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?
it did not work for me’ a waste of money’
Well I would have to say I’ve been taking Lipozene for about week 1/2 now. and I’ve lost 12 pounds already … I’m loving it …
can I use lipozene if I am diabetic,hypertension, and suffered a stroke a couple years ago
Curious, since the active ingredient in Lipozene is a fiber called glucomannan, I personally don’t think it will hurt you. Based on what you said about having high blood pressure and having a stroke, I would not take the other product called Metabo up.
I definitely would not combine lipozene with any stimulants either.
To compare prices the glucomannan fiber is on Amazon. its in both capsules and power form.
Wow joe thank u soooooo much for the review of Lipozene! I still see the Commercial everyday about 5 times a day. I have seen alot of your reviews and come to trust them. Keep up the good work! Would like to know what you’re planning on reviewing next? Thanks 🙂 Kelley.
Thanks Kelley, I appreciate that. Right now I’m working on an anti-inflammatory product called Zyflamend whole body. I have a bunch more on my list also 🙂
I just bought this today and I’m a little afraid to start it. I don’t want to get the hyper or heart palpations. What if you drink wine in occasion? Will it make you sick?
Michele, Lipozene is basically just a fiber supplement. Read more about its fiber and other things here
http://www.joe-cannon.com/what-weight-loss-supplements-work/
As for the metabo up product, its a stimulant and I don’t like it.When you think about it, if Lipozene is so great, then the metabo up product should not be needed. I would not use metabo up.
I don’t think an occasional glass of wine will hurt but remember alcohol has a lot of calories and weight loss is all about cutting calories.
Thank you for the reply, Joe. Does this product work without the metabo up?
Hi Michele, If its going to work I don’t feel the metabo up product is needed. I am not aware of any research that combined the main ingredient in Lipozene with any stimulants so Id say just use lipozene or its active ingredient, which is likely cheaper.
hey i really want to lose weight and ive been eating fruits and vegetables and i cut off sugar/sweets and pop….im only eating fruits and veggies and soup and garden salad with chicken breasts. i am 250 pounds but i dont look 250…my doctor said i have big bones and espcecially my muscles are big because i use to work out hardcore. i really want to hit 160 pounds and i really need help on what to do. pleaseeee…ive tried excercie consistantly and im on my second week of my “diet” so i really need like dont know…a supplement or something to help me get thinner fasterrr!!!!..thanks
Ninj, the idea of fast weight loss really doesn’t exist if its going to be healthy. Here are my thoughts on weight loss products and other things that might help you http://www.joe-cannon.com/what-weight-loss-supplements-work/
Hi Joe,
I’m 29, 205lbs. Would like to lose 20 pounds. I just bought lipozene, is it safe to take with raspberry keytones?
Chris, Raspberry ketones are super popular these days whcih is why so many weight loss products now contain them. See my review of raspberry ketones for more information on them.
All that said, Id stick to lipozene for now. if it really is as good as they say, then the raspebery ketones should not be needed. Also, as you may have seen in my review RK, the research is a lot less impressive than the websites etc make it out to be.
Id also mention that the fiber in lipozene is a lot less expensive than lipozene itself. I cover this and a lot of other weight loss issues in this post http://www.joe-cannon.com/what-weight-loss-supplements-work/
I’ve been using this product for about a week now, i did weigh 151 now i weigh 142 i lost 9 pounds in a week, i also diet and drink a lot of water and green tea. This product makes me not feel as hungry i am seeing results. This product isn’t for everyone but you can’t just eat whatever you want and take this product. You have to diet for better results. Also i don’t work out and i’m melting off the pounds. Hope this helps anyone.
Kathlene, the weight may be melting off but because you are not exercising you are also losing muscle. That muscle you are losing will NEVER come back, no matter how hard you try. Once a muscle cell dies, it does not come back. Workout. You are gong to need that muscle one day. Trust me.
I just bought this product and im alil scare to take it. Cuz I have a heart murmur idk if its safe for me to take it I want to lose at least 20 pounds be4 my wedding day. Plz help me decide if I should take this product.
Denise, Lipozene just appears to be a fiber called glucomannan. Im not a doctor but I dont think thats going to hurt you (check with your doctor to make sure). I would NOT recommend the metabo up product as its a stimulant.
My name is cindia, I have been reading all the comments negative & positive about lipozene. To be honest I have become quite desperate with weight loss. I weighed 130 I’m up to 160 it’s imperative that I lose weight I can’t fit into anything. HELP PLEASE!
are you exercising- even walking? Have you looked at the MyFoodPlate.gov website?
look also at the national weight control regestery website.
weight loss supplements alone may not work. they have to be combined with other things to help long term.
I started Lipozene at 02/15/13, but I didn’t lose any weight.What is happening? How long will it take to work?
Anna, if its going to work, it should have worked by now. Remember to reduce calories in what you eat. Just taking lipozene likely would not work Im sorry to say.
Thank you so much for this amazing and helpful review on this product. In many of the replies, I see a lot of people buying this product in Walmart for about $20 a bottle. I have a question, is this product available at any other store, and in Canada?
Hi Laura, Im happy you were able to find me! Feel free to share me with your friends 🙂
I’m in the US but I’d guess Lipozene is also sold in Canada too. Check out your local drug stores, supermarkets etc. I’d be surprised if it was not in Canada.
Joe, Thank you very much for all of your helpful information. I just had to leave you a message after reading all the other comments. I feel so bad for you that you have to keep giving the same information/ answering the same questions over and over again to people who must not really read the whole article and/or comments:) You must be a very patient person. Thank you for all of the information on lipozene, it was very helpful.
Alyx, thanks for writing. I usually have the the patience of “job” and I understand not everybody reads the comments or what I wrote.
Alex, thank you for saying that. I concur. Joe, I read your article and every Q&A up to this one. I appreciate your patience and clear thinking. Diet and exercise is the simple truth and many of us think of that as the ” hard” way to go. Thank you for helping us by doing all the research for us.
Your very welcome 🙂
I started to take lipozene 2 tablets twice day, plus metabo up once day. I am going to give it a month and see what happens. Keep you all posted
Thanks!
hi joe,first of all thank you 4 ur review ,and then i’m 120 lbs i nedd to lose about 10 lbs in 8 weeks,i do go to them gym 3 days a week,but i need a pill to c result faster,what do u think is good 4 me ?
Parisa, I don’t recommend specific products. just telling your weight does not tell much about your percent body fat. You may feel you need to lose 8-10 lbs but that may be based on what you feel is right. you may already be at a low body fat for your height. do your clothes fit well? thats usually a good indication. you might also look to get your body fat tested.
It seems I am a skeptic on any advertised product. After doing my own research, I will usually conclude that the consumer is being mislead. I feel sure Lipozene purchased from a TV ad is on an auto delivery setup with your credit card charged each month. To end this program can be a huge hassle. I would question why TV ads charge $60. for a two month supply and bloggers are reporting prices of $18. and $20. for the same amount.
To claim Lipozene targets fat that lies under the skin and on top of the muscle isn’t true. The fiber pill may reduce your food intake, but targeting fat it isn’t. They make that claim because it grabs the attention of most of us over the age of 50 that discovered that pot belly that wasn’t there yesterday.
I don’t like being mislead, manipulated or lied to. This company has done all of that in my opinion. My decision is not to waste my money on this product.
So are u saying this Lipozene really doesn’t work? I can’t believe I believed the tv commercial.
People that say it doesn’t work are out of their minds. I lost at least 15 pounds a month, and when I first started it, I lost almost 25 pounds in just over the first 4 weeks.. I took 2 pills twice a day with about 16oz of water, at least 30 minutes before eating, and ate once a day, sometimes twice, with little to no exercise whatsoever.. It worked amazing for me, and it pisses me off to see all these people calling it a scam all over the internet, because it works better than any others I’ve tried in the past. If it doesn’t work for you, you’re obviously doing something wrong.
Adam, I dont know if you can make that blanket statement that people are doing something wrong. You said you were not working out while taking Lipozene, but where you doing anything else? For people to be doing something wrong implies that they should be dong something (or not doing something) in addition to lipozene. Were you doing anything else or was there something you not doing?
Well I wasn’t really doing anything except for working 8-10 hours a day like most people, and was on my feet all day.. so I might’ve walked maybe a mile or two a day altogether, and that’s about it. Maybe it worked so well because of being outside, working in the sun, sweating all day long.. And maybe it doesn’t work for others too well because of their age? It worked great for me, but I’m younger. I’m 25 now, and I was taking it 4-5 years ago. I just recently started taking it again last week, because it worked so well for me the first time around.
Adam, thanks for the follow up. Sounds like you are doing quite a bit of physical activity which might be required for lipozene to work as well as it did for you?
Hello guys I tried the MetaboUp and well the power boost feels good . I wake up at 7:00 am and eat something and then I take the 2 pills . When I arrived at work I started to feel the caffeine effect and it is kind a hyper , like if I have a lot of energy but in some way it is anxious to do something ….. Yes it is nice to feel the high the metabolism but I am not sure if this is ok (side effects)
im on day 3 of lipozene and im having similar side effects to hypoglycemia. i think im calling customer service tomorrow to get a refund. i cant stand up without getting dizzy 🙁
mmmisha, stop taking it if you are having those symptoms. Go to your doctor also today.
yeah, i didnt take them this morning and i feel fine. i dont think a doctors visit is necessary; im pretty healthy otherwise. i was just hoping to have the lipozene help me shed the last 20 lbs since ive plateaued for the last 3 months or so. im thinking of trying psyllium husks instead hoping they wont cause the same problem…. i also just started following the paleo diet.
mmmisha, glad you are feeling better:)
thank you.
i found konjac root at a health food store and i started using that instead. ive lost 5 lbs in less than 2 weeks. it definitely works with making you feel full and ive had no negative side effects. it also costs a fraction of the price of lipozene.
mmmisha, I Glad its helping 🙂
Hi Joe,
I have been reading endless reviews for Lipozene and I’m still very skeptical about it. I am only 18 and I weight over 300 ….I’d love to get down to around 190…ive tried ACE and Raspberry keytones and jadera. Nothing is helping and I’m gaining a lot 🙁 help???
Meaghan, have you tried weight watchers? I have a friend who lost 56 lbs with weight watchers! The thing I like most is the social support. supplements don’t have that.you can look at glucamannan (look it up in the search box of my site) but I think something that offers social support might be a better choice.