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While we frequently hear of “improving metabolism”, the term metabolism may be misunderstood. Metabolism refers to all of the reactions in the body’s cells that either produce or consume energy. The rate at which energy is produced generally referred to as our metabolic rate is influenced by several factors, including diet, physical activity, age, and health status. A number of dietary supplements have been shown to support metabolic health, such as alpha-lipoic acid, berberine, chromium, and psyllium husk.

Below is some useful information about top recommended supplements for metabolism support, including popular products from my dispensary. You may also explore more recent blog posts on Energy & Metabolism Support.

Herbalite

Herbalite is a Chinese Prescription Herbal Formula designed to increase energy, speed up the metabolism to burn off excess fat and body weight specifically, suppress appetite to decrease food intake and has a mild diuretic effect to eliminate water accumulation.  This formulation is not for weight gain due to hormonal imbalances or thyroid dysfunctions as another formula would be used.

Herbalite Formula Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Vibrant

Vibrant is a Chinese Prescription Herbal Formula designed to increase basal metabolism to increase energy levels and a sense of well-being with an adaptogenic function to help adapt to stress, improve mental and physical functions.  This formula is often used for tiredness, fatigue, lack of energy, chronic fatigue or used as a sports formula.

Vibrant Formula Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Alpha-lipoic acid

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is an antioxidant and a cofactor used in energy production. A decline in ALA synthesis, often associated with increasing age, may contribute to cellular dysfunction. Supplementation of ALA may help regulate anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant pathways, reducing levels of oxidative stress that may contribute to the development of cardiovascular diseases.

Find alpha-lipoic acid-containing supplements on Fullscript

Berberine

Berberine is an alkaloid found in certain botanical herbs, including Oregon grape, barberry, goldenseal, and California poppy. Berberine may interact with gut microbiota, increasing the production of certain metabolites that regulate energy metabolism. Clinical research has demonstrated several health effects of berberine supplementation, such as lowering lipid levels and improving insulin resistance. Furthermore, berberine supplementation may support cardiometabolic health by reducing inflammation and improving vascular health.

Find berberine-containing supplements on Fullscript

Chromium

An essential trace mineral, chromium is used by the body to support the metabolism of carbohydrates and lipids (fats). Chromium supplementation may help manage blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes by reducing insulin resistance. Further, supplementation of chromium picolinate, a form of the mineral, has been shown to help manage weight and improve body composition.

Find chromium-containing supplements on Fullscript 

Psyllium husk

Psyllium husk is a water-soluble fiber that comes from the seeds of the Plantago ovata plant. When mixed with liquid, psyllium husk forms a gel and slows the absorption of glucose (a simple sugar) in the digestive tract, resulting in lower blood glucose levels following meals. Psyllium husk supplementation may reduce blood glucose levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes and help lower cholesterol levels, a marker of cardiometabolic diseases.

Find psyllium husk-containing supplements on Fullscript 

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Disclaimer & Legal Notice:

All information provided is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Never self-prescribe. Call 911 for a medical emergency. Always consult your licensed healthcare provider before starting or changing any supplement, medication, diet, or exercise routine, especially if you have a health condition, are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medication. The services, products, and information shared have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease outside the scope of Oriental Medicine. Patrick W. Hart Jr., “Dr. Skip,” O.M.D., is a licensed Oriental Medicine Physician (WV Board of Acupuncture) specializing in Holistic Functional Wellness. All content is copyright protected and may not be reproduced without permission.