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.
Related reviews
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?
I took Lipozene several years ago and became very ill. I was also afraid it would choke me as I began vomiting after taking it – throwing up pieces of ‘blue sponge’ – called them told them off and they said to throw them away they would take the charge off and they did.
Barbara, wow! Never heard of anybody throwing up blue sponge chunks! Guessing the sponge-like stuff was the glucomannan but as for the blue color, I got nothing.
I’m sorry but you have to eat right and exercise to lose weight. If you just take this pill and stop it I bet every one of those individuals will gain the weight back and probably more. This society is too much of fast and fried food. Once you’ve had two different people have heartaches within 6 months of each other you tend to change your habits even more. You have to change your habits to make yourself healthier.
Does it cause hair loss
Nancy, Ive never heard that lipozene causes hair loss. Is it doing this in you?
I know I’m a late responder but after purchasing Lipozene at Walmart I decided to do some research. I read your review and I understand the point of it. I’ve been on every diet, added every fiber supplement out there, drin half my body weight in water daily, count calories, carbs. Point is you name it I’ve tried it. My highest weight was 188 and I’m now 167. Been on lipozene a week and lost 7lbs. Though I eat healthy and exercise I know lipozene is helping because I did all of that long before Lipozene. Hope this helps anyone out there like me. My goal is 135-140 and I’m 5’6. Thanks, Denise
hey Joe, since this seems to be a natural product which will work by just causing a person to eat less…would u consider it safe while breastfeeding?
JJ, that is a tough call. I want to say yes since its just a fiber but Im not aware of any breastfeeding research so i cant be sure. Run this question past your pharmacist and see what he/she says. Generally women who are pregnant/breastfeeding should take as few supplements as possible. if you get an answer, I hope you will let me know 🙂
I’ve been taking Lipozene for a little more than a week and a half, following the instructions, etc. I did not weigh myself when I started, but I know I was over 180 based on how my clothes fit. I’m down to 177, having lost another pound in the last few days. My once tight-fitting clothes are now beginning to let me breathe again.
I began taking it as my schedule has become much more hectic which leaves me little time for regular exercise (As in 20 minutes a day, 3 days a week at least). I am fairly active and in my late 40’s, but was packing on the pounds.
I would say for the most part that Lipozene is causing me to eat less calories. My suggestion would be to follow the instructions exactly, and be mindful of in between meal snacks. I don’t know how it works for anyone who has limited activity or is extremely overweight, but so far, I’m happy with the results.
The Metabo Up supplements that came with the Lipozene package (I bought the twofer at Wal-Mart) contain something like 120mg of caffeine per tablet, so be careful in taking them.
20 days since my last post and I’ve lost a total of 10 pounds since I started (About 4 weeks ago). I switched from Lipozene to a less expensive Glucommanan supplement I found on Amazon (3 times as many tablets for half the price). I am now regularly running a few miles a day again, and I’ve lost at least an inch and a half off my waist.
If nothing else, trying Lipozene helped to move me forward in getting back to my goal weight, although the cheaper Glucommanan supplement is doing the exact same thing. My only concern with Lipozene is their creative marketing technique of making it seem like this is ONLY for people who are extremely overweight (Which is why they had to settle with the FTC). It does work to help with your appetite and compels you to consider what you eat. For example, for me at least, high carb meals make me feel really bloated, so I am mixing up the meals much better than I used to.
George fantastic! Congratulations on losing 10 pounds and yes glucomannan is cheaper on Amazon.
Would it be safe to take lipozene will on Ace diet pills?
Hi Carmen, I looked up ACE Diet pills for you. It looks like its basically a caffeine pill. It’s also got a lot of chromium picolinate which as Ive mentioned in reviews of several products, doesn’t help weight loss at all. See my review of Chromium polynicotinate for more info on this.
I don’t think lipozene and ACE diet pills would cause any bad side effects but I also dont think ACE pills will do anything. I would not combine ACE diet pills and the Metabo Up product that Lipozene also sells. The metabo up product is a stimulant, like the ACE diet pills mostly appear to be.
Thank you so much for your info! It helped a great deal, i purchased Lipozene at my local walmart after seen the TV commercials but once i actually bought it i started doing the research about it, i was bit scared away by the side effects. Your site help ease this!
The one thing that still gets me is the claim that most of the weight you lose is “fat weight” or “Body Fat” – After reading about Lipozene, the pill mostly helps to feel full (which is what i need!) But would u happen to know about the losing “body fat” part?
I’ve tried to research on that but i dont get far. Thank you for any extra info you can provide 🙂 Hope my question makes sense!
Hi Ingrid, Glad you were able to find me! I think lipozene itself is pretty safe overall in healthy people. I didn’t know people were online saying it wasn’t or trying to scare people. Do read the comments here to see what others had to say.
With regard to the statements they make about losing body fat and body weight I think Lipozene TV commercials takes some liberties with these words. by curbing appetite, lipozene will help weight loss and yes some of that weight will be fat. But their TV commercials make it seem like Lipozene is something special that targets body fat which really isn’t so as far as Ive been able to tell. It’s just a fancy fiber supplement. that’s not really a bad thing. I think if lipozene does reduce appetite that you will lose weight and some body fat also.
I hope that makes sense. keep me posted on how you do Ingrid and let me know if you have any other questions 🙂
I think something that people need to keep in mind is that you can eat less and still consume a ton of calories if you drink sodas or juices all day. Drink more water!
I just started taking Lipozene. I’m a 41 year old male, 5’10” and 270 lbs. I was a gym rat in my 20’s, so not all of my weight is fat, however 10 years ago, I only weighed 205 lbs. I’m going to try Lipozene to see if my appetite curves, but cutting out soda is also a major component in this plan.
Thanks for the review Joe. Since the claim is that Lipozene is simply fiber, it may be fine for me. I’m a caffeine addict, so I don’t need any more of that.
Thanks Jason!
I am about to start using Lipozene today, and I must say that I am excited! Either it works or it doesn’t work. I work out twice a day, and track my calories online with the mYFitness Pal app. I burn 520 calories per exercise session and this i do 6 times a week. I am 5’7′ and currently weigh 169. 155 -158 is my goal. I will post my update on July 5th. Let’s see.
How are you doing Luiz, it’s been almost a year. Any weight loss?
I just bought the twin pack and I’m hoping this helps, I’ve tried everything and nothing happened, I even went vegan and that water diet! But nothing so I’m turning to science, I hope this works.
Cece, get your thyroid checked by your doctor. Also try writing things down. On my personal site, Ive listed several other things that might help also http://www.joe-cannon.com/what-weight-loss-supplements-work/
Thank you Joe for all your information. And thanks to everyone else for all their comments. It has helped me better understand what I am about to start taking. I just started Lipozene today. I need to loose at least 80lbs.
My problem is that I never stay on anything long enough to see if it works. So here is to keeping on something for longer than a week. I did start doing slim in 6 in Feb, but I didn’t see any results after doing it consistently for 4 weeks. That is the longest I have stuck with an exercise program for the last 9 years.
I have checked with the pharmacist and my doctor to make sure it is safe because I do take metphormin for my PCOS and thyroid medication. The pharmacist stated to just make sure that I take the pills at least an hour after I take my thyroid meds. She stated that their concern is that they don’t want the fiber to stick to the thyroid med to where it won’t release correctly. Other than that she wasn’t too concerned.
I am still cautious and will make sure that take the pills at least an hour before or after I take any of my other medication. Hopefully this works and I see some results.
Jennifer, I really do hope Lipozene works for you. I do hope you write back and let me know what happened -or even if you need some encouragement too 🙂
Just bought the buy one get one free pack at wal mart. I’m a 21 year old female. I weigh around 170 and wanna get back down to 125 like last summer. Couldn’t afford food back then, and used to rebuild houses in 90 degree heat. Now that I have a gym membership and can afford food, I got fat and lazy. But I really have high hopes for these things. I miss my size 3s
Joe, I wonder why everyone posting on here (who i’m sure has read your information on the product) can’t seem to understand that what you are trying to say is that this company has taken Konjac root and packaged it in blue capsules calling it Lipozene. They are selling a pill with only one ingredient.
The scam isn’t that it won’t work (making you feel fuller faster) it’s that they are calling it their own creation and charging you 4x more than what it’s worth. Hello people!!! Go to a health food store and tell the person at the counter you want a months supply of Konjac root and hand them 10 bucks!
Kat, you have a good eye! Thanks for noticing 🙂
I’m a 26 year old mother of 4. I’ve always had a problem with my weight starting from childhood!! I got a bottle of lipozene from a friend of mine and figured I’d try it. The first bottle lasted about 2 weeks. From beginning to now wich was about a month I’ve lost just over 20 pounds!!! 2 weeks into it I had already lost almost 7 whole inches!!! And that’s with not changing my diet and no additional exercise! I highly recommend this product!!!
If someone can tell me where I can add before and after pics that would be great!!! I want to be able to show the results because anyone can say anything if there’s visible proof that’s what counts 🙂
Hi Natasha,
I am thinking about trying Lipozene. How are you doing since your last post?
Hi Joe,
I am 250, 25 years old, and am male. I have been working out, running an average of 4.5 miles a day, and doing a lot of core strengthening along with some light lifting. I have also drastically changed my diet. It should also be noted that I dip two to three times a day. I have been pushing to get into the Navy, and I was told today that I have to lose five inches off my torso, or fifteen extra pounds.
Today, I picked up lipozene and have high hopes. I’ll check back in a couple of weeks with an update. I also want to take the time to thank you for taking the time to look up this product and give us your thoughts. If you have any other advice, I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks again
Nick, thanks. I do hope it helps. Here are my thoughts on weight loss supplements and other things that may help
http://www.joe-cannon.com/what-weight-loss-supplements-work/
hello Joe. I have slightly high blood. will lipozene affect it at all ?
Nicole, since its basically just a fiber I don’t think so. I just updated my review with your question about lipozene and blood pressure too since you are not the only person asking about this 🙂
My question is for Cesha…you mentioned you lost some weight in what appeared to be a short amount of time. What else are you doing in addition to the pills? Diet, work out? No alcohol? Any input will help me….Thank you!
Joe thank you dearly for your reviews. For the first time in my life i take the time to research a diet product before going out to buy it. i had a baby 2 months ago and need to lose weight. After reading all the reviews i will take a chance to try it. Will head to Walmart tomorrow, I am also glad i will be saving some money by buying it over the counter instead of ordering it. By stimulants which products are you referring to? I shouldn’t take anything in conjunction with Lipozene? Thank you so much!
Suly, thanks for your kind words -and congrats on the birth of your baby! I dont think anything else should be needed if you take Lipozene (if lipozene really works as their TV ads etc hints, nothing else should be needed right?). By stimulants, I mean caffeine, bitter orange, guarana. The Lipozene Metabo Up product contains stimulants. While Lipozene is just a fiber supplement, I have concerns with the Metabo Up product in some people and so that’s another reason why I don’t feel its needed.
If it Lipozene helps – or doesnt – do let me know 🙂