Scientists from Poznań University of Life Sciences report that certain dietary supplements may support weight loss in people with obesity.
Obesity is a major global health challenge and a serious chronic disease affecting both adults and children. It occurs when body weight is higher than what is considered healthy for a given height.
Body mass index (BMI) is commonly used to assess whether a person is overweight or obese. BMI is calculated by dividing a person’s weight in kilograms by the square of their height in meters. A BMI between 25.0 and 29.9 is classified as overweight, while a BMI of 30.0 or higher is considered obese.
Obesity significantly increases the risk of serious health conditions, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, musculoskeletal disorders, and certain cancers.
Standard approaches to preventing and treating obesity include improving diet and increasing physical activity. Previous research has also suggested that some dietary supplements may help reduce excess body weight.
In the current study, researchers reviewed published evidence on the use of dietary supplements for weight management.
They identified several supplements that may support weight loss, including capsaicin, bitter orange, white bean extract, green coffee, berberine, and single- or multi-strain probiotics.
Some of these supplements may also offer additional health benefits. Bitter orange, for example, has antioxidant and anti-ulcer properties. Berberine may improve lipid metabolism and lower blood glucose levels. Capsaicin has been studied for potential benefits in neurodegenerative diseases.
The researchers also found that certain supplements — such as chitosan and vitamin D — did not significantly reduce body weight, although they may have other health effects. Chitosan may help lower blood pressure, while vitamin D can improve insulin sensitivity.
The review confirmed that higher BMI is associated with increased risk of numerous chronic diseases, highlighting the importance of effective weight management strategies.
Based on the available evidence, the researchers suggest that dietary supplements with demonstrated benefits may serve as supportive tools in the treatment of obesity and its complications. However, they emphasize that supplements should complement — not replace — healthy lifestyle changes such as balanced nutrition and regular physical activity.
The study was conducted by Natalia Wawrzyniak and colleagues and published in Acta Scientiarum Polonorum, Technologia Alimentaria.
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