The 8 Best Supplements for Weight Loss of 2024

Weight loss can be tricky, and what works for one person might not work for another. It may take some trial and error, but implementing weight loss supplements along with the best weight loss programs may help speed up the process. “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.”

Protein powders, pre-workouts, and multivitamins all have ingredients that might help with stubborn weight loss, but they’re definitely not magic solutions. “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 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

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 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.

Best Multivitamin for Weight Loss: Onnit Total Human

Pros

Vitamins, minerals, and nootropics may alleviate fatigue, promote better sleep for better weight loss results

Contains B vitamins, magnesium, zinc, and Valerian root that may boost energy for more effective workouts

Comes in day and night packs to promote energy and focus during the day and relaxation at night

Cons

16 total pills per day (8 in the day pack, 8 in the night pack)

More expensive at $4.60 per serving

Some of its dosages are hidden behind proprietary blends

Onnit Total Human stands out from the typical multivitamins that cram nutrients into one or two pills. Instead, it offers vitamin packs with multiple pills designed to optimize key areas of health that support weight loss. Each daily serving includes a day pack and a night pack, with eight capsules in each.

“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 increased metabolism and with weight and fat loss. (5)(18)

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 vitamin packs are filled with Onnit’s patented supplements, including Alpha BRAIN, Stron BONE, and VIRU Tech. The day pack contains nootropics, strontium, boron, and antioxidants to reduce inflammation, improve mental clarity, and support bone health. It’s also packed with B vitamins, which studies show are essential for reducing fatigue and cognitive dysfunction (6).

The night pack features magnesium, selenium, and zinc, which support recovery and relaxation. (19) It also contains Valerian root, which may improve sleep quality and alleviate symptoms of anxiety. (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 scores Total Human a 4.5 out of 5. It’s no wonder 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.”

The downside for our tester is the sheer amount of capsules you take each day. “This is a LOT of pills for morning and for night,” they say. “Be ready to do a lot of swallowing! It’s eight pills in the day pack, and eight at night. I can swallow the entire pack in one gulp, but other people may want to break it up because it is a lot!” Swallowability scores a 3 out of 5.

If you’d rather not gulp down so many capsules each night, check out Transparent Labs Multivitamin (four capsules) or Nutricost Multivitamin (two capsules).

Read our full Onnit Total Human Review.

Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss: XWERKS Grow

Pros

Offers up to 25 grams of high-quality whey protein isolate

Contains 6 grams of BCAAs that promote muscle growth and recovery

Features several vitamins and minerals that support bone health and muscle function

Cons

Expensive for protein powders, at $1.96 per serving

Only available in 4 flavor options

Increasing your protein intake with a high-quality protein powder is a great way to support long-term weight loss. XWERKS Grow provides up to 25 grams of protein per serving, which can help boost metabolism and reduce the likelihood of overeating. (20)

“Research continues to point to high-protein intake as a sustainable weight management method,” says BarBend expert reviewer 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.” 

Although packed with protein, each serving only contains 110 calories with 1 to 3 grams of carbohydrates and 0 to 2 grams of fat depending on the flavor. This allows you to increase your protein intake without skewing your other macros or overconsuming calories. With its high protein and low calorie content this makes XWERKS one of the best protein powders for weight loss the market.

Unlike most protein powders, XWERKS Grow is packed with micronutrients like iron, calcium, and vitamins A, C, and D, which support vision, bone health, muscle function, and a strong immune system. It also contains 6 grams of BCAAs, which studies show can promote muscle growth and assist with post-exercise recovery. (9) Maintaining and building muscle helps with weight loss, as muscle mass burns more calories than fat.

“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 grams of BCAAs to support muscle growth to help with lean body composition.” Overall, she scores its formulation a 4.5 out of 5. 

Furthermore, our tester rates both its taste a 5 out of 5. “I tried the chocolate flavor and it was kind of like drinking a protein Yoo-hoo,” they say. “I’m surprised at how smooth it is.”

Solubility also gets a 5 out of 5. “Mixing isn’t really an issue at all — I barely needed a blender ball,” they say. However, the flavor options are limited with only four choices available. 

Each serving costs $1.96, leading our tester to rate this category a 3.5 out of 5. If you’re in the market for a budget protein supp, we recommend offerings from Nutricost and Jacked Factory.

Read our full XWERKS Grow Review.

Best Pre-Workout for Weight Loss: Transparent Labs LEAN

Pros

Includes a “fat burning complex” of ingredients

Contains 6 grams of citrulline malate for improved blood flow to muscles

Third-party tested supplement

Cons

Beta-alanine and betaine are on the low end of recommended doses

Contains 180mg of caffeine, which isn’t ideal for those sensitive to stimulants

Weight loss typically involves a mix of healthy eating and regular physical activity. A good pre-workout can boost your workouts and maximize calorie burning. Transparent Labs LEAN is packed with ingredients designed to help you feel energized, focused, and strong, so you can power through your next training session.

“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 combines some of the best pre-workout ingredients — citrulline malate, beta-alanine, betaine, and caffeine — with acetyl-l-carnitine, chromium picolinate, and zinc, a combo that can potentially improve metabolism and promote weight loss. (10)(11)(12)(13)

Bourgeois was impressed by LEAN’s 6 grams of citrulline malate, a nitric oxide enhancer. Nitric oxide improves blood flow and enhances nutrient and oxygen delivery to muscles. “Improved blood flow can help you make the most of your workouts, supporting weight loss efforts. Plus, citrulline may help improve physical function and muscle strength, and 6 grams is a clinically-based dose.” (14)

Additionally, it contains several micronutrients that aren’t always found in other pre-workouts. “I’m also a fan of its vitamin and mineral profile,” says 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.”

Kate Meier, an Olympic weightlifter and BarBend editorial member, used LEAN before her workouts three to four times a week for three weeks, focusing on Olympic lifting and strength training. “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,” she says. 

They score their workout experience a 4 out of 5. While they didn’t experience any tingles from the beta-alanine, the caffeine dose resonated. “I’d say it left me 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.”

If you’re sensitive to caffeine but in the market for a pre-workout, check out our picks for the best non-stim pre-workouts, which includes offerings from Legion, Nutricost, and Gainful.

Overall, Bourgeois rates the formulation 4 out of 5, noting that she loves the citrulline dose. However, the 2 grams of beta-alanine and 1.5 grams of betaine fall below the typical recommended doses of 3.2 grams and 2.5 grams, respectively.(15)

Read our full Transparent Labs LEAN Review.

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

Pros

Offers a wide variety of micronutrients to fill nutritional gaps

Includes fiber to support a healthy gut, important for weight management

Made with organic, vegan, non-GMO ingredients

Cons

Includes proprietary blends, so you don’t know all the exact dosages

Limited research on the direct effects of greens powders on weight loss

Show Me the Greens, a vegan greens powder made with all-natural ingredients, is great for filling potential nutrient gaps. It contains vitamins, minerals, fiber, antioxidants, superfoods, and prebiotics. Each serving has only 30 calories and 1 gram of sugar. Our tester rated its formulation 4 out of 5.

Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, MS, RDN, LD, appreciates Show Me the Greens for its potential to support 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 from the fiber-rich prebiotic blend, which nourishes beneficial gut bacteria. (16)

“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, 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,” adds Bourgeois, who rates this formulation a 3.5 out of 5. If proprietary blends give you pause, check out the Legion and Transparent Labs offerings on our list of the best greens powders.

Research on the impact of greens powders on weight loss is quite limited. However, improving nutrient intake is generally beneficial for overall wellbeing. For those seeking clean nutrition, Show Me the Greens is certified organic, non-GMO, and manufactured in an NSF-certified facility.

We love its low cost at just $0.83 per serving. Show Me the Greens is one of the more budget-friendly greens powders on the market and your purchase comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. “Compared to other options on the market, it’s a cost-effective formula,” says Bourgeois.

Show Me the Greens is only available in one flavor, Green Apple Sorbet. Thankfully, our tester mostly likes the taste. “The powder tastes like green apple but has an earthy aftertaste,” they said, 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.”

Solubility also scores a 4 out of 5. “I experienced a little grit during my sips, but nothing disqualifying.”

Read our full KOS Show Me the Greens Review.

Best Carnitine for Weight Loss: Momentous Acetyl L-Carnitine

Pros

Acetyl l-carnitine supports fat metabolism

Carnitine can help improve VO2 max and hasten recovery

Informed Sport certified to ensure it contains no banned substances

Cons

No standardized recommended intake for acetyl l-carnitine

Some might prefer a carnitine supplement with additional ingredients

Acetyl l-carnitine moves fatty acids into the mitochondria, the powerhouse of the cells, where they are converted into energy. It may help promote fat oxidation and assist with fat burning during exercise and periods of weight loss. (10) Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, MS, RDN, LD, rates Momentous Acetyl L-Carnitine, one of the best carnitine supplements on the market, a 4.5 out of 5, noting its concentrated 500-milligram dose of acetyl-L-carnitine and lack of unnecessary additives and fillers.

“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 Bourgeois. (22) “Carnitine helps preserve muscle glycogen and promotes fat oxidation, supporting your efforts in the gym so you work towards building fat-free mass,” she explains. 

But that’s not all. According to research, acetyl-l carnitine may improve VO2 max and speed up recovery, allowing you to train harder and more efficiently. (21) The amplified endurance could help you scorch more calories at the gym.

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.” It’s important to add, too, that the long-term cardiovascular effects of carnitine supplementation need additional research. (30)

If you’d rather not add yet another supplement to your regimen, you can also find carnitine in more comprehensive formulations, such as Legion Recharge, a popular post-workout supplement.

Best Probiotic Supplement for Weight Loss: Ritual Synbiotic+

Pros

Comes in a delayed-release capsule for better absorption

Promotes a healthy intestinal barrier and uptake of essential nutrients

Prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics can improve bowel function

Third-party tested to support its efficacy

Cons

More expensive than other probiotics at $1.44 per serving

Includes proprietary blends, so you don’t know the exact dosages

Probiotics are beneficial gut bacteria that help balance the microbiome, improving digestion, immunity, and overall gut health. Prebiotics nourish probiotics, enhancing their effectiveness. Postbiotics are produced when probiotics digest prebiotics. (39) Ritual Synbiotic+ includes all three.

“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)

This daily pill comes 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. Each of these may 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. 

One of our testers, a certified personal trainer and nutrition coach, rates the taste of Synbiotic+ a 4.5 out of 5. “I really love that there is a slight mint aroma and taste to these pills!” they say. Swallowability, meanwhile, scores a 5 out of 5.

“I love that Ritual is transparent about its supply chain and manufacturing process,” says Sadie Albert, an NCI-certified nutrition coach, after researching Synbiotic+ for BarBend. “Plus, they are a Certified B Corp, meaning they meet the rigorous standards for social and environmental performance and are actively creating a positive impact on a micro and macro level.“

Bourgeois, meanwhile, rates its formulation at a 4 out of 5, noting the product’s proprietary blends. “You can’t be sure exactly how much of each strain of bacteria you’re consuming,” she says. 

Price is also a consideration. Ritual Synbiotic+ costs a hefty $1.44 per serving. There are plenty of probiotic supplements on the market for less than $1 per serving. Hum Gut Instinct and Sports Research Daily Probiotics, for example, are much more affordable.

“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

Pros

Adequate vitamin D levels may be linked to reduced body fat storage

Vitamins D and K support bone and heart health

Offers a liposomal delivery system to enhance absorption and bioavailability

Cons

Unsuitable for strict vegans as it contains vitamin D3 sourced from animal products

At $1 per serving, it’s roughly twice the cost of other vitamin D and K supplements

Many people know vitamins D and K support bone health, but mounting research suggests these essential vitamins may also influence body weight. Lifeforce Vitamin D+K provides 60 micrograms of Vitamin D (300 percent of the recommended daily intake) and 300 micrograms of vitamin K (250 percent of the recommended daily intake). (40)(41)

“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. She rates Lifeforce Vitamin D+K a 4.75 out of 5, noting that these two vitamins work together to enhance bone health, brain health, and potentially influence body weight.

“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 many important purposes in the body, including aiding in nutrient absorption, maintaining bone density, promoting adequate immune function, and fighting inflammation. Vitamin D has also been shown to be essential for optimal metabolic functions, and some studies suggest it plays a role in weight loss, although more research is needed. Vitamin D deficiency is strongly associated with obesity, as vitamin D is often sequestered in fat tissue, making it less readily available for the body to use. (29)(42)(43) 

While the body produces vitamin D from sunlight exposure, many people don’t get enough sun to meet their needs. Fortified foods like milk, orange juice, and cereal, along with vitamin D supplements, can help ensure adequate levels. (44)

[Related: Benefits of Vitamin D]

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

Dr. Jennie Stanford, M.D., FAAFP, DipABOM, points out, “Newer, less-studied, plant-based vitamin D3 supplements are becoming increasingly available. More research is needed to understand their absorption and effectiveness.”

These capsules feature a liposomal delivery system, which has been shown to enhance absorption and bioavailability to more quickly optimize vitamin D levels. (31) This likely contributes to the higher price tag of $1.00 per serving, which is roughly twice the cost of other vitamin D and K supplements. 

Best Fish Oil for Weight Loss: Legion Triton Fish Oil

Pros

Omega-3s support heart and brain health

Omega-3s potentially increase satiety, boost metabolism, and reduce abdominal fat

Third-party tested in an accredited lab

Cons

More expensive than other fish oil supplements

Four capsules per serving

Our tester had some fishy burps

Fish oil is celebrated for its impressive benefits, especially for your heart and brain. Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, it helps reduce inflammation, lower triglycerides, and protect against cognitive decline. (32) But its perks don’t stop there – these powerful fats help optimize your metabolism and support your weight loss journey.

“Legion Triton Fish Oil 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, says Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, MS, RDN LD. She rated the formulation a 4.75 out of 5. 

The re-esterified triglyceride form of fish oil in this product delivers higher concentrations of EPA and DHA compared to natural fish oil and also offers superior bioavailability for better absorption and effectiveness. (33)(45) Furthermore, obesity and inflammation are closely connected. The added vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant, helps combat inflammation, which may support improved metabolic health and weight loss efforts. (34)

“Omega-3 fatty acids truly are powerhouses in terms of improving our health,” says Dr. Jennie Stanford, M.D., FAAFP, DipABOM. “Their powerful anti-inflammatory properties not only reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, but they also promote optimal cellular functioning for metabolism and fat modulation.”

Regarding weight loss, omega-3 fatty acids may enhance fat burning, boost metabolism, and improve satiety to help curb cravings. (35) Other studies suggest they may help reduce abdominal fat when used as part of a weight loss regimen. (36)(37) More research is needed to validate these findings.

That’s all great, but you may still get the burps associated with fish oil supplements. Our tester, a certified personal trainer, did. “They’re not as bad as other fish oil burps I’ve endured, but you’re still burpin’,” they say. As for taste, they give Triton a 4.5 out of 5. “There’s the slightest fish oil taste, but that’s to be expected.”

Ease of use scores a 4 out of 5, with our tester noting the amount of capsules you need to take her serving. “My only real complaint is that you have to take four capsules. That’s no fun.” If you’re also uncomfortable swallowing so many pills, you may prefer the single softgel of Sports Research Omega-3 Krill Oil, one of the best krill oil supplements we’ve tested.

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. 

• Safety: Just because a product is on a shelf or an online store doesn’t make it safe for consumption. (1) 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, heart, or kidney failure. (2) While the FDA has removed some of these questionable products from the market, more have popped up in their place.
• Unsubstantiated Claims: Unsubstantiated Claims: 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 Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RD. “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 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. 
• 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. 

What to Avoid When Buying Supplements for Weight Loss

We never recommend weight loss supplements that promise rapid and drastic results, as these claims are often misleading and can be harmful to your health. Sustainable weight loss requires time, consistency, and a balanced approach. 

“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.”

We encourage anyone aiming to lose weight to avoid over-the-counter appetite suppressants, fat burners, and diet pills, including the off-label use of prescription medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Orlistat (these should only be used under the guidance of a physician). Furthermore, if a substance is banned in dietary supplements or medications — like ephedra or clenbuterol — it’s best to steer clear. 

According to the National Institutes of Health, many common ingredients in weight loss dietary supplements can lead to adverse effects, some of which can be serious. (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
• 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

It’s important to use supplements containing these ingredients responsibly, as these side effects may occur when taken in excess or with certain medical conditions. Consult your healthcare provider before starting a new supplement to monitor for side effects and ensure it’s safe for you.

How Much Do Supplements for Weight Loss Cost?

Supplements designed to support weight loss come with a range of price tags. Our list features various supplement types, including protein powders, greens powders, and pre-workouts, with prices typically ranging from $0.50 to $5.00 per serving.

	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

[Related: Best Multivitamins for Women]

What to Consider Before Buying Supplements for Weight Loss

There are a variety of things to think about when choosing the best supplements for weight loss. Consider how these supplements can support your weight loss plans, but keep in mind that they won’t provide a quick fix. Your personal goals, expectations, and health concerns should be considered before choosing a product.

Health Concerns

There’s a lot more to weight loss than just diet and exercise, and health concerns can play a major role in how quickly or slowly weight loss is achievable. Some medical conditions make losing weight harder, while others cause unintentional weight loss. Certain supplements may also interact with medications or exacerbate health issues. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider, such as a doctor or registered dietitian, before starting a new supplement to ensure it’s safe for you.

“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.”

Understanding Your Goals

When aiming to lose weight, having a clear plan is essential. Setting specific goals can keep you motivated and help you choose the right supplements. If you’re focusing on weight lifting to boost metabolism, a protein powder can aid in muscle maintenance and growth. If your goal is to fill nutrient gaps, a greens powder could be a good option. Ideally, combining exercise, healthy eating, quality sleep, and stress management will set you on the path to a healthier lifestyle and support your weight loss efforts.

Be Realistic

The diet industry can be misleading, with commercials and ads constantly promoting quick-fix weight loss trends, diets, and pills. In reality, sustainable weight loss takes time and effort. A safe and healthy goal is losing 1-2 pounds per week. Rapid weight loss through extreme measures often leads to regaining the weight—and sometimes more— which can be harmful to your health.

Choose supplements to supplement your efforts, but don’t expect them to zap fat. 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.”

Best Supplements for Weight Loss FAQs 

References

1. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Facts About Dietary Supplements. [Updated 5/16/23]. https://www.fda.gov/news-events/rumor-control/facts-about-dietary-supplements
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