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?
Ok
My names is tiffany I’m 23 years of age..I’m 5’4 I weigh about 171..had a baby 9 months ago most of my weight is in my stomach just wanna get rid of it so gonna try lipozene hope it works
Tiffany, me too. Let me know if it does.
Afterthought: I’ve also been diagnosed with depression December of ’12. Could that affect it any, too? Thanks! 🙂
Tiffany, I dont think the fiber in lipozene would have any effect on depression. Depression can be complex but I think when you lose weight that your depression will be improved. Believe me, things will improve. They will get better. Just trust me.
Thanks you so much! I will take everything you said and use it. I’ve taken my first two this morning and we’ll see how it goes 🙂
Again, thank you for your time and I don’t know how else to thank you other than a thank you. I’m getting way better at watching myself and slowing down and I think I can do this.
Thanks for all your help, Joe! 🙂
Tiffany, you are very welcome. I will say a prayer for you today also 🙂
Hey Joe. I stumbled across this page after my mom got me a bottle not too long ago. I haven’t taken any yet, but I’m kind of wary about whether I can take this or not. I know it reduces urges to eat and all that jazz, but does it really work?
I’m 14 (no, it’s not a typo) and weigh almost 200 lbs. I have some self-esteem issues and I’m bullied a lot by my weight. I want to change all that. I don’t work out, but I’m hoping to get involved in sports soon. I’m starting to eat healthier with the help of my mom (who weighs barely a hundred if that). I saw the commercials and I wondered if it would help me any. I’m a bit concerned about my age and if that would affect anything.
Would it work for someone as young as I am? I plan to lose a good 50-70 pounds over the next few months and I hope that this supplement will be enough to motivate me to work really hard. I just want to know if I can get any results whatsoever before I get my hopes up too high.
P.S.: Would taking it with Magnesium pills help, too? I’ve been taking 400mg of that for a good while now.
Tiffany, Since lipozene is just fiber, its possible it will help you eat less. remember calories are important – not just fat grams. By helping you eat fewer calories, its possible it might help. I dont think age is an issue but you should be able to get the same effect by eating more fruits and veggies because these have fiber also.
Sports are good but remember that walking can help you burn calories as well. If you and your mom can walk 30-60 minutes per day that will help you too. you dont have to do all the walking at the same time either. thats a beauty of exercise.
I dont think there should be a problem with magnesium but you didnt say why you were taking magnesium. magnesium wont help weight loss if that is the reason (just wanted to mention that)
Here is a link to my personal site. take a look at the list of 13 things at the end of this post as they may also help weight loss
http://www.joe-cannon.com/what-weight-loss-supplements-work/ (dont do #13 -the last in the list – though as its not appropriate for someone your age).
Really sorry to hear you are being bullied. Believe me I do understand what you are going through all too well. Tiffany, one of my degreess is exercise science so if you have any questions about exercise, nutrition etc or just want some guidance or myth busting, feel free to ask and Ill try to help.
Not satisfied with this product. Have been taking them and am on the last bottle. Follow instructions dont eat junk food eat eat food low in calories. Actually gained 8 pounds very disappointed. Your guarantee said satisfaction or return my money will see if that guarantee is better than the product!
Robert, If you bought Lipozene from a store, just return it to that store with the receipt. I’m sure they will give you a refund.
I’ve am thinking about trying lipozene and after seeing this blog I believe I will give it a try. i just want to thank you Joe for all of your time and opinion. You are obviously a very bright and knowledgeable individual. It sounds like it may not work for everyone, but does work for the majority of people who have tried it on this blog. I will be sure to exercise and drink plenty of water. I’ll keep you posted on my progress. I am about 280lbs and need to lose about 100 lbs. 🙂
Capri, thanks and I do hope Lipozene helps you. Keep me posted on your progress or if you have any other questions 🙂
I have try every diet weight watchers, Jenny Craig, and nutrisystem nothing works I started Lipozene on 09/11/2013 I have lost 11 lbs so far!!!
Thanks Lucy, I hope it continues to work for you 🙂
I’ve been using Lipozene now for 16 days and have lost 13 pounds. 13 pounds is a decent amount and also just a start.
Like any other diet pill, you should always exercise for faster results. I’d be happy if a pill would shed off weight with No Exercise. But in the real world, exercise is key.
Okay so i am not satisfied with my body. I am 19 and weigh about 130lbs but have fat around my stomach and love handles. I was thinking about buying the lipozene pill or that Glucomannan pill. I eat all the time and want to STOP. What do you think i should do?
Jazzie, Do you know why you eat all the time? are you hungry or bored or depressed? think about why you are eating today and if it is not for the right reasons (being hungry) try to do something else until the feeling goes away or go for a walk or drink a glass of water. Check out the 13 different things that might help people lose weight in this post I wrote
http://www.joe-cannon.com/what-weight-loss-supplements-work/
If you want to gain weight, take lipozene. I haven’t even finished the first bottle and have gained 5 lbs and haven’t eaten anything different than I had before. Lots of water and exercise and 2 square meals a day. I lost 5 lbs on my own by cutting back on starches and eating lots of fruit so thought maybe this could boost up the weight loss a bit. Not so, it packs on the lbs. Not a good item.
Beautifully done review. dug right to the heart of the product that most reviewers lack.
Thanks Will, that’s very kind of you to say 🙂
IT’S A TOTAL SCAM!
Do not buy this product! It is a total scam to take your money. The company neglects to tell you when you purchase it that you have 30 days from the purchase date to return it and most products don’t get to you until 3-5 weeks after ordering it. Mine arrived 3 weeks and 2 days after my order date.
I used only two and a half bottles (13 days’ worth) and saw absolutely no results. I made sure to eat healthy, portion control and exercised daily for 45 minutes a day. I called the company to get my money back and was told that I had passed the 30-day money back guarantee!
When I asked how that was possible since I had only received it 14 days ago I was told that I should have called them to let them know I received my product in 3 weeks even though it was within the time frame they told me it would arrive. I asked to speak to a supervisor and BIG surprise no one was available but they would call me back within 24-48 hours. Still waiting for that call four days later!!!!!
If you want to lose weight try Weight Watchers or Jenny Craig. Don’t buy this product.
Hi joe, just wondering what would combining any other stimulants with lipozene?
Sammy, since lipozene is just a fiber I dont think there would be an additive effect with stimulants. I also dont feel stimulants are needed. Its always best to start with only 1 supplement at a time to see what happens (side effects, benefits) before adding in another supplement. That way its easier to adjust things and know what product caused what effect.
can I take RASPBERRY KETONE.. WITH THIS.. (lipozene)
Yaz, lipozene is basically just a fiber supplement. Im not aware of any research that combines it with raspberry ketones. That said there is more research on the active ingredient in lipozene than on raspberry ketones. Notice I said the active ingredient in lipozene -not lipozene itself.
See my review on raspberry ketones for more insights.
OH.. OK.. THANK YOU..
BUT IS IT.. YES I CAN TAKE IT.. OR NO I CAN’T TAKE.. (KETONE).. WITH LIPOZENE.. TY..
I HAVE PURCHASED LIPOZENE..
BUT WHAT I DON’T UNDERSTAND IS THIS………….
TAKE 2 CAPSULES 30 MIN BEFORE MEALS UP TO THREE TIMES PER DAY WITH AT LEAST 8OZ OF WATER..
(take what 3x per day) ?.. pills ?
i have 30 in a bottle..
when i take 2 it will be 15 because I’m doubling it..
and if its 3x per day.. than I will only have for a few days..
PLEASE.. LET ME KNOW THE CALCULATION OF THIS..
PLEASE & TY.. JOE..
YAZ, I take most supplement dosage recommendations with a big grain of salt and here’s why: Most supplements -lipozene included – have no published clinical proof on them. the research lipozene TV commercials boasts about is on the active ingredient in lipozene (glucomannan) – not lipozene itself. Since glucomannan is in lipozene, it should work the same, but until somebody does studies, I cant know this for sure.
When you wrote “take 2 capsules before meals up to 3x per day” I took that to mean 2 x 3 = 6 capsules per day! That said, as a rule, I advise people to not use the supplement recommended dosage instructions for at least the first week. I feel it safer to start with only 1 pill per day of a product for the first week to see what side effects you have and after that, slowly increase the amount.
I try not to advocate taking 2 different supplements at the same time because if you had side effects you would not know what caused it. Also, I personally dont even feel raspeberry ketones are needed. despite what you hear about it, I think its WAY OVER HYPED and probably would not work for most people. Remember its only got 2 mouse studies to show it works. your not a mouse! At least glucomannan has human studies.
Since there is no evidence that lipozene works better with raspberry ketones so I don’t think you need to combine them.
JOE.. THANK YOU..
SO MUCH..
I WILL FOLLOW.. YOUR INSTRUCTIONS..
VERY WELL APPRECIATED..
STAY TUNED.. 🙂
Ok so I tried lipozene and I lost weight but I think that was because of the explosive diarrhea I had for a week after taking it. In fact it made My husband had the same problem. I’m glad it’s working for some of you but I will never take it again!
Does the weight come back after you stop usimg this product?
Taylor, as a rule anytime people stop doing the thing that caused the weight loss and go back to what they did before they lost weight, there is a strong chance the weight comes back. This is true for anything, not just lipozene. On my personal site I listed 13 different things that might help also. Here is the link http://www.joe-cannon.com/what-weight-loss-supplements-work/
Here I go hope this product works!:) I run 5 miles 4 days a week and have 6kids wish me luck! This is a start. Would love to lose 25lbs:) Will stay intouch!
Heather, luck!! running 20 miles per week is fantastic!
Hi Joe,
I have lost 12 lbs in 6 weeks…& 2inches im very happy with this product thank u:)
Heather, great! I’m really happy for you 🙂
Hi my name is Michelle I order mine I am mother n I weight 200 n my height is 5’1 n I wear a size 2x but before I had a baby I was 100 pound n I was wear a size 6 when I get my order do I got to exercise to lose the weight
Michelle, any exercise you do will help you lose weight. Do what you can do. Even walking will help.
hey guys my name is kurt i’m an lpn. i’ve been battling weight loss all my life when i reached 405lbs last nov. i had had enough i was diabetic had high bp and suffered from sleep apnea. i was miserable. i changed my diet began to exercise just started caring about the rest of my life in general
i have lost 115lbs but that stubborn belly fat wont go away i found lipozene at my local wal mart for 19.98 for 2 bottles i’ve tried it before in the past and it does work but gave up on it because of the online price now that i’ve found it for an affordable price i’m giving it another shot because i had no side effects.
kurt, I hope it continues to help you and congratulations on losing 115 lbs!
Do not take this drug. It made me severly nauseated. I have thrown up all day and have not been able to hold anything down for 12 hours. I will never take again. I will flush them all next time i throw up again. D