Caralluma Fimbriata extract on appetite control and body composition in overweight adults. Scientific reports, 11(1), 6791. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-86108-2 
  3. Ioannou, S., & Williams, A. L. (2016). Preliminary fMRI findings concerning the influence of 5-HTP on food selection. Brain and behavior, 7(1), e00594. https://doi.org/10.1002/brb3.594 
  4. Talenezhad, N., Mohammadi, M., Ramezani-Jolfaie, N., Mozaffari-Khosravi, H., & Salehi-Abargouei, A. (2020). Effects of l-carnitine supplementation on weight loss and body composition: A systematic review and meta-analysis of 37 randomized controlled clinical trials with dose-response analysis. Clinical nutrition ESPEN, 37, 9–23. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clnesp.2020.03.008 
  5. Pizzorno J. (2023). Thinking About Berberine. Integrative medicine (Encinitas, Calif.), 22(5), 6–8. 
  6. Yang, C. S., Zhang, J., Zhang, L., Huang, J., & Wang, Y. (2016). Mechanisms of body weight reduction and metabolic syndrome alleviation by tea. Molecular nutrition & food research, 60(1), 160–174. https://doi.org/10.1002/mnfr.201500428 
  7. Purdom, T., Kravitz, L., Dokladny, K., & Mermier, C. (2018). Understanding the factors that affect maximal fat oxidation. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 15, 3. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12970-018-0207-1 
  8. Chen, I. J., Liu, C. Y., Chiu, J. P., & Hsu, C. H. (2016). Therapeutic effect of high-dose green tea extract on weight reduction: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Clinical nutrition (Edinburgh, Scotland), 35(3), 592–599. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clnu.2015.05.003
  9. Rogers, J., Urbina, S. L., Taylor, L. W., Wilborn, C. D., Purpura, M., Jäger, R., & Juturu, V. (2018). Capsaicinoids supplementation decreases percent body fat and fat mass: adjustment using covariates in a post hoc analysis. BMC obesity, 5, 22. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40608-018-0197-1
  10. Nederveen, J. P., Mastrolonardo, A. J., Xhuti, D., Di Carlo, A., Manta, K., Fuda, M. R., & Tarnopolsky, M. A. (2023). Novel Multi-Ingredient Supplement Facilitates Weight Loss and Improves Body Composition in Overweight and Obese Individuals: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial. Nutrients, 15(17), 3693. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15173693
  11. Maeda H. (2015). Nutraceutical effects of fucoxanthin for obesity and diabetes therapy: a review. Journal of oleo science, 64(2), 125–132. https://doi.org/10.5650/jos.ess14226
  12. Saldanha, L. G., Dwyer, J. T., Hardy, C. J., & MacKay, D. J. (2023). Perspectives on the Use of Proprietary Blends in Dietary Supplements. The Journal of nutrition, 153(5), 1305–1308. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tjnut.2023.03.035
  13. Chang, C. K., Kao, S. Y., & Wang, C. Y. (2023). Beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate supplementation preserves fat-free mass in collegiate boxers during acute body mass loss. The Chinese journal of physiology, 66(6), 485–493. https://doi.org/10.4103/cjop.CJOP-D-23-00074
  14. Rondanelli, M., Nichetti, M., Peroni, G., Naso, M., Faliva, M. A., Iannello, G., Di Paolo, E., & Perna, S. (2021). Effect of a Food for Special Medical Purposes for Muscle Recovery, Consisting of Arginine, Glutamine and Beta-Hydroxy-Beta-Methylbutyrate on Body Composition and Skin Health in Overweight and Obese Class I Sedentary Postmenopausal Women. Nutrients, 13(3), 975. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13030975
  15. Ruiz-Moreno, C., Del Coso, J., Giráldez-Costas, V., González-García, J., & Gutiérrez-Hellín, J. (2021). Effects of p-Synephrine during Exercise: A Brief Narrative Review. Nutrients, 13(1), 233. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13010233 
  16. Karampela, I., Sakelliou, A., Vallianou, N., Christodoulatos, G. S., Magkos, F., & Dalamaga, M. (2021). Vitamin D and Obesity: Current Evidence and Controversies. Current obesity reports, 10(2), 162–180. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13679-021-00433-1
  17. Barnes, M. E., Cowan, C. R., Boag, L. E., Hill, J. G., Jones, M. L., Nixon, K. M., Parker, M. G., Parker, S. K., Raymond, M. V., Sternenberg, L. H., Tidwell, S. L., Yount, T. M., Williams, T. D., Rogers, R. R., & Ballmann, C. G. (2022). Effects of Acute Yohimbine Hydrochloride Supplementation on Repeated Supramaximal Sprint Performance. International journal of environmental research and public health, 19(3), 1316. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19031316
  18. Zheng, J., Zheng, S., Feng, Q., Zhang, Q., & Xiao, X. (2017). Dietary capsaicin and its anti-obesity potency: from mechanism to clinical implications. Bioscience reports, 37(3), BSR20170286. https://doi.org/10.1042/BSR20170286         
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