Update 8/21/19 The Plexus Slim Accelerator Plus supplement (Accelerator +) is said to have “Synergistic benefits help increase the effectiveness of Plexus Slim.” The product is also claimed to “increase energy”, “suppress appetite” and “speed up weight loss and fat inches.” Sounds good, but does it work? Is it safe? Accelerator Plus is a new formula that is significantly different from the original Accelerator formula. It contains new ingredients. By the end of this review, you will have a better understanding of whether Accelerator Plus is right for you.
Who Makes Accelerator Plus?
The Accelerator Plus supplement is a product of Plexus WorldWide Inc. which is located in Arizona. I cover the company and other things in my review of Plexus Slim so do read that for additional information. When this review was created, the Better Business Bureau gives Plexus WorldWide a rating of A+. See the BBB file for updates and more information.
Plexus Accelerator+ Ingredients
According to the bottle, Plexus Slim Accelerator Plus has the following ingredients:
| Niacin (Niacinamide) | 20 mg 100% DV |
| Vitamin B6 | 30 mg 1500% DV |
| Folic acid | 400 mcg (100% DV) |
| Vitamin B12 | 500 mcg 8334% DV |
| Calcium (Calcium glycinate) | 16 mg 2% DV |
| Chromium (Chromium picolinate) | 150 mg 125% DV |
| Proprietary blend, composed of: | 950 mg |
| Yerba mate leaf extract | |
| Higenamine | |
| Hordenine | |
| Hawthorne leaf extract | |
| 5 HTP | |
| Green tea leaf extract |
mg=milligrams. mcg=micrograms
DV=Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie per day diet.
Other ingredients listed
- Hemicellulose (vegetable capsule)
- Rice flower
- Magnesium stearate
- Titanium dioxide
Previously, the product also contained NuFlow which was used to stabilize the powder in the Accelerator and prevent it from clumping. NuFlow is no longer listed.
Accelerator Plus Research
I searched the Plexus Slim website for research on the Accelerator but did not find any. The product website has stated that:
“When taken with Plexus Slim, the Accelerator + helps speed up weight loss or helps people overcome weight plateaus.”
But, they offer no proof that the combination of these products provides any added benefits over Plexus Slim alone. If we go back to the In the non-published clinical trial on Plexus Slim, it appears that the 8 people in the trial did not use the Accelerator but rather only Plexus Slim alone.
Tip. For more on the Plexus Slim clinical trial, see my review of Plexus Slim New Formula.
So, where is the proof that the Accelerator Plus adds any benefits to Plexus Slim alone?
Since the Accelerator Plus supplement appears to have no published peer-reviewed studies on it, let's now analyze the product by its ingredients and see what we can learn. I will show the weight loss research on each ingredient ―with an emphasis on the Accelerator's proprietary blend ―and in this way, hopefully, shed some light on what might be going on.
The Vitamins and Minerals
The Accelerator Plus supplement contains these vitamins and minerals:
I don’t believe any of these ingredients contributes significantly to the product. That said, I do want to touch on a couple of the ingredients because they show up a lot in other supplements.
1. Niacin
The form of niacin used in Accelerator Plus is niacinamide. Some people report flushing of the face after taking niacin but niacinamide should not do this.
Niacinamide is getting very sexy in the anti-aging world. See the Nicotinimide Rriboside review for more insights.
2. Vitamin B12
The Accelerator Plus supplement has 500 mcg of this vitamin which is 8334% more than people need to be healthy. In some circles, vitamin B12 is thought to help people lose weight ― despite any proof that it does. For more info see my review on Vitamin B12 and weight loss.
Vitamin B12 might also be found in weight loss supplements because some medications that treat diabetes can deplete B12 levels. Since people who take weight loss products may have type II diabetes and take these types of medications, on the surface, it might seem logical to add vitamin B12. That said since we store vitamin B12, it often a couple of years for a deficiency to show up.
While the lack of B12 may make people feel tired (due to anemia), vitamin B12 supplements do not boost energy levels in those who are not lacking in this nutrient.
2. Chromium Picolinate
Chromium is often used in weight loss supplements because of some evidence that it might help insulin work better, and in this way help reduce blood sugar levels. This is actually somewhat controversial because not all research supports that chromium works. For example, in this 2012 study, insulin was less efficient (in other words, insulin didn’t work as well) in those who received chromium picolinate.
For more information, see my review of Chromium Picolinate and Weight loss.
Accelerator Plus Proprietary Blend
I will list the relevant weight loss research on the ingredients in the proprietary blend in order as they appear on the Accelerator Plus label. This is because ingredients are often listed in order of abundance. In other words, since yerba mate is the first ingredient in the list, the Accelerator Plus likely contains the most of this and the least green tea extract, since this ingredient is listed last.
Yerba Mate
Its scientific name is Ilex paraguariensis. In some studies, it's also called “yerba mate.” I searched the national library of medicine for:
- “Yerba mate and weight loss”
Most of the studies I saw involved giving yerba mate to lab rats or mice. Since I'm not a big fan of mice or rat studies as the sole basis for the use of supplements, I'll only briefly list them here:
What about people? I didn’t see any human studies showing that herba mate helping people lose weight. What's up with that? Herba mate contains caffeine and this may be why it's in Accelerator Plus.
In this 2001 study titled, Weight loss and delayed gastric emptying following a South American herbal preparation in overweight patients, a solution containing yerba mate, guarana and Damiana, was noted to help people lose weight. But this study isn't relevant to our discussion because it involved the use of other herbs that are not found in Accelerator Plus.
Higenamine
This is a phytochemical that is also a heart stimulant. It is also sometimes called Norcoclaurine. Searching for clinical databases for:
- Higenamine and weight loss
- Higenamine obesity
- Higenamine metabolism
does not show any studies showing this compound works.
In one investigation, researchers noted that a supplement that contained higenamine, given to 16 healthy people, increased calorie burning and the amount of fat being used for fuel. While this is an interesting study, the supplement used also contained caffeine and Yohimbe. Since Accelerator Plus does not contain Yohimbe, this study is not relevant.
Tip. For more on yohimbe, see my review of the male sex supplement Androzene.
Another reason why I don’t feel the study is relevant is that the people tested were “healthy” and in their 20s. What about people who are not healthy and older?
Hordenine
Hordenine is also a phytochemical extract. It's derived from barley. It scientific name is Hordeum vulgare. Hordenine is a stimulant. Technically, compounds like this are called sympathomimetic because they mimic the effects of adrenaline. This means hordenine seems to have some stimulant properties. In an attempt to determine if hordenine helped weight loss, I searched clinical databases for:
- Hordenine obesity
- Hordenine weight loss
- Hordeum vulgare weight loss
- Hordeum vulgare obesity
I found no studies showing if hordenine helped weight loss in humans or lab animals. Granted, lack of evidence does not necessarily mean something doesn’t work, but it makes me wonder if hordenine was chosen to be an ingredient in Accelerator Plus specifically because of its alleged stimulant properties?
See this for more insights on hordenine
Hawthorne
The scientific name for this herb is Crataegus monogyna. Accelerator Plus actually lists “hawthorn leaf extract” as an ingredient, but they don’t tell us what extract of the hawthorn leaf they use. This makes evaluating the herb difficult because different extract might have different effects.
Hawthorn is said to make the heart pump better and because of this, the herb was used in some settings to help, a serious medical condition called congestive heart failure. How much it helps is open to debate. In one study, hawthorn appeared to make heart problems worse.
Warning: Do not self medicate with hawthorn if you have heart problems. Speak to your doctor first. See the side effects section for more information on hawthorn.
While there is no evidence that hawthorn helps weight loss, because of its effects on heart pumping, I speculate the idea behind why this herb is in Accelerator Plus is for this reason: A heart that pumps more blood also pumps more oxygen and nutrients to tissues and organs, in the hopes that this will give people more energy. This is my guess given the premise of what Accelerator Plus is supposed to do.
I've seen hawthorn in other supplements I've looked at before such as:
- Zi Xiu Tang (weight loss supplement)
- Slim Trim U (weight loss supplement)
- Avalowerin (blood pressure supplement)
I've also written a review of Hawthorn as well.
5-HTP
The scientific name for this is 5-hydroxytryptophan. As the name suggests, 5 HTP is derived from tryptophan, a non-essential amino acid that we naturally make every day. 5 HTP helps us make a brain chemical called serotonin. Elevated serotonin levels appear to improve mood as well as reduce appetite.
In fact, some weight loss drugs such as Belviq, and the now banned drug, sibutramine, function by raising serotonin levels.
There is some evidence that 5 HTP might help weight loss in people. In a small 1998 study titled Effects of oral 5-hydroxy-tryptophan on energy intake and macronutrient selection in non-insulin dependent diabetic patients, 750 mg of 5HTP a day for 2 weeks, lost weight and reduced their intake of carbs and fats.
These results were similar to a small 1992 study involving 20 overweight women, where 900 mg of 5 HTP for 12 weeks resulted in weight loss and carb intake.
In a 1989 study titled, The effects of oral 5-hydroxytryptophan administration on feeding behavior in obese adult female subjects, 19 women were given 5 HTP or a placebo for five weeks. In this study 5 HTP caused the women to lose weight and eat less food. The amount of 5 HTP used in this study was 8 mg per kilogram of body weight.
Tip. A kilogram is 2.2 pounds. So, for a 200 pound person in this study, this would equal 200 / 2.2 =91 kg and 91 kg x 8 mg = 727 mg per day.
How much 5HTP is in Accelerator Plus? They don’t tell us but I'm guessing it is less than used in these three studies. This because the entire proprietary blend of all the ingredients in Accelerator Plus only adds up to 950 mg, and 5HTP is near the bottom of the ingredients list. This says to me that there is probably little 5HTP. Maybe less would work just as well, I don’t know?
Green Tea Leaf Extract
Green tea contains many compounds and we are not told what extract of the green tea leaf Accelerator Plus contains. Could the extract used by caffeine? Green tea also contains other compounds such as theobromine and Theophylline which have some structural similarities to caffeine.
See the supplements and liver damage review.
Accelerator Plus Stimulant Ingredients:
- Herba mate
- Higenamine
- Hordenine (maybe)
- Caffeine (if it contains caffeine)
Summary of Ingredient Actions
Looking at the ingredients in the proprietary blend as a whole, they seem to fall into two categories:
- Those that act as stimulants
- Those that might raise serotonin levels
This is analogous to how some weight loss drugs work are supposed to work. That said, how effective the combination of ingredients in Accelerator Plus would be, I can't say since there doesn’t appear to be any published research on the product.
Ingredients With Evidence
Based on the research, it appears that 5 HTP has the most human evidence that it might help some people lose weight. That's not to say 5 HTP is a slam dunk because there aren't a lot of studies, but there is more in support of 5 HTP than the other ingredients.
Theoretically, is possible that weight loss benefits might be greater with the combination of ingredients in Accelerator Plus but without proof, it's hard to say.
Accelerator Plus And Plexus Slim: Better Together?
On the product website, the claim was made that Plexus Accelerator Plus has “Synergistic benefits help increase the effectiveness of Plexus Slim.” But the company provides no proof that this is true. Even in the clinical study used to tout the effectiveness of Plexus Slim, there is no mention of any Accelerator used.
Theoretically, if the Plexus Accelerator plus does what it's touted to do, there may be an enhanced effect, but until somebody tests the combination against Plexus Slim alone, it's anyone's guess.
Accelerator Plus vs. The Old Accelerator
Remember, Accelerator Plus is the new version of Plexus Accelerator. I cover the ingredients in the original Plexus Accelerator, in my review of Plexus Slim, so read that for additional information, but here is a quick side-by-side comparison of the old Accelerator vs. the new Plexus Accelerator Plus for those who were curious:
|
Accelerator Plus ingredients |
Old Accelerator formula |
| Niacin (Niacinamide) | Calcium |
| Vitamin B6 | Magnesium |
| Vitamin B12 | Dark chocolate |
| Calcium | Natural caffeine |
| Chromium picolinate | Green tea extract |
| Yerba mate leaf extract | Vanadium chelate |
| Higenamine | B-Phenylethylamine HCl |
| Hordenine | Gerana X* |
| Hawthorne | |
| 5 HTP | |
| Green tea leaf extract | |
*See my review of Plexus Slim for more about the ingredient called Gerana X
Comparing both old and new products side-by-side, it appears that the only ingredients that the Accelerator + has in common with the old formula are:
- Green tea
- Calcium
Buy Accelerator+
Plexus Accelerator is not available in stores like Target, Walmart, Costco, CVS, Walgreens or Rite Aid. It can only be purchased by Plexus Ambassitors or on the Plexus website.
How Much Is Accelerator+?
The supplement costs $39.95 for a one month supply. This price is valid if you are only ordering for a single month. If you go on auto-shipments, the price is $33.95.
Here is Plexus supplements on Amazon
Accelerator Plus Side Effects
I'm not a fan of stimulant-based weight loss supplements. I think the risks outweigh the benefits. I feel the same way about stimulant weight loss drugs too. If you are have experienced any side effects from Accelerator Plus please leave a comment so others can benefit.
Here are some things to consider when taking this supplement. This list is not complete:
- If you have any problems with your heart, blood pressure, kidneys or liver, speak to your doctor first. Show them the ingredients. If they are not familiar with the ingredients, show them to a pharmacist or dietitian.
- If you take ANY medications, speak to your doctor, pharmacist or dietitian first.
- Stop taking at least 2 weeks before having surgery
- The product may cause irregular heart beating
- Don't use if you take any blood thinner medications
- Don't take if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
Since Yerba mate contains caffeine, it might increase blood pressure in some people. In a 2013 review of Yerba mate and cancer research studies titled Maté consumption and the risk of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: a meta-analysis, researchers noted that consumption of yerba mate was associated with cancer of the esophagus.
There is some evidence that hordenine might cause a false positive test result for opiate use. Because hordenine can have a stimulating effect, theoretically, it might increase heart rate and blood pressure, although I can't find any evidence that it does. See the Kratom review for more insights.
Some research suggests smokers who use yerba mate may be at a greater risk of cancer than non-smokers. Would capsules that contained yerba mate for short periods of time do the same thing? This is unknown.
Higenamine can accelerate heart rate, and as far as I can tell, it has not been adequately tested in humans for safety.
The Plexus Slim website has said this about the Accelerator Plus:
Warnings: Plexus Worldwide, Inc. products are not intended for expectant or nursing mothers. If you have a heart condition, high blood pressure or any other cardiovascular condition, please consult with a physician before taking this product. Not intended for children under the age of 18. Avoid taking Plexus Worldwide, Inc. products with cold medicines containing pseudoephedrine, ephedrine, PPA, or products containing high amounts of caffeine. Before starting this or any other supplementation, consult a physician first. If unpleasant effects occur, discontinue use.
Given the ingredients in the product, I think these cautions are appropriate. Here is a shortlist of theoretical issues that occurred to me as I was writing this review.
Hawthorn can interact with high blood pressure medications. I believe people who have:
- Heart problems
- Blood pressure problems
- Kidney problems
- Liver problems
or who take medications for these health issues, should speak to their doctor before taking hawthorn or supplements that contain this herb. Since many of those who take this Plexus Slim supplement may be overweight, it's possible they may have some of these health problems.
Some people have reported heart palpitations and dizziness after taking the hawthorn. Hawthorn can also interact with many types of medications such as those used to treat high blood pressure. Because Plexus Slim does not tell us the hawthorn extract they use, or how much is in the Accelerator Plus, it's impossible to know what side effects ―if any ―people might experience.
Because 5 HTP can raise serotonin levels, theoretically it might interact with antidepressant medications that also raise serotonin. This combination might ―in theory ―make serotonin levels go too high and cause a serious condition called serotonin syndrome. Symptoms of this condition can include but are not limited to:
- Rapid heart rate
- Elevated blood pressure
- Vomiting
- Muscle twitching
I can't discuss 5 HTP without mentioning Eosinophilia–myalgia syndrome (EMS), which is a very rare disorder characterized by debilitating muscle pain and high levels of immune cells called eosinophils. This disorder was big news in the late 1980s because it resulted in the deaths of over 30 people. All of these people were taking the amino acid, tryptophan.
While it is still debatable what caused EMS ―tryptophan itself or a contamination product in the tryptophan ―I mention this because there is speculation that 5 HTP itself may also raise the risk of EMS. Given how many people have taken 5 HTP over the years, I think the risk ―if it really exists ―is pretty low. See the EMS Network website for more information.
Does Accelerator Plus Work?
I can't find any good proof that the Plexus Accelerator plus raises the metabolic rate in humans or that it causes extra calorie burning or weight loss. If you read the comments below, take note that some say Accelerator Plus doesn't work. Interestingly some say the same thing about the new Plexus Slim formula also.
Here are Plexus Supplements on Amazon
I did a one week trial of Plexis Slim and Accelerator. I experienced headaches and insomnia almost immediately. Ambassadors mentioned to take separately, Accelerator after Slim and with breakfast. Might have been a good thing to mention BEFORE starting. On day 4, I began to break out in a rash. For two days I treated it as poison ivy, even though we were very confused because I never had a reaction to poison ivy before and it was not very itchy.
Finished trial and began to research “Plexus rash” and Candida die off. I was beginning to think it either worked miraculously or I was allergic to some component. Rash and swelling spread for more days, closing my right eye. Was taking tons of supplements and activated charcoal.
Sent my pictures through various Plexus higher ups, all denying it could be what they had seen as Plexus rash- too severe, too wide spread, and too soon. Only one lady said yes and I should continue, or course.
Joined a few gut health groups asking if it could be Candida die off- too severe, too wide spread, and without dietary changes unlikely.
We had a holiday weekend and I just today, one week after finishing the trial but still having bumps emerge, got in to see my kinesiologist who does muscle testing. Tested negative for poison ivy and Plexus Slim.
Tested positive for Plexus Accelerator. Adrenal poisoning and I am now doing a detox protocol. He had never heard of Plexus before. Use with caution.
Cheryl, Im very sorry to hear that happened to you. While Ive heard of others saying they broke out in hives etc, I’ve never heard it specifically called the “Plexus Rash” before. I will do some research on that. The Accelerator is not a product I’d recommend. Its got too many stimulants for my taste.
This sounds like something that needs to be reported (maybe FDA, etc?) It would not surprise me if this was caused by an ingredient not listed on the Plexus label. They have never disclosed where they source their ingredients nor where their products are manufactured. As with a majority of supplements, undisclosed ingredients end up being tossed in due to lack of oversight and regulations in manufacturing facilities.
first, i am not an ambassador but I do use the product. The ambassadors are only giving the information provided to them by Plexus,so please don’t insult them or call them liars, unless some are putting more stuff out there. You can always verify the information they give you by calling (480) 998-3490.
As far as addicts, it depends on how each person feels. I take mine two weeks on and two weeks off, I can tell the difference when I’m off of it. Now the product was never intended for weight loss, though weight loss can be a benefit. Plexus specifically states that is not for weight loss.
Now if ambassadors are stating that report them. Now, plexus helped my mom go from insulin to pills to now a half pill a day and has lost over 60 pounds but it helped her get energy she dint have before. Her mood is better as well.
As for me it has help me with my mood and energy. Because I now have energy and mood is better I’m exercising which will help me reach my weight loss goal. So, I say “don’t knock it until you have fully and heartily giving it a 30 day try”. I have been on it 6 months now and I am content.
Gabriela, if the plexus accelerator was not supposed to be for weight loss then what is it supposed to be “accelerating” ?
Alright “Gabriela”, let’s go ahead an deconstruct all of this. First, you say “first, i am not an ambassador but I do use the product”. What we know from history is that anyone who comes in here with that first line of defense is in fact, an active ambassador.
You go on to say “The ambassadors are only giving the information provided to them by Plexus,so please don’t insult them or call them liars, unless some are putting more stuff out there.” Ma’am, you really need to do some research here. Plexus has a clause in their ambassador contract that specifically states that no Ambassador may make claims that the company has not authorized. I challenge you to find where Plexus has ever authorized information claiming that their products cure auto-immune disorders, treat conditions such as ADHD, or are safe for breastfeeding mothers. Yet, on Facebook and other social media, ambassadors make those claims in addition to multitudes of others.
“Now the product was never intended for weight loss, though weight loss can be a benefit. Plexus specifically states that is not for weight loss.” This is about the 20th time I have explained this but here we go again. When Plexus came out, it was pitched directly as a weight loss product. The countless numbers of before/after photos were accompanied by the slogan “the most natural way to lose weight”. When people figured out the stuff didn’t work, Plexus introduced Accelerator and it was pitched as the fastest way to jump start weight loss. When that fell flat, then the narrative changed to “its not about the weight loss, its about the wellness”. Then the wave of other products came fast and furious (Bio-Cleanse, Boost, Pro-Bio, etc.) People figured out the game and then the narrative changed to “Plexus Freedom”, touting Plexus as a way to get rich. The only reason that Plexus is shying away from the weight loss narrative is because they have exhausted that line of bull and have to convince rubes that somehow their products are miraculous in another way.
“Now if ambassadors are stating that report them.” Plexus doesn’t care. As long as sales are made they will hide behind the provision in their contract that states ambassadors are not employees or representatives of the company. Any lawsuit comes along and they will throw that ambassador under the bus and help push it over them.
“As for me it has help me with my mood and energy. Because I now have energy and mood is better I’m exercising which will help me reach my weight loss goal.” When you have to rely on a chemical for mood and energy, there is something else wrong. It truly is no different from an addict and don’t try to convince us that Plexus is “all natural” and somehow safe. That term has no regulated criteria to make it true and Plexus has never disclosed where they source their ingredients. They have never subjected their products to quality control or testing. If you feel fine with ingesting things like that, then by all means, proceed. Please don’t spread misinformation to others and prey on their desperation to sell this garbage.
The plexus reps always say “clinical studies” but they never site them. To my knowledge plexus has never had third party impartial testing of any of its products. But if you listen to their reps they all come off as sounding like nutritionists or doctors.
It’s a scam. A hoax. Literally a pyramid scheme only. Grab some vitamins at your pharmacy and drink more water. You will have more $ in your pocket and you will feel better. (That is all free common sense advice).
Yet, amazingly one can go on the clinicaltrials.gov website and there is absolutely no record of any clinical trials of Plexus products. We all know that Plexus ambassadors are liars who will use whatever unregulated buzz words that they believe will move their garbage.
Plexus did give a few details about this mysterious “clinical study” and the results were embarrassing. Not that any ambassador did some basic math before spouting off about it but it showed that the average loss was just about .75 of a pound per week. The study is not peer-reviewed and there are no details about controls, etc. We all know there are none.
These ambassador folks can be summed up as nothing more than common addicts. I saw one post on FB that exclaimed “I can’t go a day without my Slim!” That’s an addict, people. These Plexus minions will do and say anything to sell it and make others believe it “works”.
I’m taking the accelerator for a three weeks now, two every morning. I haven’t noticed any weight loss. I have ADHD, I’m not medicated for, and oddly, this supplement seems to be helpful in my focus at work. Side effects: Gas. Lots of gas. So, I probably will not be getting more. If it worked for weight loss, I’d gladly suffer the gas! My ambassador says it really should only be taken One or two months at a time, then a break from it.
Hi Tamara, Thanks for sharing your experiences. For what it’s worth I have not heard one should take the Accelerator for 2 months and then take a break, in order for weight loss to occur.
Ask your ambassador what she knows about Higenamine and Yerba Mate. If they paint a rosy picture of those 2 products, then you know you’re dealing with a twit who can only parrot what they are told at an Ambassador meeting. You’re basically ingesting an unregulated stimulant into your system, which does nothing more than artificially increase your heart rate. How anybody can be OK with that is beyond me.
Thank you for all of the us useful information! I loved the read. I am an all-natural mama, so it’s awesome to read research like yours!
Thanks Courtney, I’m happy to help 🙂
I drank the Plexus-Aid for a whole year. In that time I took the tri-plex and accelerator. I did not loose any weight, I actually gained almost 10 pounds. The accelerator started making me jittery and causing my heart to race. I also tried the Block, if you want a laxative go ahead, be my guest. The same with the cleanse, holy cow!!
I have to agree with the research here, there is none, and a company that will not disclose where it is manufactured has to have something to hide. Since the director of research and development has close ties to China, I would say it is a safe bet that is where there production facility is. Who knows what is really in these products.
I read the lawsuit regarding lead and it terrified me. I have been ingesting this garbage for a year and got other people to buy in. No more, I am done and will tell everyone I know to back away from it. If you need a supplement buy from a reputable company with a lot of scientific research and studies to back it. The only people who continue to push this are the upper level ambassadors who are making lots of money from us downline ambassadors.
Also, the cost is ridiculous if you don’t have enough people under you to cover the cost.
I am doing just the “Pink Drink” and I love the flavor of it, I also seem to have more energy and do not have any jitters or side effects so far from just the drink alone. I have only been using it for about a week now and have not tried any of the other products yet.
Hi Sandi, thanks for sharing and I hope it helps you.
Took the 2 Accelarator pills today for the first time. Feel jittery and my heartrate is up. Will be returning it.
You need to eat prior to taking the product or it can make you feel jittery. It is not recommended for those who have heart issues. Also if your water intake is not substantial, that too could cause a negative reaction.
Wendy,
Perhaps it’s that Beth’s body is reacting to the stimulants that do nothing other than jack her heart rate up. The human body was not created to ingest this kind of garbage, regardless of how much food or water one takes in.
Oh, and the body was not meant to take in lead, either. But Plexus put a little bit of that in their products as well. What would be your recommendation there? Eat and drink more before taking it?
Were you able to settle that complain against Plexus? Google is letting me down.
I also have been taking Slim and the accelerator. I also experienced rapid heart rate, weakness, nausea and shakiness. I consulted with my distributor who informed me I needed to eat prior to taking it and make sure not to drink any other caffeine and drink half my body weight in water. I did all of these things and still had the same results. Even worse… for over 2 hours my heart rate was elevating off and on to over 113bpm at resting.
I’ve decided to cease taking these as I don’t feel it’s healthy for my heart. I am still however taking just the plexus slim and have not experienced any negative side affects from it thus far 8 days in but also have not seen any weight loss yet either.
The instructions say to take the drink/accelerator combo 30 minutes BEFORE eating. Which is it??
Hi Beth. You can also take the Accelerator at two seperate times. I like taking one capsule with my slim drink in the morning and one in the afternoon with my lunch. I have never felt jittery taking it that way. Hope that helps!
Or she can just not take it at all and have no side effects or exposing herself to dangerous stimulants.
I was rushed to the hospital by the internist that I work for after one dose of Plexus with dangerously high blood pressure. You are putting yourself at risk for a stroke. Is it worth it?
You should report this to a health agency – other people are at risk from this garbage.
So sad that you are misinforming people that these life changing products are garbage.
We all know that everyone’s body is different and will react differently to certain products. Plexus products as a whole are changing lives and by you telling people they are garbage YOU are putting them at risk to continue dealing with health issues that Plexus may could help with.
Maybe the Accelerator isn’t the right fit for some people but I wholeheartedly believe that you wont find a better multivitamin than XFactor or a better probiotic than Probio5. There is not a product in existence that compares to the Plexus Slim and what it has done for mine and so many of my loved ones migraines.
I urge you to do your research with an open mind and heart instead of going in with the mindset to automatically disprove them. Plexus is the real deal. They have grown 16,000% in 3 years and have less that a 1% return rate. That wouldn’t be possible if the products did not work.
Jennifer Williams writes:
“So sad that you are misinforming people that these life changing products are garbage.”
Is it more or less sad than ambassadors making unsubstantiated claims that Plexus products cure diseases or illnesses?
“We all know that everyone’s body is different and will react differently to certain products. Plexus products as a whole are changing lives and by you telling people they are garbage YOU are putting them at risk to continue dealing with health issues that Plexus may could help with. ”
I see. So urging people to stop using tested medications in lieu of taking an unregulated supplement that has harmful ingredients in it is not putting people at risk? I agree with you on one thing, that these products are changing lives. People ingesting high levels of chromium, yerba mate, higenamine, laxatives, etc. are definitely going to be experiencing some life changes down the road – and not for the better.
“Maybe the Accelerator isn’t the right fit for some people but I wholeheartedly believe that you wont find a better multivitamin than XFactor or a better probiotic than Probio5.”
Yeah, the accelerator, boost, edge, etc. – all of these are unregulated stimulants that have no testing done on them. I guess if you want to know what you’re putting in your body or don’t care for manipulating your heart rate via a chemical, this stuff isn’t a “right fit”.
Time an again I hear ambassadors such as yourself tout the vitamin and probiotic. Plexus products don’t make the cut on any clinical test of vitamins and probiotics. They are both marginal at best and neither of them have undergone any clinical tests, quality control tests, or head-to-head tests against other products. Please quit touting them as better than another product on the market when there is no such proof.
“There is not a product in existence that compares to the Plexus Slim and what it has done for mine and so many of my loved ones migraines.”
Oh, the old nebulous migraine cure. See, you’re violating your ambassador contract with this kind of a claim. Nothing in Plexus cures migraines, other than the water you mix it in. Please stop spreading falsehoods about the product being able to cure this affliction.
“I urge you to do your research with an open mind and heart instead of going in with the mindset to automatically disprove them. Plexus is the real deal.”
You’re a little too late. I’ve done tons of research. Both here and elsewhere. I’ve discovered things like the lawsuit against Plexus for lead contamination. The effects of high chromium consumption. The bans in Canada and Australia due to DMAA. The dangers of their Block product for diabetics, whom ambassadors target. The lack of any clinical testing or disclosure of where their products are manufactured. The countless BBB complaints against the company. The warning letter from the FDA. You’re right. They are the real deal…
“They have grown 16,000% in 3 years and have less that a 1% return rate. That wouldn’t be possible if the products did not work.”
Herbalife? Mona Vie? Same story as Plexus. And I wouldn’t be touting the growth of this company – they are selling you a line of bull by not including the dropoff numbers of new ambassadors who quit after they start losing money the first 3 months. But your upline won’t be honest with you. Go back and tell them you came here to defend this poison. They’ll tell you how brave you are and have some great words of wisdom for you. Then they’ll enjoy a trip to Hawaii on your ambassador sign-up fee and sales. Not a one of these products “work” other than to keep people thinking it does and buying more and more.
Glad to see some sceptics out there
I have a friend who sells plexus. As a nutritionist, I have done my own research ie. Ingredients, complaints, and looked for published clinical research. Finding not much that is valid and the secretive position of the company
This product scares the heck out of me. So many people without having proper check ups and knowing the actual state of their health will take these products amd may suffer medical emergencies. When I told this to an ambassador they were quite put out. The brainwashing machine..selling the dream..and the lies..is alive and healthy. Please do complete research yourselves before believing any company that (hides) their ingredients due to fear of competition..
Jennifer
16,000% growth rate over 3yrs. That would be fantastic if only true. Sorry, it’s not. This is just another smoke screen PS uses to draw more recruits in order to separate them from their pocketbooks.
Growth, as in MLM, is an illusion. Here is why:
Growth, in MLM terms, means not enlargement of a customer base but rather the “replacement” of a customer base. Every several years, each MLM’s entire so-called sales force and whatever “customers” they may have quit and never return, after losing money. They must be entirely replaced.
Growth, therefore means recruiting more people than the number who quit year after year. Those that quit, don’t come back. This is carried out using the extraordinary claim about “unlimited income” and “business opportunity.”
Jennifer, you are being “brainwashed”!
I started Plexus Slim on March 20, 2016. After about a week I noticed all joint aches and muscle spasms were gone! I sleep better and have lots of energy. My sugar cravings are gone and my appetite has been cut down significantly.
I added the accelerator to it about a week later and it raised my BP. I am on BP meds but it is not controlling my BP. I stopped the accelerator 3 days ago but my BP is still elevated. Not sure what’s going on but it has me scared for sure. I want to stick with this and lose weight but don’t know what to do.
Hi Cheryl, why don’t you try this. Stop into your doctors office today and get your BP checked. Lets make sure your BP gizmo is giving you the right readings. It probably is but lets make sure. Its also an opportunity to speak to a nurse or a doctor about what’s going on. That alone, might calm you down a bit. BP is a funny thing, just being anxious about something can make it go up.
Let us all know later today how you are doing.
Cheryl writes:
“Not sure what’s going on…”
Cheryl, you’re ingesting a dangerous stimulant. Your body is trying to tell you to stop. Don’t know which ambassador sold you on this stuff but I’ll bet their pitch told you about how this stuff is “all natural”, etc. Do your research and then dump all this Plexus stuff down the drain.
Hi Joe, I have been on the accelerator for one month now and could not be more impressed. I have not experienced any negative cardiovascular or mood side-affect. I am currently prescribed 150mg Effexor once daily and 1mg Klonopin as needed (military service connected PTSD panic attacks) I still take the Effexor daily as i am not qualified to ween myself off these drugs.
It is my fill intent to have the Psychiatrist begin weening me off the Effexor so i can tell whether or not the Accelerator is working or not. Please feel free to contact me for more details on my personal case study 😉
Plexus Products Used Currently:
“Tri-plex”: Pro-bio5, Cleanse, SLIM
Ease capsules
Accelerator
All products are used as directed.
Disclaimer. I signed up on day 1 solely for the wholesale shipping opportunity. it has turned into a rather successful business for me so since i have continued working the business since I have had great all around successes with the before-mentioned products. I have written this review in complete honesty and have removed any vested business interest from my product review. I would be more than happy to talk about my experiences with anyone but have elected not to do so on this forum as to maintain my credibility.
Hi Matt, thanks for sharing and I’m glad you are getting some benefits from it. I’m also glad your PS business is doing well also. I also think its wise to ween yourself off your meds in conjunction with your dr so smart move.
Matt
Thank you for serving our country! Good luck to you, and the PS products.
Matt,
Be sure to tell your clients about the exposure to lead with Plexus products.
http://oag.ca.gov/system/files/prop65/complaints/2015-00285C4059.pdf?
I was taking the Accelerator tablets a couple of years ago and was fine. However when the new formula came out, I found that after taking 1 tablet, 15-20 minutes later my heart rate became accelerated to the point of me shaking. I stopped taking them and only started again a few weeks ago, however the same thing happens.
I am now to frightened to take it anymore. In your research did you find out what the ingredient change was from the old tablets 2013 to the new formula that came out approx. 2014
Hi Ester, both the accelerator and accelerator plus contained a lot of stimulants which may be the cause of what you experienced. I cant tell you which specific ingredient caused those results. My opinion is that all stimulant-weight loss supplements carry side effects and I dont believe in them. Here is a link to weight loss products that have some evidence that they work
http://www.joe-cannon.com/what-weight-loss-supplements-work/ This link goes to my personal website. I hope this helps.
I took accelerator for one week . I do not recommend it . It is scary. The first time taking it I got dizzy and shaky , that was with taking 2 pills as it is recommended on the bottle. I opted to take just one pill in the morning with breakfast. This did not help much.
I would still feel a little weird after taking them. I decided to try taking two pills again , and I got a very bad reaction. My heart was pounding really hard, as if I had been running . My heart continued like this for about 10 minutes. I tried my best to remain calm , I ate some sugary fruit , and drank water.
Eventually my heart went back to normal rate. If these pills can cause your heart rate to go up like that unexpectedly , that is dangerous.
Danielle, really sorry that happened to you. I’m sure that was very scary.
I’ve been taking Plexus Slim since the end of February 2015. No weight lost thru the end of May. I started taking the Accelerator at the end of May, starting out with just one then increased to 2. I don’t take them every morning, maybe 5 times a week. I have not noticed any adverse reactions to Accelerator. I originally started out taking the Bio Cleanse and eventually had to stop as I was having bowel movements every time I went to the bathroom and was just uncomfortable on the back side all the time. Turns out I was taking too many but I just have not had a desire to try them again. I’ve also been taking the ProBio5 at night, usually 2 but sometimes 3 pills.
I’ve lost 6 pounds this month. This is after starting the Accelerator and trying the protein shakes, the P96. I love the smoothies in the morning. I can add my Plexus Slim to the smoothie along with a full serving of fruit. Unfortunately they are out of the P96 so I will have to switch back to drinking the Plexus Slim on it’s own. I can’t say I really like the taste, but I can tolerate it.
Positive uses of Plexus: My blood sugar has decreased and I am beginning to crave healthy foods more. I am a stress eater and I have lots of stress in my life, hence I eat too much refined sugar. My sweet intake has finally gone down. This is supposed to be a benefit from Plexus, and for now I will give it the credit. (Note: I have had my blood sugar tested. I need to find my last blood results and compare them to this year’s, but I’m pretty sure the numbers went down, but I still need to verify. Last blood test they wanted to do more extensive testing since my blood sugar was high, this year it was a little high but not enough to warrant additional testing.)
Negative uses of Plexus: Low energy. My job is labor intensive (tax accountant) so after April 15 I thought I was just low on energy due to the long hours and my body trying to recover. I was tired the entire month of May and into June. I am now only beginning to feel more normal. Supposedly the Plexus products are supposed to kill excess candida in my system and one side effect of the die off is fatigue. I plan to do more research on this but I am hoping if this is the case, I’m past the worst.
I did sign up to be a Plexus ambassador but only for convenience of ordering. I have no intention of selling it to others unless I can give a personal testimony. After reading these reviews, I’ve decided to quit taking the Accelerator and ProBio5 after my supply has been depleted. There are some other products (Young Living) that I want to try to help with my energy and overall health that my friends have had positive personal experiences with.
Plexus tells you to drink a lot of water. I’ve heard this habit alone can help you lose weight. I’ve not done very well with drinking the amount recommended and I wonder if that’s why I’ve not been losing weight.
I really appreciate the review of the Plexus products here. Thanks for doing so much research Joe!
Hi Betty, I hope your blood tests come back as better. From what you said I would not be surprised if they are better. Are you dong any exercise – even walking – that can help with the stress (I can imagine the stress accountants go through!). Definitely drink water. Aim for about 1/2 of your body weight in oz per day spread out during the day. That might also help your stress eating too.
I’m on day 2 of taking PS and PS Accelerator+… I have bottomed out to the point of almost falling asleep at my desk both days around 2/2:30 in the afternoon. I’m going to continue my personal trial of the supplements to see if it lessens or goes away.
Abi, are you eating enough calories? I know when we go on a weight loss journey, we sometimes drastically cut back on calories. This may be why you are getting so tired. Not sure if that’s the issue but I thought I’d toss it out to you. Just my two cents but I really don’t recommend the Accelerator. Slow and steady weight loss is what’s important -not accelerated weight loss.
Please read the comments if you already have not done so.
Joe, thanks for the concern! I have been eating enough, yes. In fact, in the two weeks I have been using PS and its companions, I have gained six pounds. I do believe I’ll be returning the products this week.
My problem with the product is why would you pay 80 $ a month for something that you can do with just sisters changes that are at no cost ? How do people claim to get healthy and healed if they did nothing to change what they put into their bodies and causing their disease in the first place ? I will never believe any product that claims you can keep doing what you did and all the sudden get healthy and slim. It ‘a a lie , plain and simple.
Chris, your questions represent sane and logical thinking. The people who purchase this product are not on that same plane. Whether by desperation or ignorance, they simply disregard the fact that the human body cannot gain fitness via supplements. That requires exercise. A muscle will never develop, no matter how much protein you ingest, if you don’t put it under load.
You will not become aerobically fit, no matter how many pills or powders you take, unless you engage in sustained exercise. Ingesting a stimulant and appetite suppressant is in no way gaining fitness or becoming “healthy”. In fact, you are exposing your body to potential health problems and in a roundabout way, becoming a drug addict.
All of these testimonials you see claiming things are from those who have a financial interest in signing up people underneath them. This is no magical product – we don’t know where it is made and we don’t have assurances of its quality. Those who take it will bear the consequences of their actions down the line. Whether its the Higenamine or Yerba Mate that eventually causes a health issue, they will have regrets.
Been interested in this product and want to follow the conversation.
Tina, welcome 🙂
Fantastic article – very unbiased and informative. I do want to share that I have to be very careful about my caffeine intake while I’m taking the Accelerator as I get very jittery and nervous. Yesterday morning I took 2 of the pills in addition to a having small cup of coffee and I was really not feeling well by early afternoon. Lesson learned.
Stacey, thanks for saying that! Yes do be careful with caffeine if you are taking the Accelerator. your FB profile wasnt working when I clicked on it but do feel free to post it again with any other comments you have. Do keep me posted on your progress or if you have any questions 🙂
I just took one Plexus Accelerator with breakfast. Within a half-hour my heart starting beating out of my chest. I felt nauseous and my hands got shaky and numb. My heartrate was over 150bpm. I am sitting trying to get my heartrate down. This stuff is scary.
Stephanie, please don’t take it again. It’s not worth it. I wish everybody would stop taking the accelerator and other stimulants. I wish Plexus would stop selling stimulants too. If plexus really was as great as people say, no other product should be needed.
I definitely won’t! I guess I was thinking it was very natural and safe. I called the nurseline at our local hospital and they wanted me to come in. I was feeling a bit better so I just stayed home and took a nap. It took over two hours for my heart rate to normalize. Now I just feel completely worn out. I will be returning the products. Lesson learned.
Stephanie I’m glad you are ok.
Joe, since Plexus “reformulated” Accelerator to the Plus version, have their been any subsequent changes to their ingredients?
Michael, Ive been meaning to update my review with the new formula and I apologize for not doing it sooner. Honestly I’m not sure about any other changes so if anyone has info please do list it. Ive actually gotten tried of trying to keep up with how they change things. They do it more than I’d like to see.