Update 8/9/20. “Have you tried that crazy wrap thing?” is the slogan I kept seeing online when I started looking into the company called “It Works!” This is because It Works! started out as a company that sold toning wraps that were said to make people skinnier. Since then, the company has branched out and now sells all kinds of different supplements. In this review, I want to look at the It Works Advanced Formula Fat Fighter (with “carb inhibitors”) and see if it really burns fat or not. I also want to take a look at It Works! the company too, in case you were as curious as I was. Hopefully, by the end of this review, you will have more information to help you do your own research, and have a better idea if the It Works Fat Fighter is right for you.
Who Makes It Works!
The website, MyItWorks.com was first registered in 2002 by a company called It Works Marketing. Over the years the address for the company has changed. This may reflect the company moving to larger headquarters.
Previous addresses for It Works Marketing (better known as It Works Global) include:
-
- 2006 44th Street, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49508
- 5325 E State Road 64, Bradenton, FL 34208-5534
The company is currently located at 908 Riverside Dr Palmetto, FL 34221-5035. Performing a google search for this address reveals a company, which is a very impressive 50,000 square foot building bearing the It Works name and logo.
Contact It Works!
The contact page of the MyItWorks website lists the following “loyal customer” contact numbers for those in the US: 1-800-537-2395 and 952-540-5699. The Better Business Bureau lists an additional contact number of (941) 348-6650. International toll-free customer support is also available in these countries as well:
- Australia: 1-(800) 750-398
- Canada: 1-(855) 560-1020
- United Kingdom: 0-(800) 098-8925
- Sweden: +46-770791808
- Netherlands:+31-858880101
- Belgium: +32-78480292
It Works Better Business Bureau Rating
The BBB rating for It Works is “C+.” When I checked the BBB file, they had a consumer alert for It Works Marketing which stated that:
- “BBB has received a pattern of complaints from consumers alleging that after trying to cancel with the business, they continue to receive additional products.
- Consumers also state that they have found additional charges being taken that the business has not informed them would be occurring.
- Complaints also allege that the business continues to bill after cancellation, and consumers are not informed that there is a $50.00 cancellation fee.”
In response to the BBB, It Works Global stated:
- “The underlying cause of the majority of our complaints is the improper enrollment of Loyal Customers by Independent Distributors.
- The business indicated that the majority of complaints are received from Loyal Customers directly enrolled by a Distributor who did not adequately disclose or explain the auto shipment commitment or Membership Fee associated with becoming an It Works! Loyal Customer.
- With regard to billing issues, the business indicated that refunds processed on the same day as an original charge are considered voided transactions, and the pending charge drops off the customer's credit card statement.”
These are just highlights. See the BBB file” for updates and more information
In an article in Forbes Magazine it appears It Works Global started out as a company marketing toning body wraps. The It Works wraps might still be the company’s biggest seller, because when I searched for their website —MyItWorks.com—the tagline for the site was “Have You Tried That Crazy Wrap Thing?”
Dr. Bill Sukala's website has a review of It Works Wraps
It Works Fat Fighter Research
When I searched the National Library of Medicine (which lists millions of studies from around the globe) for “It Works Fat Fighter,” no studies showed up. Likewise, doing a Google search for the product turned up no studies. In addition, MyItWorks.com website shows no research.
Therefore, I'm forced to concluded at this time that the product lacks clinical evidence that it works as claimed. If the Fat Fighter works, it’s because of the research on some of its ingredients. Let’s take a look at the research on those ingredients now and see what we can discover.
Fat Fighter Ingredients
According to the product label, a bottle contains 60 tablets. Two tablets contain the following ingredients:
| % DV | |
| Chromium dinicotinate glycinate 150 mcg | 130% |
| NeOpuntia (cactus leaf) 500 mg | N/A |
| Proprietary blend of the following 510 mg | N/A |
| 1. Garcinia cambogia fruit extract | N/A |
| 2. Green tea leaf extract | N/A |
| 3. Phaseolamin | N/A |
| 4. Bitter melon fruit | N/A |
| 5. Banaba leaf extract | N/A |
| 6. Gymnema Sylvestre leaf extract | N/A |
| 7. Wheat amalyase inhibitor | N/A |
| 8. Vanadium | N/A |
N/A = there is no daily value
Now that we know the ingredients, let's see if we can find any research on the ingredients to see if it really does fight fat.
It Works Fat Fighter Ingredients
Chromium
Chromium has been popular in weight loss supplements for decades which is ironic given that the majority of human studies I've seen show this is not the case. Here is my review of chromium. Notice how many studies show it doesn't help weight loss.
One thing chromium might do is reduce blood sugar levels. Keep this in mind as you review the ingredients below.
NeOpuntia
The name NeOpuntia (neo-pUnch-a) is a trademarked name for the prickly pear cactus called Opuntia ficus-indica. The cactus is said to bind fat, preventing it from being absorbed.
As we absorb less fat, we absorb fewer calories. Theoretically, this might lead to weight loss. This is why some websites call NeOpuntia a “fat-fighting cactus.” NeOpuntia is a product of the French company, Bio Serae Labs SAS.
Two tablets of the It Works Fat Fighter contain 500 mg of NeOpuntia.
In one company-sponsored study 68 women (20–55 years of age) with metabolic syndrome (basically “pre-diabetes”) were given either a placebo or 4.8 grams NeOpuntia 3 times a day with meals. People ate a “well-balanced diet” with “controlled lipid input” (in other words, they ate a low-fat diet). Forty-nine women completed the study.
Results: The women taking NeOpuntia showed significant improvements in pre-diabetes symptoms, such that 39% of the women were no longer diagnosed with metabolic syndrome. These are very impressive results – but there are two things you need to know:
1. This study makes no mention of weight loss.
2. The people in this study used 4.8 grams of NeOpuntia per day. This is FAR MORE than the 500 mg (1/2 gram) that 2 tablets of It Works Fat Fighter provides. Even taking 6 tables per meal, only provides 3000 mg (3 grams). Each person in the study used 1.6 grams of NeOpuntia with each meal, for a total of 4.8 grams per day.
Opuntia ficus-indica is the main ingredient in the popular health drink called TriVita Nopalea Juice, which you may have seen advertised on TV. See that review for additional information.
See my review of Calorase/FBCX, for more information.
Garcinia Cambogia
There are several weight loss studies involving Garcinia cambogia. Its active ingredient is said to be hydroxycitric acid (HCA). The way Garcinia cambogia is said to work is by preventing carbohydrates from being turned into fat.
In my review of Garcinia cambogia, I noted the research showing it worked (helped weight loss) used at least 1,667 mg per day (or 1,000 mg of HCA per day). This is important because the entire proprietary blend in It Works Fat Fighter (2 tablets) only contains a total of 510 mg.
Garcinia cambogia is the first ingredient listed, so it likely comprises most of this blend. But, I see no evidence this amount works. If you read my Garcinia cambogia review, you’ll see studies showing that 500 mg did not work. Based on what I’ve found, I don’t think the Fat Fighter has enough.
Garcinia is controversial. Over the years several reports link it to liver problems.
See the garcinia Cambogia review
Green Tea Leaf Extract
While they don't tell us what extract they are using, the label says that this extract has 20% caffeine. To me that says caffeine might be the active ingredient in this extract—but how much caffeine does the product contain? They don’t tell us.
Caffeine is one of the most most popular ingredients in weight loss supplements. It’s an ingredient in these supplements which you may have heard of before:
Caffeine is so popular that I even once reviewed a caffeine shampoo! That said, I’m not convinced that caffeine―by itself―helps people lose weight. That's because the best weight loss research usually combines caffeine with ephedra, another stimulant. Ephedra is banned from supplements in the US because it was linked to several deaths.
Phaseolamin
As the label indicates, this refers to an extract from white kidney beans. Another name for this ingredient is Phaseolus vulgaris. On some websites, this stuff is also called Bean Pod extract. Another name is Fabenol—as it was called in the supplement Lean and Fab.
Phaseolamin is said to inhibit a carbohydrate-digesting enzyme called alpha-amylase. If you block this enzyme, in theory, carbs would not be digested as well. If we can’t digest carbs, we can’t absorb their calories. In this way, phaseolamin is supposed to promote weight loss.
This is why phaseolamin is called a “carb blocker.” There is some weight loss research on phaseolamin. Let's take a look at some of that research.
Study 1
In one study researchers gave 50 people either a 1,500 mg placebo or a phaseolamin supplement called “Phase 2” twice daily with meals (3,000 mg total) for 8 weeks.
Those receiving the Phase 2 supplement lost an average of 3.7 lbs compared to the placebo group which lost an average of 1.65 pounds. One problem -and it's a big one – was only 27 people completed this study. That’s almost a 50% drop out rate. Why did so many people not complete the study?
Additionally, researchers gave people 3,000 mg of the Phase 2 supplement. We are not told how much is in the Fat Fighter – just that the entire proprietary blend equals 510 mg per 2 tablets. if using 6 tables per day it would be around 6 X510 = about 1530 mg.
Phase 2 is a proprietary phaseolamin supplement that is in many products.
Study 2
In this study, 12 people who ate a normal meal were randomly given either a placebo or Phaseolus vulgaris extract. Those taking the Phaseolus vulgaris extract had
- reduced appetite
- lower ghrelin levels (a hunger hormone)
- reduced insulin levels
- lower blood sugar
This was a very small study and only lasted 3 hours, but it’s interesting and worthy of a follow-up study.
Study 3
In this investigation 60 slightly overweight men and women were randomly given either a placebo or 445 mg of a Phaseolus vulgaris extract for 30 days before their main carbohydrate-containing meal of the day.
Those who received the Phaseolus vulgaris extract showed a significantly greater reduction in body weight, fat mass, BMI, and other parameters, compared to placebo. The product used in this study was also called Phase 2.
There are also many mouse studies on this ingredient. Since we are not mice, I won't discuss them.
Bitter Melon Fruit
It’s called bitter melon because it has a bitter taste when eaten. Other names include Momordica charantia bitter gourd and salsamino
There are over 200 different compounds in this plant.
The majority of that research appears to be limited to rats and mice. Much of the research is deals with how bitter melon might help diabetes and blood sugar issues by way of its ability to increase insulin levels.
In one study, researchers treated human fat cells with bitter melon juice. They noted that the juice enhanced fat burning in those fat cells. While intriguing, this was still just a test tube study. The real test would be to give it to people.
See the review of Apple Cider Vinegar. You may be surprised by that research.
Gymnema Sylvestre
The leaves of the Gymnema plant appear to have a blood-sugar-lowering effect, and it might also reduce carb absorption. The majority of the weight loss research, however, involved mice and rats. One human study might provide some insights on why some of the ingredients in the Fat Fighter were chosen.
In this 8 week study, 60 overweight people were randomly given either:
- Placebo
- Garcinia cambogia (4667 mg)
- Garcinia cambogia (4994 mg) + niacin-bounded chromium (4mg) + Gymnema sylvestre (400 mg)
Those getting the combination of all 3 ingredients showed more weight loss than those taking the placebo. But, the amounts of the ingredients used in this study are far MORE than are contained in It Works Fat Fighter.
For more insights see these other reviews:
- Healthe Trim (for weight loss)
- Glucotor V2 (for diabetes)
Wheat Amylase Inhibitor
Amylase is an enzyme that helps us absorb carbs. So if you inhibit this enzyme, it might reduce our ability to absorb carbs. This ingredient just sounds to me like a carb/starch blocker derived from wheat. But, just calling it “wheat amylase inhibitor” is vague, because without knowing the exact name of the inhibitor compound, I can’t say much about it, other than it probably works similarly to phaseolamin, discussed above.
Vanadium
Another name for this compound is vanadyl sulfate. Vanadium appears to have an insulin-like effect and might reduce blood sugar.
Vanadium does seem to lower blood sugar in people with type II diabetes. Vanadium is listed last in the ingredients of the proprietary blend. This means it is likely to present in the least amount. This is good because vanadium might become toxic at high levels. The amount, beyond which side effects might be noticed, is currently thought to be 1.8 mg per day for adults.
For more on vanadium see these reviews:
Blood-Sugar Lowering Ingredients
Here are the ingredients in It Works Fat Fighter that might reduce blood sugar levels:
- Chromium
- Gymnema Sylvestre
- Vanadium
Ingredients That Block Carbs
Here are the ingredients in It Works Fat Fighter that are thought to be carb blockers:
- Garcinia cambogia
- Phaseolamin
- Gymnema Sylvestre (maybe)
- Wheat amylase inhibitor
Note. While I call them carb blockers, the It Works company calls them “carb inhibitors.” these phrases mean the same thing.
Ingredients That Block Fat
Here are the ingredients in It Works Fat Fighter that might block fat:
- NeOpuntia
So, there are more carb blockers in Fat Fighter than fat blockers. Based on this, a better name might be “It Works Carb Fighter.”
Ingredients with the Most Evidence
Based on the studies I could locate, here are the ingredients in It Works Fat Fighter that I feel have the most evidence and are likely the main active ingredients in this product:
I highlight this ingredient because:
1. There are more weight loss studies on this ingredient than any of the others in the product.
2. There aren't as many negative side effects for this as say garcinia Cambogia
It Works Fat Fighter Side Effects
Here are a few things to think about when taking It Works Fat Fighters. This list is not complete:
- Start with less than suggested for the first week to see how you respond
- Stop all supplements at least 2 weeks before surgery
- Pregnant and breastfeeding moms should speak to their doctor first
- If you take any medications, speak to your doctor and pharmacist
- Bitter melon might reduce blood sugar, which may be an issue for some people who take diabetes medications.
- Gymnema Sylvestre might lower blood sugar levels.
- Vanadium might lower blood sugar. At high doses, vanadium might also cause a color change on the tongue (a green color). The amount which might cause side effects is controversial, due to the lack of good research on vanadium.
In the comments below, some have said they developed headaches, fainting and one person mentioned seizures.
If you had any side effects—positive or negative—leave a comment below so others (including me) can benefit from your experiences.
Does The Fat Fighter Work?
It's hard to say at this time if the product helps people lose weight or blocks fat. No clinical studies on the supplement could be located. I admit I could be wrong and the supplement might do exactly what its name says it will do. But, for me, I'd like to see a few studies first to see if it really works.
This was a really interesting read! I’m actually an It Works distributor and I was curious to see what you had to say. Thank you for all the information on the studies of the ingredients. I can understand why people would say that the Fat-Fighters name is misleading. When I explain it to possible customers I explain that it’s to help with cheat meals not necessarily to cause weight loss.
I do want to clarify though a few things I saw in the comments. I don’t know who is promoting that you can have whatever and still maintain wrap results, but me and other distributors I’m connected with always emphasize that you need to maintain at least a semi-healthy lifestyle to get and maintain a results.
Rachel, thanks so much for saying that!
The statements about the BBB. They give you a low rating based on weather or not you pay them anyway. All that is your business buying into that scam as well! So if you are gonna bash products you may want to do more research yourself before claiming all your research is all true. Your just as unbelievable as what you are claiming itworks is to be.There was an investigation done buy 20/20 bbb investigation. You can youtube that.
Sheryl, I dont set out to bash products and I don’t feel I did so with this product either. the BBB gave the company a B+ at the time I wrote my review. That’s actually not bad. If I was trying to bash anything I would not not have mentioned this. The BBB has gotten some negative publicity this is true, however, as you read in my review, the BBB said they based their rating in part on the negative reviews from people, not because they were not paid. Question, can you give me another organization that would be comparable to the BBB? If yes, let me know and I’ll look into using them.
Actually, I take 2 with every meal x 3 for the day. My 500mg is now 1500mg, which is more in line with some of your recommendations for losing weight.
Missingbudgrant, I hope it works for you.
Thoroughly enjoyed this thread. Particularly the ‘double diamond’ stuff. Reminds me of a friend who started doing arbonne products and within three months was a ‘regional vice president’! Her and about 10 other girls who lived locally. Haha Thanks for taking the time to do valuable research. I shall be subscribing.
Dan, glad you enjoyed your time here 🙂
Thanks for all your research Joe. I was interested myself – since it is ALL OVER Social media about HOW MUCH MONEY the people who sign on with ItWorks are making!!! If you have to boost about your $10,000 bonus to try to lure people in – I would say it is a bunch of ^%$&&**#@@$. You can go to the http://www.greensplus site & buy quality ‘greens’ as well as all kinds of proven certified healthy organic supplements WITHOUT paying an arm & leg toward the pyramid system ItWorks uses. (***Bonus – also you will not fall into the category of ‘that person’ who is basically taking advantage and making money off their friends & acquaintances…)
How much is the bottom line cost of these products & look at the tremendous mark up ItWorks is doing – in order to award these ridiculously large bonus’s! Just sayin’ There are lots of options on the Internet available with out falling for their scheme! Save your money 😉
Linda, you are very welcome!
Yes, there are other greens out there, I know as I worked in a healthy grocery/natural foods store in the health and wellness department. I can tell you for quality, non-gmo non artificial greens they do range in price from $20 (less than It Works) to $45+ way more than It Works.
So I say you get what you pay for. And having tried about 6 different brands and flavors of greens, non of the other ones taste as good unless you mix things like chocolate or almond milk, etc. into them and then you are adding more fat and calories.
I used the Greens before I became a rep and I continue to buy them because I feel better when I take them and I haven’t gotten sick or had my allergy problems in over 2 years. I guess it’s all in what you like and what quality you are willing to pay for.
Joe,
First, thank you for your research. Second, not all MLMs are pyramid schemes..they have given the legitimate ones a bad name. Third, you should definitely be able to look at peer reviewed studies to determine whether that product you want to use has the science behind it to make it both safe and effective.
I can say that the Shaklee Corporation has close to 100 peer reviewed studies published and several more papers primarily on their own products, not just on ingredients. I have been with them since 1970. No one has to stock inventory. No one has to have an auto-ship. No one has a minimum monthly requirement unless they want to earn bonuses and then they need to do the amount that will pay the bonus they want to earn.
UC Berkeley school of public health did a comparison study of people who had used an array of the Shaklee nutrients for 20 years against people who used other vitamins or those who used none in that same time period and were astounded at the difference in health that was dramatically better in the Shaklee group.
I talk about that to show that when a company actually cares about only providing the safest and best for their consumers, it is possible to do the clinical studies in the same way that is required for pharmaceuticals.
The name of the UC Berkeley study is “The Landmark Study” It is at http//www.landmarkstudy.com and is not a Shaklee site or advertisement.
I would suggest, Joe, that before you remove the link that you check it out yourself to see that what I am saying is true and that it is a true study and has no links to me or my website.
Sandy
Sandy, thanks for writing. While I know some would disagree with me, I feel as you do that not all MLMs are ‘pyramid schemes.” While I have not yet looked at Shaklee vitamins (yet lol) I’ve known people who were involved with them, who I trust, and they have nothing but good things to say about them. I’m happy that you are pleased with them also.
For a person who likes to do some research, you failed to read what the company says that the Fat Fighters will do. Never do they say that they burn fat or that they will make you lose weight as you shared in the beginning of your study.
The only thing claimed for fat fighters is that they will will absorb some of the fat and carbohydrates from your food so that your body doesn’t.
Helps balance healthy blood glucose level and reduce cravings
(taken straight form the website) So I think your research will support those claims. Next time, don’t assume what you think the product does, rather read up.
Nora, I agree that “burning” fat was probably not the best word to use. But, by blocking the absorption of carbs or fat, the idea is that the product will cause weight loss. And, as for chromium, I do remember ads for chromium saying it would burn fat. As for balancing blood sugar levels, I did point out the ingredients that are likely responsible for that.
I have been taking the fat burner w/carb inhibitors for 3 months…………WOW. I am not a distributor but just a regular person. I have lost inches like crazy. I do not exercise and I know I would probably do better combining exercise into the mix. I do eat a lower carb type diet……5 days a week and then for 2 days I eat normally but try not to overdue it. I truly believe in this product….and say that it has enhanced my desire to look and feel better about myself. I do like the wraps to……I have only done about 3 of them but they help tighten up my areas. Good luck.
Donna, Just curious, since you eat a low carb diet how do you know its not the diet that’s working?
I would say to everyone if you are looking to loose weight save your money on these supplements and start walking! Eat healthy, have a work out buddy to support you! Purchase a fitbit or other pedometer. if you burn more calories than you eat you are going to lose weight! Good luck everyone.
An online friend who sells “it works” products actually ordered me a bottle of the “it works fatfighter” with carb inhibitors after she read my Facebook status. I will be 43 this Friday, April 24 and I presently weigh 346 pounds. I am not sure why this unwanted weight has decided to live in my body but I’m eager and willing to try anything to get rid of it.
I only eat twice a day which I’ve heard is NOT good. I haven’t drank caffeine in over 20 years due to a past of arrhythmia. So of course I’m iffy on taking these. After I quit smoking in 2011 I began gaining weight.
Bottom line.. do you think these will work for me? I can’t take this weight any longer.
Hi Kathy, First off let me congratulate you on quitting smoking! I know that must have been a very hard thing to do but the fact that you quit means you are a strong person and that you CAN lose weight.
when was the last time you had a checkup by your doctor? Have you had your thyroid checked? Given your weight I think its wise to get a check up first. My opinion is that if the product works (causes weight loss) that its mostly because of the ingredients I highlighted
its possible that the fight fighter might have some caffeine since it has green tea. I’d ask the distributor how much it has.
If you do use them, I think you should begin with less than is recommended for the first week. this is just to see how you feel, give your body time to adjust to them and see if there are any side effects.
If you do decide to use them, do keep me updated on how you are doing.
Happy birthday day by the way. My B day is next week 🙂
I know you asked Joe and not me but as an It Works Distributor, I would have to say they are probably not your best option to lose weight. I believe they are helpful in that blocking any additional fat and carb absorption would help but Fat Fighters is not sold as a weight loss item. This is the info provided by the company: “. . . take Fat Fighter up to an hour after eating, and it will absorb some of the fat and carbohydrates from your food so that your body doesn’t . . .
– Blocks some of the fat & carbs from meals
– Helps balance healthy blood glucose level and reduce cravings”
Generally, we (and I as an herbal medicine student) tell people to definitely take the Greens because they detoxify, alkalize and balance your body. Then, for weight loss we suggest the Thermofit which is actually sold as a weight loss aide. It boosts your metabolism and helps you burn 270+ extra calories per day. This is what the company says about Thermofit: “Fire up your metabolism with this naturally based, thermogenic weight loss formula! Powered by the antioxidant superfood acai berry and the metabolism-boosting properties of Capsimax® (red hot pepper blend) . . .”
– Thermogenic weight loss formula
– Antioxidant benefits of acai berry
– Promotes increased calorie burning
– Helps boost metabolic rate
– Reduces appetite
– Provides energy”
For using It Works for weight loss I would suggest Greens, Thermofit, and the It’s Vital Energy weight loss bars as snacks, optional of course and if money is not a problem then profit shakes as meal replacement, then wraps after weight loss to tighten, tone, and firm skin.
For real weight loss I would say Greens and Thermofit minimum if you can’t afford all of it. All of this should be done in addition to low impact low stress exercise such as walking whenever possible and a healthier diet and water, water, water.
I would ask your friend why she chose FatFighter because especially if you have a decent amount to lose that would not be my first choice. Also, definitely take the ingredients of all of these to a doctor first to make sure they won’t cause any problems with an existing condition you have before taking them.
We also have other products like colon support, pain relief, omegas, vitamins, minerals and female hormone support among many other things. Your friend needs to help you start at the source with a regimen that fits in your budget. My goal in life is to open an apothecary and help people with alternative medicine solutions (not just It Works, that’s just in addition because it is natural) so if you have any more questions, I would be happy to answer them without tying to oversell you on anything you’re not interested in 🙂 Good Luck either way.
Also, you might want to look up Rusty Lackey… he is a top seller in the It Works company but he started his weight loss journey out at 750lbs and has lost several hundred of that. If I am not mistaken, he is below 300 definitely below 400.
<3 Tracy
Tracy, thanks for sharing. Curious, do you have any studies showing Thermolift helps us burn over 270 extra calories per day? I’ve never heard that before and am curious.
To be honest, I am not sure where I heard that exact number, it may be anecdotal but I have heard it more than once, I might not share that number until I can figure out where I heard it. I would be willing to research more scientific information when I have more time.
However, both you and I know there is very little scientific research in existence for most alternative medicinal treatments. Whether that is big Pharma controlling research and funding or Alternative medicine being lazy and not making the best use of their funds is debatable and neither here nor there because the fact of the matter is most of the research doesn’t exist and if it does it is often buried.
Anyway, here is a little info on the proprietary blend that is supposed to boost your metabolism called Capsimax: http://www.omniactives.com/products/capsimax and I have heard outside of It Works in my studies that capsicum boosts your metabolism. I haven’t thoroughly read this article but I did see their number of test subjects was about 1000 which seems relatively small but depending on success might at least warrant someone giving it a shot if it’s not a burden on their budget.
It also contains geynema which is supposed to help with blood sugar (I know some diabetics take it), gurana and green tea (which would make it a no no for someone like Kathy avoiding caffeine- good thing I told her to take ingredients to her doctor) also used for blood sugar issues by diabetics and dandelion which is an excellent cleanser and detoxifier.
Of course, once again, as you know, finding scientific research to back these claims (although I am not unwilling to do so) is a time consuming undertaking which I am not sure would be worth my time for a message board. That is something I would do for a client.
That is why whenever I post something on a public forum as advice I tell them to run the ingredients by their doctor first and don’t even offer It Works as a solution unless they have the ok from a healthcare professional (which I am not currently).
Tracy, thanks for that. I’ll tend to think burning over 270 calories is more hype than anything else unless I can get some data on it. I looked at the link for Capsimax, thanks. I noticed they made some claims, backed up by APA-formatted references but I couldn’t see where the actual studies were located, so its hard to judge the claims.
You won’t find any information because there were NO STUDIES done on this product. Do your own research and find proven results from it, not just on a website that is sponsored by the company or a distributor.
Jen, I also now have a review of It Works Greens
http://supplementclarity.com/it-works-greens-review/
I let a chick talk me into “trying it”. I wasn’t willing to spend the hundred bucks for four of them. She had a “deal” going. One for $25 with a water bottle and all instructions.
It smelled like Ben Gay, tingled the whole time, I’ve been bloated for three days, and basically left me with a $25 water bottle. She told me not to “introduce any toxins” into my body while doing it and drink a lot of water.
When I asked if my prescription medication counted as a toxin, she said, “You should be okay.” Well, as a biology and chemistry teacher, I can definitely say even prescription medication should be a toxin.
I am sorry about your experience. Sounds like you have a distributor that is more worried about making money than actually helping people get better. While the wraps are not meant to be a weight loss item, they are a detoxification item and a skin improving product. 90% of people notice a difference in skin tone and texture within the first wrap.
However, 4 is a treatment and we ask people not to make a judgement until they try 4 because the average number of wraps to notice a significant difference is 3. The most it has taken (according to what has been told to the company) is 7 wraps. Often people do bloat with their first wrap or two and the supposed reason behind this is that those people tend to have more toxins and the response is that those people often see the biggest difference after a full treatment.
It smells like Ben Gay probably because of the eucalyptus and menthol. Also, as an herbal medicine student, I have studied something called a healing crisis. This is when you start to get your body balanced and cleansed often times things like constipation and bloating will happen as your body tries to cleanse itself. Sometimes old chronic illnesses will return as the body heals itself.
The not “introducing any toxins” into your body is basically not to consume alcohol or illicit drugs (and possibly your meds depending on what they are for). I also hope she told you not to put on any lotions or sweat while wearing it.
Again, especially since you are on medication she should not have told you “you should be okay” but rather, take the ingredients to your doctor or research contraindications yourself. If someone really wants to get healthy, they would not buy one wrap and expect a big difference. You would join as a loyal customer and get wraps for $59 one month, then maybe Greens and a vitamin or something that fits your needs.
There are a range of prices and you don’t have to keep getting the same product for 3 months and you get 10% credit for each month. After three months you can cancel (I always take it upon myself to remind customers that say they want to cancel after three months at the two week mark, 3 day mark and 1 day mark to remind them to cancel so they don’t get charged again).
If you want to stay after 3 months you get free shipping on all autoships and if you go and come back you still always get the discount prices. I only say these things because I think if you wanted to give it and yourself a fair chance, that is really the best way.
I am sorry you had someone that was more concerned with their bank account than your health. We’re not all like that.
I have been taking the supplement for five days. I feel painfully bloated and it feels like I always have a stomach ache. I also feel light-headed and a bit shaky. I had none of these symptoms before starting the supplement. I stopped taking it and hope to get back to my normal self quickly.
I have to work out to see results but the supplement was in a Skinny Pak that I purchased from It Works. I wanted to try the wraps and gel because I have crazy, stretched out skin from my adorable 10-pound baby. The wraps and gel have helped but very minimally.
To wrap up (see what I did there?), the supplements have made me super uncomfortable. They may work for different people but I threw my bottle out. I rather have the extra skin than feel this way. Thank you for the great research!
Have you been drinking a lot of water with the supplement? Just as with taking fiber or eating certain foods, you need to drink water to digest properly. It is not to say that you don’t have a sensitivity to something in the supplement, but your results are not commonly heard. Also, if you have only had the products for five days, how can you say there is only a minimal difference from the wraps when AT MOST you could have only used 2 as they are not to be applied more than once every 3-7 days?
Joe just Jealous that no one has offered to wrap him that’s all I love a Skeptic!!!!! I was one too!!!
Michelle 🙂
First I will say I am an ItWorks distributor. I only became one after being a loyal customer. I was 30, stay at home mom of 5 (3 step and 2 of my own), full time student, weighed 257lbs, and had no time for myself. I used fat fighters (only when I ate fatty meals or had to eat on the run), thermofit, and greens for 3 months. Still staying to my usual diet but adding in more water, I lost 35 lbs.
Once I got to that weight, I felt I had enough energy to start walking. I also started selling and using the wraps to tighten and tone at that point. Some of my customers complain of bloating but they are not drinking a glass of water with the pills. I was no longer pre-diabetic, I had more energy, and I learned that my husband really liked fat women. So divorce and still selling and living off my ItWorks income.
Everyone will have different results especially if they do not use them correctly. So now you have to wonder if those making negative comments actually read the instructions. Always read the instructions. But again, my own story and I did become a distributor because of my results.
Heather, sorry to learn about your divorce but am glad you lost weight and are healthier.
Just curious, I have a few friends who started distributing and have claimed that the ingredients are so natural and safe that even a pregnant woman can take it. What are your thoughts on that? Have you done any further research on any of their other supplements?
Nora, I would not believe anyone who said that. Remember natural does not always mean “safe.” Must supplements are not tested on pregnant women. In my opinion, those who say that stuff give distributors a bad name. I dont feel pregnant women should use weight loss supplements.
Nora, I think your friends are misinformed. Many of our products are safe for pregnant women such as the skin care linn and maybe some of the supplements. I and other responsible distributors always give the ingredient list to anyone with pregnancy, breastfeeding or outstanding health concerns to take to their healthcare provider for review.
As Joe said, natural is not always safe, there are many herbs that can cause complications and even spontaneous abortion. Belladonna, cyanide and hemlock are all naturally occurring but deadly. I’m sorry your friends are either uninformed or care more about sales than health. We are not all like that. Many of our products are but we never recommend the weight loss supplements, wraps, defining gel or any detoxing product for pregnant or nursing women.
The only products we are comfortable recommending are the skin care line (cleanser, toner, lip & eye cream, night cream, day cream and facial applicators).
Tracy
Joe,
I am sorry that you have gotten some of the responses you have from It Works distributors. I am one also (only since November 2014). You have asked a couple of times how the wraps work. I think in the beginning they may have been marketed as helping to lose weight but they no longer are. Now they are marketed as a product to tighten, tone and firm loose skin.
As to how they do this, my brief research into the ingredients show that they are anti-inflammatory, circulatory increasing, moisturizing, and astringent herbs. The results are meant to last 2-6 months as some claim. Other distributors on my team claim that the results have lasted years with a healthy diet and “maintenance wraps” every couple of months.
What the others were so terrible at saying – because they let their emotions get the best of them – still has a point at it’s core. Nothing is permanent and there is no magic fix. If you go to the gym for 6 mos and then stop it will come back. If you do a couple of wraps or take a few FF and stop, it will come back. We are part of a healthy lifestyle.
And yes, the products are there to give the boost, to help alongside the exercise. Let’s face it, some people LOVE the gym, they love eating only healthy food, they get addicted to the gym life. But most people don’t love it and most people will not continue it even if they have the willpower to start it. So, what is the harm in helping their work go a little further or helping to maintain their gym results with a wrap or a Thermofit (the actual weight loss product we sell)?
We can go on all day about what people SHOULD do to maintain a healthy food/exercise program but we all know most won’t. That is why we say we are part of a healthy lifestyle. Encouragement and help.
Research. Yes, it is important and I wish there was more of it. I am also studying to get a degree in Alternative Complementary Medicine with a concentration in Herbal Medicine. It is important to me to do things as naturally as possible.
So I wonder what your opinion is on herbal medicine and natural remedies. I would guess about the same as It Works products. There is very little research into these things because the pharmaceutical industry has the money to control what gets studied and what gets labeled as effective or not and until recent years, natural remedies weren’t big money-makers. However, I believe that has changed and we ARE falling down on our job to perform and show the research. You might as well stop asking for it because it is not there and likely won’t be for a while.
That being said, lack of research doesn’t mean the things don’t work. Some things also won’t work for some while they do for others. Natural remedies have been used for thousands of years and sometimes science still can’t or doesn’t care to tell us how they work.
So, yes the research is not there and yes, it should be but no, that doesn’t mean these things don’t work. I know your point is to help people know before they waste their money. But the simple fact is there may be TONS of research on one antidepressant that says it works and you may pay your $100 copay for your Rx and then that one doesn’t work for your and you have to adjust it or try a different antidepressant and you don’t get your $100 back just because it didn’t work.
Research is not a 100% guarantee that it will work for you either. So, if someone is going to spend thousands on lap band surgery or hundreds on lipo, I don’t think it will hurt them to try some It Works products for a $100 or so before they take the big plunge.
Hopefully after reading this you won’t see all distributors as robotic, kool-aid drinking crazy people. Some of us really are here to help people if we can and we believe in the product because we see it work for us and others. I research the herbs and if the product does what the herbs have been doing for hundreds of years, I will give it a shot even though there may be no research. Nothing is perfect.
Tracy
P.s. that whole “I don’t care how it works, I just care that it does” think drives me absolutely insane too. I cringe every time I hear/read one of them say it. Sorry about that. Just makes all of us look bad :\
Tracy, thanks for writing and I truly appreciate your thoughtful comments. There is research on several complimentary alternative (integrative) medicine therapies. For example, I was recently reading about how exercise appears to work as well as some antidepressant medications. Several herbs also have research on them as well.
I know from my words that some people accuse me of being a shil for the pharmaceutical industry (which is not true). There is a place for medicine but I also feel we put too much faith in that. I think the emphasis needs to be placed on prevention. If the wraps, pills, drinks etc. help people from gaining weight -and reducing the health care cost associated with that – then I’m all for it. I do think some things are overly touted to work based on less than optimal research, and that’s too bad. I like the research aspect of supplements etc. because it can help cut through the marketing hype and saves us time by giving us insights into what might be worth trying vs. not trying as as what might have side effects.
I think with your background, the future looks bright for you 🙂
Thank you. My program is fairly intensive and goes over all aspects of healthcare from herbal remedies to advanced A&P classes and toxicology,etc. And although degrees and certification dont get recognized by the federal government and most states, I felt it was important to get the education and experience to give my future clients peace of mind that I am educated in my field.
I also worked in the natural wellness section of Earth Fare (less expensive than Whole Foods but more expensive than Trader Joe’s if you’re familiar with those) and was a Pharmacy Technician for CVS. So that is how I am approaching It Works. I have had back problems and it has blown my mind how our pain supplement Relief has helped me.
Anyway, I did want to clarify one more thing they misled everyone on the business opportunity. It works absolutely does not ask you to or require you to purchase any product at all. One if the positives of it is that you don’t have to carry any inventory that you might get stuck with if you change your mind or it doesn’t work out for you.
I know that’s not your focus but others brought it up and I HATE misinformation and misrepresentation. If they bought product that was purely their decision.
Thanks for lending your ear so to speak.
Tracy
Tracy, Anytime and thanks for that further information. I’m glad you dont have to carry any product to be a distributor. That can be a recipe for a lot of unwanted stress if it cant be sold. Good to know.
I have been taking the Fat Fighters and only take them every now and then, especially when I have a big meal. After I either feel constipated and usually cant “go” for a few hours after. Also not sure if its just coincidence or not, but I feel pressure on my chest or back area afterwards for a little while.
Thaff, I’m not comfortable with you having those symptoms. If you have them at other times, I recommend you see a doctor. That said, I don’t think the Fat Fighter -or any weight loss supplement – should be taken only when you eat a big meal. It’s like people who order a bunch of fast food along with a diet coke.
Joe, that is what the company says you are supposed to do. You take the fat fighters after a big meal so it takes the carbs and fat and flush it through your system so they don’t end up being stored in your fat cells. Taking it any other time would I would guess have no effect. At least this is how I understood it.
Dan
Dan, I think what stood out to me was the idea of using it sometimes. I took that to be only sporadically. Maybe I misunderstood?
Personally I like the original body wraps.. The ones that you can pick your ingredients based on your needs and mix them all together. The It Works! wraps use a “secret formula” of ingredients infused into their wraps, which works for tons of people, but do you get all the skin benefits from them?
I find nothing beats the original ingredients applied to the body. I have received so many benefits from using body wraps most of which cam from making my own or purchasing kits online. I will eventually try It Works! wraps to see how they work.
ChristieLaw, Are you ItWorks distributor? just curious because in your comment you said “I like the original wraps” and later said “I will eventually try ItWorks wraps.” Are you referring to wraps from different companies? Maybe I misunderstood?
I had no idea that people could mix and match ingredients in the wraps. Thanks for that information.
You also said that the wraps had a “secret formula” in them. I’d be interested in knowing more about that…
I have been to a few parties and recently became a distributor of itworks. Ive seen a measuring tape go around a few bellies. After 45min to a hour they go remeasure. Every single person lost inches. Most Ive seen was 6 inches. I really don’t understand why clinical studies are so important.
When I talk to people, I make it perfectly clear that just like every other supplement on the market, it wont work for everyone. Like surgery, results wont last if you don’t change your life style. I tried a wrap 3 days ago. And I still don’t have to bend over as far to see my feet.
Who ever said they don’t care how it works works is really not a good distributor. I wanna know how it works works but cant seem to find out why it works. If it works for you do it. If it doesn’t work don’t do it.
Tummy tucks wont last if you don’t change your ways. I also don’t understand why you would say itworks doesn’t work. If formula ff works for someone, gave them no side effects, never changed there life style in anyway and they lost weight id say it works.every single person is different. It will work to a different degree for everyone and for some it wont work.
If there are no clinical studies, and you wont try it on your own, and wont take any testimonials how can you come to the conclusion that doesn’t work if it has worked for some? What a great read tho. Enjoyed this. I’m a distributor and don’t give false hope to people like other distributors.
Bottom line: if it works for you do it. If it doesn’t work don’t do it. Personal study will give the best opinion on something if it works or not. Not the 100 people in a clinical study. Maybe it works. Maybe it doesn’t. Try it for yourself. Give your testimony. Maybe that will change your opinion on itworks. Cheers. Have a great day!
Ps. Being a distributor is a hard job. To each there own. Learn to say no to pressure.
Patty, I’m happy you found my review interesting. For me, I look to research because that is my litmus test for supplements. I do this because it helps level the playing field on what people say works or doesn’t. When it comes to testimonials or pictures on the internet, it’s hard to know who is telling the truth. Some I’m sure are. Others maybe not so. For example, on other reviews I’ve written, I’ve caught fakers posting phony testimonials. As for pictures, they are fairly easy to manipulate. By looking at research, this helps me better understand what might be going on.
I usually don’t try supplements myself because if I said something worked or didn’t – I would be just another anonymous person adding to the chatter.
Research might also shed light on any side effects that some people might experience. I feel that’s important because we are all different. What might be ok for one person, might not be for someone else. Also, by looking at research I can sometimes drill down to what an active ingredient might be. This can save people money.
I’m sure being a distributor can be a very hard job and I know for some having a MLM home based business can be a profitable way to provide for their families. My hope is that my reviews help people not only help people decide what supplements might be right for them, but also help distributors better educate their clients.
I wish you continued success with It Works.
My wife has been using the wraps she got stuck with after being unable to sell them. It barely did anything and nothing at all for our friend and my mother who we got to try it.
While she was a distributor, she was pressured to have a monthly order and sign up new distributors and customers. The girl who signed her up would get part of the money and my wife would get some for each new distributor she signed. The more I deal with It Works and read about it the angrier it makes me.
There are many comments about studies not proving that a product works and some have stated that they have received results themselves that prove the product works. Of equal importance to proving something works scientifically is research that would discover any negative side effects. Just because an ingredient is “natural” or doesn’t have any adverse effects alone or in a particular concentration does NOT mean that when combined with other ingredients it is still healthy.
Without large long term studies it can’t be determined a product won’t have lasting negative health effects. I agree that any company marketing a supplement should have if not the legal, then at least a moral obligation to verify scientifically the safety of their product.
The argument that greed manipulates research is a legitimate one, but does not make research any less important. With the thousands of customers the company has they could easily include questionnaires in the box or on the website and gather tens of thousands of replies lending increased reliability to the study over time. Minimal cost and effort required, but it won’t happen. To risky financially. A result showing little to no result would decimate the company.
On the other hand a good result would be an economic windfall for the company. But as I stated earlier, I believe it is irresponsible to market a product without sufficiently studying the potential side effects. I am not saying this product doesn’t work. It may.