Updated 4/3/24. Have you seen the TV commercials for Lipozene featuring Holly Robinson Peete and Rodney Peete? Maybe you've seen the commercials and wondered if Lipozene really worked. Lipozene has been around a long time and was actually one of the first supplements I looked at when this site was created. It was time to take a new look at this diet pill to see if anything had changed. In this review, we will look at the ingredients in Lipozene, its evidence, and side effects to help you see if this weight loss supplement is right for you.
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Lipozene Research
Does Lipozene have any clinical evidence proving it really works? Well, on the FAQ page of Lipozene.com, there is a question titled “What were Lipozene's Clinical Study results?” The answer to that question makes reference to a company-sponsored study showing those taking the supplement for 8 weeks “lost 4.93 more pounds than the placebo group, and 3.86 lbs. of body fat!”
That's pretty impressive, but what they don't tell us is if the study was published in a medical journal. If it was, then we could see:
- How many people were in the study?
- Was there a placebo group?
- Were there any side effects?
While I liked the study was done under “free-living conditions” where people did not change their eating or exercise habits, there is much we are not told about how this study was conducted.
To double-check, I searched both ClinicalTrials.gov and Pubmed.gov for research. I simply went to those sites and entered “Lipozene.”
No relevant studies showed up.
This appears to show Lipozene -itself – has no peer-reviewed clinical evidence (the best kind of evidence). That said, this is not necessarily a deal-breaker because I'm very familiar with the key ingredient in Lipozene.
Let's look at that next.
Lipozene Ingredients
There is only 1 ingredient in this supplement. The label tells us that 2 capsules of Lipozene contain 1500 mg of an ingredient called:
- Amorphophallus Konjac
This is the name of a large, purple-colored plant that is common to various parts of Asia. The root of the plant is often where the ingredients in supplements come from. Thus, another name for this on supplement labels is konjac root extract. Other names include glucomannan, devil's tongue and simply, konjac.
By whatever name you call it by, it's a water-soluble fiber that expands in size -like a sponge – when it comes in contact with a liquid. This ability to expand temporarily stretches the stomach, slowing gastric emptying (stomach emptying) and making our brain think that we are full.
This in turn, reduces our desire to eat. This is how Lipozene and other konjac fiber supplements work.
Other weight loss supplements containing this konjac root extract include:
- Glucosulin (click to read review)
- Phentraburn (click to read review)
- Glucotor v2 (click to read review)
See those reviews for more info on those products.
Other Ingredients In Lipozene
The Lipozene label also tells us it contains:
- Gelatin
- Microcrystalline-cellulose
- Magnesium silicate
- Stearic acid
- Titanium dioxide
- FD&C Blue #1
These other ingredients play no role in the weight loss effects of this supplement.
Konjac Fiber Research
This is the key ingredient in this supplement. There is research on konjac fiber as it pertains to weight loss. On the product package, it's called “Amorphophallus Konjac.” Remember the other name for this fiber is glucomannan. Let's summarize that research next.
Study
In a 2015 study, 83 overweight men and women were given either konjac supplements or a placebo for 60 days. The amount of konjac used was 3000 mg (3 grams) a day. These researchers noted that the Konjac supplements caused significantly more weight and fat loss than those who took the placebo.
Study
In a review of 9 previous studies, published in 2014, researchers concluded glucomannan (konjac) did not produce statistically significant weight loss benefits.
Study
In this study glucomannan was given to 42 overweight men and women, along with a diet and exercise program. The study lasted 8 weeks. These researchers used 3000 mg of glucomannan. They noted glucomannan promoted significant loses in body weight and fat compared to those who just worked out. Exercise also enhanced the effects of glucomannan.
Study
A review article published in 2008 that included 14 studies concluded that glucomannan was effective at reducing body weight as well as cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood sugar levels.
Study
In a review article from 2005, the researchers note that taking 2g – 4g per day of glucomannan produced significant weight loss in obese and overweight adults.
A fiber called PolyGlycopleX (PGX) is derived from glucomannan (konjac). In one small study, 5g of PGX fiber, given 2-3 times a day (10g-15g/day total) to 29 overweight people for 14 weeks produced reductions in body weight and body fat.
In a 1984 study, 1000 mg (1g) of glucomannan fiber given 3 times a day (3g total) to 20 overweight people was shown to produce significant weight loss over a 2 month period.
To be fair, not all studies show it works. But, there are enough of them to think it might help some people.
Glucomannan Review
Lipozene Research Summary
Here is a quick summary of the research presented above.
| Study Year | Type Of Study | Study Results |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | 83 people/ 60days/ 3g used | Konjac works |
| 2014 | Review paper of 9 previous studies | Konjac does not work |
| 2007 | 42 people /8 weeks/3g used | Konjac works |
| 2008 | Review paper of 14 previous studies | Konjac works |
| 2005 | Review paper | Konjac works |
| 2010 | 29 people/ 8 weeks. 10-15g of PGX fiber used | Konjac PGX fiber works |
| 1984 | 20 people/ 8 weeks, 3g used | Konjac works |
As can be seen from the table above, if konjac root extract is going to help weight, it may take 2000 mg-3000 mg before benefits are observed. Keep in mind that none of these studies used Lipozene itself. Instead, the research is on the active ingredient, which is called konjac (glucomannan)
What Is METABO UP PLUS?
METABO UP Plus is the other supplement mentioned on the Lipozene website and in TV commercials. The name implies that this supplement is supposed to increase the metabolic rate. In fact, on the product website (MetaboUp.com) they say the supplement will “increase energy and boost metabolism.”
Increased metabolic rates might – in theory – burn more calories. The more calories we burn, could, in theory, contribute to weight loss.
METABO Up -which was the original product marketed – was replaced by Metabo Up PLUS. The METABO UP supplement contained these ingredients:
- Green tea
- Guarana seed extract (22% caffeine)
- kola nut
- vitamin B6 and vitamin B12
Metabo Up PLUS contains these ingredients in 2 tablets:
| Ingredient | Amount Per Serving | Percent Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Vitamin B 6 | 600 micrograms | 30% DV |
| Vitamin B12 | 15 micrograms | 215% DV |
| Blend Containing | 952 mg | |
| Green tea extract (50% polyphenols) | ||
| Guarana seed extract (22% caffeine) | ||
| Caffeine | ||
| Oolong tea leaf | ||
| Kola nut extract (10% caffeine) | ||
| Cayenne | ||
| Platycodon root extract (10:1) |
As can be seen, they added a couple of extra ingredients to Metabo UP PLUS.
Other ingredients also present in Metabo Up Plus are calcium carbonate, microcrystalline cellulose, stearic acid, silicon dioxide, Croscarmellose sodium, magnesium stearate, and pharmaceutical glaze.
We are told the total amount of ingredients in the proprietary blend adds up to 952 mg. What we can say about these ingredients? The first 5 ingredients of the proprietary blend all contain caffeine. The caffeine-containing ingredients in Metabo Up Plus are as follows:
- Green tea
- Guarana
- Caffeine (obviously)
- Oolong tea
- Kola nut
It turns out 2 capsules of MetaboUp PLUS has 120 mg of caffeine. This is why they say it boosts metabolism and gives you energy. It does it the same way any other caffeine product will.
As for Oolong tea. There is at least one study showing that oolong tea can help weight loss. This study used more oolong tea than Metabo UP has. I also saw Oolong when I reviewed Fit Tea (click to read review)
The last ingredient in the blend is Platycodon. This refers to the plant called Platycodon grandiflorum. The MetaboUp.com website says it can help to “breakdown stored fat.” That might be true in mice. But what about people? Let's wait for more research.
Bottom Line: MetaoUP PLUS is a caffeine supplement.
Is Lipozene + Metabo Up Better?
While I've seen them marketed together, I don't believe using both equals more weight loss. In other words, I don't think people have to take both supplements. After all, it's just a caffeine supplement. Since that's the case, wouldn't it be easier to just drink coffee or diet soda and get the same effect?
In the research summarized above, people only took the konjac fiber, which is the active ingredient of Lipozene. As such, that's all I think people need.
How Much Caffeine?
Lipozene has no caffeine.
Metabo Up Plus has 120 mg in 2 capsules. This is roughly about what is in a cup of coffee.
How To Take Lipozene?
It's recommended to take 1 or 2 capsules with 8 oz of water at least 30 minutes before eating.
Who Makes Lipozene?
The company is called the Obesity Research Institute LLC. Two addresses were found for the company
- 2777 USA Parkway McCarran, NV 89434
- PO Box 235330 Encinitas, CA 92023
A previous company address is 4910 Longley Ln STE 101 Reno, NV 89502-7933. Their phone number is: (800) 409-9768. It's ironic that given the name “research” is in the name of the company, no published, peer-reviewed clinical research for Lipozene could be uncovered at the time this review was created.
The BBB had an NC rating for the Obesity Research Institute when this review was updated. Ratings sometimes change, so see the BBB website for updates and more information.
Contact Lipozene
Lipozene.com lists the following contact numbers:
- Customer Service: 888-220-8907
- New Orders: 800-409-9768
I called both phone numbers, but I could NOT reach a human to speak with. The customer service number consisted of a bunch of automated responses based on what keypad number you push. When you call you may get hit with a “Congratulations” sales pitch where they offer to double the order.
Even calling the New Orders phone number consisted of the same long-winded sales pitch. I called several times and could never speak to a human.
Where To Buy Lipozene
This weight loss supplement is pretty mainstream, and it should be available at most retail stores like Walmart, CVS, GNC, Target, Costco, Acme Vitamin Shoppe, Walgreens, and RiteAid.
Lipozene Cost
A bottle of Lipozene costs $29.95. That's not too bad compared to other supplements which can cost much more. That said, if buying Lipozene on a regular basis, the cost will add up.
If you order, I suggest you call the company rather than order from the website. If you do, ask if they will be adding the non-refundable fee of $1.35 to the order.
Also, check local stores as it may be on sale. This supplement is also sold online.
Returning Lipozene
Customers have a total of 30 days to return the Lipozene weight loss pills for a refund. Return authorization numbers must be received from Customer Service and written on the shipping box. Please contact Customer Service with any questions about Lipozene's weight loss guarantee at 1-888-220-8907.
Before returning it, you have to obtain a Return Authorization Number from the company.
You can obtain this by calling the company at 1-888-220-8907. This is important. Don't just send it back without the Return Authorization Number or the guarantee won't be authorized.
If you purchased from a local retail store, just return it there. I'm sure stores will honor returns/exchanges. The same thing goes for buying from eBay or Amazon too.
Lipozene vs. Konjac Fiber
Lipozene contains only 1 active ingredient – konjac fiber – also called glucomannan. The product does contain an amount similar to what research studies have found works, so that is good.
Because of this, I believe Lipozene and Konjac fiber would work equally. This is important because konjac fiber can be purchased by itself, as capsules or a fiber powder to mix into smoothies or water.
Lipozene Pro & Con
Here is a quick overview of what I liked and didn't care for about this supplement:
| What's Good | What's Not So Good |
|---|---|
| Buying 1 bottle is not too expensive | Can become expensive if used long term |
| Contains amounts of knojac used in research | Autoship program |
| Been around a long time | Lack of clinical research on Lipozene itself |
| No stimulants in Lipozene (Metabo Up Plus has stimulants) | Customer service difficult to get a hold of |
| $1.35 non refundable processing fee on returns |
Lipozene Side Effects
Lipozene is safe for most healthy people. That said, here are some potential issues to keep in mind. See your doctor if you think any of this applies to you. This list is not complete.
- Start with less than suggested for the first week
- Stop taking Lipozene at least 2 weeks before surgery
- The product is not recommended for women who are pregnant/nursing
- If you take any medications, speak to your doctor
- Metabo Up plus contains caffeine. Don't take it close to bedtime or if you are sensitive to caffeine.
- Make sure you take Lipozene with adequate water. There has been at least one report of choking with the capsules. This is probably avery rare occurrence. The fiber also comes in powder form too.
- If the product caused reductions in food intake, in theory, a lowering of blood sugar may also occur. Rapid drops in blood sugar can make people dizzy as they become hypoglycemic.
Holly Robinson Peete Lipozene Commercial
Lipozene TV commercials currently feature actress Holly Robinson Peete and her husband, former football player, Rodney Peete. From some of the comments I've seen online, they have taken some heat for doing the commercial. I won't add to that because they are not the first -or last -celebrities to endorse weight loss supplements.
For example, Kirstie Alley and Octavia Spencer and Bob Harper and Chris Powell have all marketed weight loss supplements.
Lipozene is pretty tame compared to many other supplements I've seen – and its key ingredient has some evidence.
In the past, Lipozene TV commercials have featured Stacey Travis, an accomplished actress and has appeared in many movies and TV shows including Big Bang Theory, and Seinfeld.
Does Lipozene Work?
Lipozene contains a fiber called konjac (glucomannan), which some studies have shown may help people lose weight. Lipozen also contains the amount of konjac fiber that research has shown can work. As such, its quite possible this supplement may benefit some people.
What Do You Think?