Healthy Gut. Slimmer You. Those words are used to describe Plexus Slim, a very popular weight loss and blood sugar lowering supplement. It's been several years since I first reviewed Plexus Slim (The Pink Drink). In that time, the ingredients have changed a bit. In this Plexus Slim review, I'll compare the ingredients in the original formula to what it contains now and also review the science on its ingredients. Along the way, I'll decipher its key ingredients, and try to shed light on side effects too. I don't work for any supplement company so this is not an Ambassador review. Let's see if Plexus Slim is right for you. For additional info, see the original plexus Slim review and the reviews of Plexus Accelerator Plus, Plexus Boost and Plexus ProBio5 Joyome anti-wrinkle cream and Plexus Hunger Control
Plexus Slim Benefits
The Plexus website states the supplement works by providing the following benefits:
- Clinically demonstrated to help you lose weight*
- Promotes the growth of good gut microbes◊*
- Increases Lactobacillus by 365 times and Bifidobacterium by 290 times – contributing to overall health◊*
- Increases the metabolism-enhancing Akkermansia microbes by 250 times◊*
- Supports healthy glucose metabolism*
- Clinically studied XOS prebiotic
- Patent-pending formula
These are pretty interesting benefits but the * and ◊ next to some of the claims direct our attention to the bottom of the page where it says
- *“These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.”
- ♢ “The results of an in vitro human gut simulator study suggest that Slim’s formula may have several beneficial effects. Further research, including research conducted in humans, is needed to confirm these preliminary findings.” Basically, they are saying there's no human evidence for these claims.
What's Different In The New Formula
Let's now compare the original Plexus formula (from 2013) to the current ingredients:
| Plexus Slim Original Ingredients | Plexus Slim Current Ingredients |
| Chlorogenic acid | Chromium |
| Citrin K | Xylooligosaccharide |
| Alpha-lipoic acid | Green coffee bean extract |
| Oxypregnane steroidal glycoside | Garcinia Cambogia |
| Chromium (amino nicotinate GTF) | Alpha-lipoic acid |
| Mulberry fruit extract |
Comparing the original ingredients old and current ingredients, we see a few differences
1. Chromium has moved positions. It used to be the last ingredient in the proprietary blend. It appears at the very top of the ingredients list.
This may mean the new Plexus Slim formula has more chromium than it originally had. They also now tell us how much chromium Plexus Slim contains (200 micrograms). See the review of chromium and weight loss.
2. Both the old and new formula contain chromium nicotinate. This is a complex of both chromium and niacin. Chromium is often touted for its ability to help reduce blood sugar levels and while there is some evidence of this, not all studies find it works. For example, in this 2013 study chromium nicotinate did not help people with type 2 diabetes.
3. The ingredient originally called “citrin K” is now called by its more familiar name, garcinia cambogia. See the Garcinia Cambogia review.
4. The current ingredients now contain Xylooligosaccharide, green coffee bean, and Mulberry fruit extract.
5. Grape skin extract used to be in Plexus but no longer. I'm not sure if this makes a significant difference or not in how effective Plexus Slim might be. I was told (unconfirmed reports) this was because people were having allergic reactions to this ingredient.
Summary: Changes To New Formula
- Chromium is the first ingredient listed
- We are told how much chromium is in the new formula
- Added: Xylooligosaccharide, green coffee bean, and Mulberry fruit extract
- Grape skin extract is removed
- Hoodia is removed from the formula
- Garcinia cambogia now called by its more familiar name
Question for Ambassadors: why were grape seed extract and hoodia removed from plexus slim?
Plexus Slim Research
Clinical research specifically on Plexus Slim cannot be located. Neither the Plexus website, National Library of Medicine or ClinicalTrials.gov reveal any clinical studies. Some Plexus Ambassadors may cite research but those studies do not appear to be peer reviewed in medical journals. As such, I discount as being less clinically relevant as we cannot see the entire study and how it was conducted.
Plexus Slim Ingredients
Let's now summarize the of research for the main ingredients in the Pink Drink and see what the science says.
Chromium
The chromium in Plexus chromium polynicotinate. This is basically a form of chromium thought to be better absorbed. Each packet provides 200 micrograms of this mineral. Chromium is probably in this supplement to help reduce blood sugar levels. This makes sense. But, when it comes to weight loss, chromium is a dud. The vast majority of studies since the 1990s show chromium does not work
See the Chromium weight loss review for the evidence.
Xylooligosaccharide
Xylooligosaccharide (also called XOS) is basically long chains of the xylose sugar stuck together. Xylose is often used as a prebiotic. Prebiotics are the food probiotic bacteria eat. Xylose may be used as a way to bolster production of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium.
When it comes to gut health, the diversity of gut bacteria is important. the more different bacteria, the healthier experts say we are. Two ways to improve gut bacteria diversity is eating more fruits/vegetables and exercise.
Plexus Slim Blend (531 mg)
When it comes to Blends, companies do not have to tell us how much of each ingredient makes up the blend. But we know the first ingredient makes up the most of the blend, while the last ingredient listed makes up the least.
Each packet of plexus slim provides 531 mg of the following ingredients:
1. Green Coffee Bean Extract
Green coffee also goes by the name coffae robusta. Its active ingredient is often said to be an antioxidant called chlorogenic acid. The Plexus Slim label tells us each packet contains 50% chlorogenic acid. Green coffee is popular for weight loss but I remain skeptical.
The favorable research studies are small and there are not many of them. Also, the studies showing it works have used a supplement called Svetol which is not in Plexus Slim.
What makes green coffee controversial is one of the very best weight loss investigations was retracted after it was found to contain serious errors.
This is why green coffee remains a weight loss scam in my book until unbiased and well-designed studies are published.
2. Garcinia Cambogia
Garcinia cambogia, also known as hydroxy citric acid (HCA) is a popular weight loss supplement. When I did a deep dive into the garcina / weight loss research, I concluded it was at best a 50/50 shot at whether it worked or not. I saw just as many clinical studies showing it worked as didn't work.
Many of the studies though were small and had problems with how they were performed. As such, I don't believe anyone can say for sure if it's an effective weight loss aid.
And then there's the big controversy: Does garcinia cambogia cause liver failure? While I feel the risk is low, there is some evidence it might. While in many such reports, people were taking supplements containing many ingredients, we now have a report of liver failure in someone who only took garcinia cambogia. There is no reports of Plexus Slim causing liver problems or elevating liver enzymes.
See the Supplements and Liver Failure review.
3. Alpha Lipoic Acid
Plexus slim is touted to promote healthy glucose metabolism. Alapha lipoic acid is an ingredient which seems to do this. Multiple studies have shown Alpha Lipoic acid can improve the ability of insulin at reducing blood sugar levels. Amounts used in research are usually around 300 mg per day taken for several weeks. While we are not told how much alpha lipoic acid is in the Pink Drink, it's possible it may have close to this amount.
There is also some evidence alpha lipoic acid may help weight loss. Studies tend to use over 600-1000 mg. This is more than is in Plexus Slim.
Here's alpha lipoic acid on Amazon
4. Mulberry Fruit Extract
There are 2 types of mulberry – black and white. Plexus Slim uses white mulberry (Morus alba). Some evidence shows mulberry can reduce blood sugar levels in people with type II diabetes. Some studies use 1000 mg to 5000 mg a day to achieve this effect. Mulberry is also an antioxidant. Some evidence suggest it reduces free radical damage to insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas.
Because it's a food, mulberry likely has many active compounds which probably have multiple effects other than just blood sugar lowering.
Blood Sugar Lowering Ingredients
Here is a quick review of the ingredients in Plexus Slim which lower blood sugar
- Chromium
- Alpha-lipoic acid
- White mulberry
See above for specifics on each
Weight Loss Ingredients
Here's a quick review of the ingredients in Plexus Slim which might help weight loss
- Garcinia cambogia
Note. my own opinion is garcinia cambogia doesn't work but there are some studies saying I'm wrong. Im not listing green coffee bean until I see better quality studies on it.
What's The Key Ingredient
There is not just one active ingredient in Plexus Slim. Different ingredients do different things. Its worth noting many of the ingredients are likelly present because of their effects on lowering blood sugar levels. However, reduced blood sugar does not necessarily mean weight loss. When it comes to weight loss, I believe results will vary.
Where To Buy
So where can people buy Plexus Slim? Because the company has a multi-level marketing (MLM) component to it, it's sold in stores like Walmart, GNC, Vitamin Shoppe, Costco, Target, CVS, Walgreens, korger, Food Lion or RiteAid.
Rather, it can be purchased either from a Plexus Ambassador or directly from PlexusWorldWide.com, the official company website. When ordering Plexus the website, you first have to create an account. When you do, you don't have to provide information on the Plexus ambassador you heard about it from.
I'm not sure how I feel about that.
Because one does not have to provide details on ambassadors means the Plexus website is in competition with Plexus ambassadors for sales. To become a Plexus Ambassador, it costs $34.95 paid annually.
If you are using a Plexus ambassador, you can provide either their phone number or Plexus ID. If you do, then the ambassador will receive credit for your order – using an Ambassador does not add to the price of Plexus Slim.
Here Are There Supplements on Amazon
How Much Is Plexus Slim?
From the plexus website, if you purchase just 1 month of Slim, the cost is $87.95. Shipping and tax may also be added. There is also an autoship program where you'd receive supplements at regular intervals. Purchasing Plexus Slim this way is a little less expensive – $82.95. Shipping charges and tax may also be added.
Here are the prices of their other products:
- Plexus Block : $39.95 (+S/H)
- Plexus Accelerator +: 39.95 (+S/H)
- Plexus Boost: $39.95 (+S/H)
- Plexus 96 Chocolate $35.95 (+S/H)
- Plexus 96 Vanilla $35.95 (+S/H)
- Plexus X Factor $39.95 (+S/H)
- Plexus X Factor Plus: $ 39.95 (+S/H)
- Plexus X Factor Kids $ 34.95 (+S/H)
- Plexus VitalBiome $39.95 (+S/H)
- Plexus ProBio $39.95
- Plexus BioCleanse 120 ct $ 29.95 (+S/H)
- Plexus MegaX $39.95(+S/H)
- Plexus Nerve $47.95 (+S/H)
- Plexus Ease: $44.95 (+S/H)
- Plexus Edge $ 34.95 (+S/H)
- Plexus Ease Cream $$39.95 (+S/H)
- Plexus Body Cream $49.95 (+S/H)
- Plexus Brest Chek Kit $34.95 (+S/H)
These prices reflect if you purchased an item only once. There is a small discount when on the autoship program.
How Many Calories?
Each packet of Plexus Slim has 5 calories. This is an insignificant amount.
Plexus Slim And Gut Health
When Plexus Slim first came out, it was touted for weight loss. The idea of gut health is an evolution of not only the marketing but also the ingredients in the supplement. With the incorporation of the prebiotic, Xylooligosaccharide (XOS), the idea is now Plexus Slim is supposed to help weight loss by altering the composition of the microbiome (that is, better gut health).
While I'm sure XOS will alter the contents of the microbiome in some way, I don't know what effects this would lead to. Would it lead to better health? Would it mean weight loss would occur? I can't say although no clinical studies linking xylooligosaccharide to weight loss in humans could be located when this review was created.
While anything is possible, until Plexus-gut health studies are published, it's hard to know for sure what the benefits might be. It's worth remembering that eating fruits and veggies and exercise have been shown to improve gut health rather quickly.
Does It Have Caffeine?
Plexus Slim is probably pretty low in caffeine. The label says it has 2% natural caffeine. The caffeine probalby comes from the green coffee bean.
Is It Gluten Free?
Yes. Plexus Slim is gluten-free, vegan and non-GMO.
Is Plexus Slim FDA Approved?
The Food and Drug Administration does not approve supplements in the US. There is a law which regulates supplements (DSHEA) but it's often criticized for a number of reasons.
In 2014 PlexusWorldWide did receive a warning letter from the FDA over the language used to describe the benefits of their products Fast Relief ProBio 5 and BioCleanse. Basically the FDA believed the company made statements it should not have made. This sometimes happens with companies. When the FDA sees statements it disagrees with, it reaches out to companies and asks them to change their wording.
See the ProBio 5 Review for more on that supplement.
Plexus Slim Controversies
In 2013 the Australia government's Therapeutic Goods Administration (their FDA) noted Plexus Accelerator 3 day pack contained a banned ingredient called DMAA, which is a stimulant. See the Plexus Accelerator Plus review for more information.
In 2014, the Canadian government also called attention to DMAA as well.
DMAA is no longer found in Plexus supplements.
Is Plexus Doctor Recommended?
I've heard ambassadors say its recommended by medical doctors (MDs/ DOs) but I don't think I've ever encountered a physician who recommended it. That's not to say none do, but I've not met any. My original review has over 2400 testimonials and comments. I don't anyone leaving a comment was a doctor.
If you look at the comments there, you will see some nurses advocating Plexus. Some of them are also Ambassitors which some may say makes them biased. I won't make that call. I'll simply, say I prefer supplements with clinical evidence.
I can understand the challenges faced by doctors who try to get patients to lose weight and blood sugar. It's quite possible some may be OK with a patient trying Plexus Slim for a month or so to see what happens. I'm sure anything which motivates patients is welcomed.
I welcome any physician to leave a comment below about their experiences with this product (positive or not)
Plexus Ambassadors
Plexus Ambassitors (distributors) are those who sell Plexus supplements. These are often people who had a good experience and want to help others. Sometimes they may be people lured into the business with thoughts of making a lot of money.
An advantage going through an Ambassador is they may be able to offer personalized guidance with how to use the products. While I like this, Plexus Ambassadors may or may not have any nutrition background like college degrees or nutrition certifications. So, if you have a medical issue, the guidance you receive will often not be the same as from a doctor, pharmacist or dietitian.
If people have side effects, the solution is to not take another plexus supplement (or any supplement). The correct response -depending on the severity – is to stop taking the supplement and see if the symptoms improve. For very bad side effects, seeing a doctor is in order.
I bring this up not to slam Plexus Ambassitors but rather to help them better deal with side effects that people may bring up from time to time.
Plexus Slim Didn't Work
If you read the comments below, you'll notice some people saying the new Plexus formula does not work the same way as the old formula. Interestingly, when people report to their ambassadors that Plexus Slim didn't work for them, it appears some blame the person. I'm sure not all Ambassadors do this, but if the comments below are believed, some appear to.
I think that's the wrong way of doing this. I also believe its wrong to try to get people to experiment with another product like the Plexus probiotic supplement. (click to read review). That's my 2 cents. Take it for what it is.
Plexus Slim Research
Plexus Ambassadors often mention the supplement was originally was studied ―not for weight loss―but rather for its effects on reducing blood sugar. As proof of this, they cite a clinical trial done on 8 people with type 2 diabetes conducted between June and October 2008.
While the study does not appear to be peer reviewed, it does seem to show that people taking plexus slim had reduced blood sugar and body weight. When looking at the summary of this trial on the PS website, a few things occurred to me:
1. The study refers to these 8 people as “patients.” This makes me wonder if the people were confined to a hospital or clinic? If yes, this is not a real life test of plexus because most people won't be monitored for food intake the way people in hospitals /clinics might be. If anyone can address this question, I'd appreciate it.
2. The study only had 8 people. That’s not a lot of people.
3. The study doesn’t seem to be peer reviewed / published in a medical journal
4. The clinical study used the original plexus slim formula. Since the formula ingredients have been tweaked a bit since its inception, it's hard to know if the results would be relevant to the new formula.
Regardless as to whether the product was originally studied for its effects on blood sugar, there is no doubt that Plexus Slim is marked mostly for weight loss. As proof, the product website used to say this:
” Having trouble losing weight and keeping it off? You're not alone. But don't worry! Finally there is an all-natural, healthy solution to help you lose weight for the long term.”
Notice, there is no mention of blood sugar, only weight loss. In fact, on the benefits section above, notice “Clinically demonstrated to help you lose weight” is the #1 item listed. That said, if plexus slim helps weight loss (by getting people to eat less calories), then I'd expect blood sugar to be reduced also.
Who Makes Plexus Slim?
The company is called Plexus Worldwide, LLC. The address listed with the Better Business Bureau is 9145 E Pima Center Pkwy Scottsdale, AZ 85258-4627. An online search of this address reveals a corporate center. The former address of the company was 7440 E. Karen Dr. #400, Scottsdale, AZ 85260. The BBB states the business was started on Jan 1 2008.
The BBB gave Plexus World Wide a rating of “A+” when this review was created. This was interesting considering 63% of the reviews were negative. My guess is this high rating is based on the company responding to complaints filed with the BBB. See the BBB file for updates and more information.
There were no SiteJabber reviews for the company when this review was created. See the SiteJabber file for updates.
Contact Plexus Slim
The contact number is 480- 998-3490.
Plexus Slim Side Effects
In healthy people, I think this Plexus Slim is safe in the majorly of people who use this supplement. While there are many positive and negative online reviews, I believe in most people, there are no real dangers, espeically for those who are basically healthy. That said, here are some things to consider for those who may not be “healthy.” This list is not complete:
- Start with less than is recommended for the first seek to see how you react
- Stop taking plexus slim at least 2 weeks before having surgery
- Speak to your doctor first if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Speak to your pharmacist/ doctor if you take any prescription mediation
- Not intended for people under age 18
- Since it has some caffeine, don't take close to bedtime
- Plexus Slim may reduce blood sugar levels. This may be an issue for some diabetes
- Some reports link garcinia cambogia to liver problems and elevated liver enzymes
- Green coffee extract may reduce blood pressure
- Xylooligosaccharide (XOS) may have a laxative effect in high doses (4grams)
Chromium may reduce thyroid hormone levels when taken at the same time. Separate taking them by at least an hour to reduce this from occurring.
Some evidence suggests chromium may lead to kidney problems. But I think this is rare. I had to search back to 1998 to find a report I felt was relevant. To be safe, speak to your doctor if you have kidney problems before taking chromium supplements.
Some research suggests chlorogenic acid (an ingredient in green coffee) may raise homocysteine. High homocysteine levels are controversial as they may be linked to heart disease. See your doctor if your homocysteine is high for personalized recommendations on this matter.
Leave a comment below if you experienced anything I did not list here.
Plexus Slim Pro & Con
Here is a quick run down of what I liked and didn't like about this supplement. These are my opinions.Yours may be different:
| Pro | Con |
|---|---|
| Company has been in business many years | Expensive |
| Products guaranteed | No clinical research |
| Company responds to complaints | Over-the-top claims |
Does Plexus Slim Work?
I didn't try Plexus Slim and I don't personally know anyone who has tried it. I can only go by the research. Because of its ingredients, I'm fairly sure it will reduce blood sugar levels in some people. But as for weight loss, let's just say results will vary.
Heads up people!!!!!
Very important!!
Any supplement with Alpha Lipoic Acid in it is DANGEROUS!! Especially if you have amalgam (Mercury) fillings! ALA has a half life of 3 hours and should only be used in Safe chelation protocol (with no amalgams) look at Amalgam Illness: Diagnosis and Treatment by Andrew Hall Cutler Phd.
I had been using Plexus for a year and a half-stirring the mercury up (pulling more mercury from my teeth)-it has made me very sick and other former Plexus users I discovered on the Facebook group Andy Cutler Chelation: Safe Mercury and Detox Group.
Please head my warning!! I wish I could have read a warning like this before I started!
Look into this Joe Cannon!
Hi Suzie, thanks for the heads up on this. I did a quick search and saw some people discussing how alpha lipoic acid was bad if you had mercury fillings I didn’t see any clinical studies on the topic. I may have missed them. If you have seen anything, do let me know. I’d love to learn more about this.
Did you start to feel better when you stopped using Plexus?
Has anybody else seen anything on alpha lipoic supplements being bad if you have mercury fillings?
Think about this before joining PS, or any other MLM company.
OK, let’s start by imagining this: if you walk in a park, then you say, “Hi my name is X, and I’m from a MLM company.” to 100 people, researches suggest that the effects are mostly: one person will ask you how to join your company, 10 people will ask what’s your product, and the rest will leave you annoyed and with hostile mimic. If you don’t believe it you can try it for yourself. So, what’s wrong?
The answer is because MLM is scam-ful, fraud-y and swindling, is that true? However, I am not saying that all MLM companies are bad. I am saying that some of them are the worst, some are worse, and the rest are bad.
I cannot believe that ambassadors still share the graphic that shows nearly 85% of them make $417/yr. Keep in mind that does not include expenses that Ambassadors take on when they start. There are disclaimers that take that 85% down to $111/yr.
This same graphic goes on to state that the average annual commission of ALL ranks taken together is $1890/yr. The median income (2015) is $213. Folks, you can probably panhandle on the street corner and make more money.
Only .05% earn Diamond status. Think of that number – that’s not 1/2 of a percent. That’s .05 of 1%. Yet, these “diamonds” are held up as what you can become with Plexus. A bald-faced lie to entice usually overweight and depressed women to join Plexus and the money all goes to the top.
I laughed so hard the other day at a group of these twits who ventured out to Midland TX to spread the plague. One of the photos read: Full House!! You look behind them and there are empty seats and cranky looking faces of those who did show up to hear them blather on. Led by none other than the Double Diamond, who has had so much plastic surgery done on her face, she looks worse than when she wasn’t on Plexus. Truly sad.
I hate the back and forth hate Plexus or love it comments i see here 🙁 if it doesn’t work for you that’s fine. For me it has been a life changer ,and this article is a factual based comparison of the two products which is what i was looking for so thank you very much! I dont know if it is just me something else I’ve intraduced or that the new formula just doesn’t work as well FOR ME 🙁 before Plexus I had 3 to 4 bad life altering migrains a week.
Sugar levels pre diabeties, IBS,unbarible joint pain and stiffness . Trying plexus at first just to make my daughter happy lol i began to immediately feel a change. Not tired all the time ,not achey, losing weight, normal restroom visits 1x a day:) dr was blown away by blood work ALL levels dropped back to healthy ranges.
Most of all blessed with no migraine for a month! That continued for 3 more months Im beyond happy running n playing with my granddaughter. Plexus gave me my life back….
Then new formula was announced everyone so excited !!!how can it be any better?! Sadly after a month on new formula (I dont care for new flavor either:( a) Still feel much better all over BUT my migraines are coming back… I have had 2 migraines this week 🙁
Your article doesn’t sound like it is too much different and shouldn’t explain this. I guess I just wanted to see if im alone in thinking it doesn’t work as well for me? They no longer make the sweeter previous version to experiment with:( maybe i should peel some grapes n add the skin to my pink drink each morning lol again Thanks so much for this detailed comparison n everyone else let me know if you notice a dif for Better or Worse 🙂
Hi Becky, its my understanding that Plexus has changed the formula again – its different than what I have here. Stay tuned. I do plan on doing a review of the “new, new” plexus slim soon
Hi Becky…I have an unopened bag and an open bag (probably half full) of the old slim if you’d like to buy it. Once I became pregnant I stopped taking it (I know some people say it’s safe during pregnancy, but didn’t want to take any chances) I’ve never been a fan of the old slim taste and will try the new slim once baby comes.
Hi Becky,
I found your review when searching the web for “New Plexus Formula IBS”. I have struggled with severe IBS for years, did multiple test with my GI and had no luck. I began taking Plexus after I did research on my own to get some relief. It has helped me tremendously but as of recently with the new formula, I noticed a lot of my symptoms returning (Sever belly pains, gas, trips to the restroom before finishing dinner, urgency, and all of the other dreaded symptoms of IBS).
Not sure what has changed but just thought I would mention it. Also, there are a few packages left on Ebay that I looked at getting. Hope your migraines lessen.
Carissa,
Nothing in Plexus Slim has ever been tested and proven to remedy, cure, or improve IBS symptoms. It stands to reason that when you begin introducing supplements into your system, there is a period where you see “results” which end up fading. In this case, the fiber in Plexus Slim probably was the culprit, until your body figured it out and went back to bad symptoms.
I would caution you from taking anything with the Plexus name on it as well as any supplement in general. Nobody knows what exactly in Plexus products. They do not submit to quality control testing, have never divulged where they source their ingredients from, and will not disclose where they manufacture final products. You could potentially be ingesting something that causes symptoms to worsen or could cause other potential health issues.
Wow! Thank you for sharing Becky! I found this page for the very same reasons. I started taking the original Slim as a last resort to help my pain and fatigue fron rheumatoid arthritis and Fibro symptoms. Within a few weeks of taking the old I had my life back. I couldn’t believe the change.
I took it for a year before switching to the new formula and within two weeks I was slipping back into my old scary symptoms of heart palpitations, more pain, more fatigue…living in bed instead of enjoying life. I’m desperate to get the old formula, but live in Mexico and need friends to visit to get it here. They do still sell the old formula on the website. Or just call and ask.
But that still leaves me wondering what changed and worrying that the old formula won’t last forever and then what?
What changed? They removed banned products from it. Stuff that could potentially kill you. But hey, who cares about that, right?
It is my understanding that the idea with the Plexus products is gut health. When the gut is balanced it allows the body to function normally, which in turn helps with many ailments. Why is this not mentioned in the review?
Hi Melissa, I didn’t include gut health in this review, frankly because when I wrote it, plexus was not taking about gut health. The company has changed their tune since the product it was originally introduced. For example, even though I called this the review of the “new formula,” they have changed the formula again! First, the marketing was about weight loss and then it was about “wellness” and now from what you say, it’s about gut health.
If you read through the comments of this review and the “original plexus slim review, you can see the evolution of their marketing from the comments made by the ambassadors.
I do plan on writing a “new-new” plexus formula.
As you know (I liked your website BTW), the whole gut health arena is complicated and in its infancy (many companies dont even tell us the strain of probiotics they use). What we do know is diversity is a good thing. One of the best ways to improve gut flora diversity is to eat fiber. So, when it comes to overall gut health, eating a salad or a smoothie that has a variety of fruits/veggies/seeds etc is going to go a long to to promoting that.
I really do appreciate you leaving a comment and bringing this topic up. I’m going to check out your podcast too. Here’s a list of some podcasts I listen to
Any other questions about these or other exciting topics, just ask 🙂
Melissa,
I find it strange that you come on here and attempt to shill this “gut health” garbage that has been going on for a while. Plexus has no studies to back these claims up and none of their products have been tested by 3rd parties to determine whether or not the ingredients they claim are in them are actually in there.
Your FB page regarding holistics is admirable but I have to ask, when does someone who believes in that approach to health defend a company that has had numerous instances of using dangerous ingredients, instances of lead contamination, and has never submitted to any kind of quality control of their products? The only logical explanation is when there is some sort of financial benefit. Are you an Ambassador?
These Ambassadors talk gut health as if it is a simple subject. It is everything but simple. Not a doctor, but dealt with gut health in the pharmaceutical arena. There are too many bodily functions that can affect the gut. Folks, at least be schooled a bit before trying to educate others on gut health.
One of my ambassador friends today posted this about their Vital Biome product “Who wants to try a NEW probiotic that was specifically formulated to make you HAPPY?! ❤? Backed up by 279 scientific studies- this stuff is going to lower your stress on every level and improve your mood!!! It stabilizes stress hormones and promotes relaxation and improves your mood!!!”
Of course there are no links to any of those 279 studies backing it up. Because they don’t exist.
Plexus has always been a gut health company… also the reason grape seed extract is in probio5 is to kill Candida. (Bad gut bacteria)
Also your “critic” of probio5 making you lose weight? Its not for weightloss.. it’s a p robiotic. It’s to help maintain a healthy stomach, which will aid in digestion.. being able to help you break down the foods better.
Also if you take biocleanse your getting rid of all the bacteria and build up in your gut.. (even good bacteria such as probiotics) that’s why they are recommended together. This critic alone makes me not trust any of the others on this site. I actually came here to look up thrive and was interested too see what they had for plexus..
Hi Amanda, I respect your opinions however I don’t feel plexus has “always been a gut health company.” when plexus slim was introduced, there was no mention of gut health.
It’s a good point you bring up about altering gut health to help people digest food better. There is evidence that overweight people have gut bacteria that may be too good at digesting food.
The better they digest the food, the more calories they absorb. Skinny people, on the other hand might, have bacteria that are less efficient at breaking down food, absorbing fewer calories Here is NY Times review of the research on this:
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/06/health/gut-bacteria-from-thin-humans-can-slim-mice-down.html
So, if something could help us digest food better, would it lead to us gaining weight? honestly I have no idea. I just bring it up based on what you said.
From what Ive read, the best way to promote gut health is to eat fiber-containing foods. I think we need more study on probiotic supplements.
Thanks for sharing and here’s one of the Thrive reviews to help you with your research
http://supplementclarity.com/thrive-w-review/
The reason PS went from a weight loss company, to a body health company, then to a gut health company ,was because the former, with a new formulation was not effective. Sales suck with those messages. We will see what the gut health brings.
Not one of these conditions have any data, or clinical studies supporting them. Each time PS opens, or brings new ideas to market sales get a boost, the amb get excited, and the cycle continues. That’s how they are surviving. These AMB. will believe anything they are told, and don’t mind feeding their downline the crock.
Amanda Hall writes: “Plexus has always been a gut health company…”
So says an Ambassador who litters a FB page with everything Plexus tells you to. Plexus started with magical promises of being the “most all-natural way to lose weight”. In fact, it was “all about the weight loss”. When folks began to see that they weren’t losing weight due to a reformulation that took out harmful products, it became “all about the wellness” with new products being introduced. When that tide passed, it became “Plexus Freedom”, which was the whole “get as rich as the Double Diamond in McKinney” promise which fell flat due to limitations of an MLM (pyramid) system.
Gut health wasn’t even a talking point until about a year and a half ago. Ambassadors like Amanda were the ones who claimed that you had to take numerous products to get results, knowing it was nothing more than a ruse to sell more products. They don’t realize that bio-cleanse is nothing more than a laxative. When people complain about having to strap themselves to the toilet, they’re told to take Pro-bio. News flash: ingesting magnesium will basically prevent any nutrients or probiotics from doing their job. You’re basically crapping yourself skinny.
Amanda is one of those, who despite thousands of doctors telling pregnant mothers not to take supplements, posts shots of a pregnant mother and her “Plexus Pregnancy”. So keep in mind the special kind of crazy that Ambassadors are and any statements that she posts about these worthless products.
Amanda, Candida is not a bacteria, it is yeast. And almost no one has an overabundance of it. People who truly have candadiasis are very sick and usually end up hospitalized. It mostly occurs in people who are immunocompromised. The spit test that Plexus loves to have people do is pure bunk!
Everyone’s saliva will do certain things depending on how thick their mucous is that day (from allergies, colds, dehydration, etc). It does not mean they have yeast. I do believe probiotics could have some benefits, but Plexus products have never been tested to see if they even actually contain what they say they do.
And no studies have been peer reviewed and published on any Plexus products. So for them to claim their Vital Biome can cure all the things the ambassadors claim is misleading and illegal and can get them banned by the FDA.
Joe, you have put so many man hours into providing us with knowledge about the Plexus products. And, I as one truly appreciate your hard work especially when they change the formulation each week.
Are you going to have enough strength to provide info on some of the new products. The important ones. I look forward to that when you get time.
Thanks again!
Hi Pete, thanks so much! Yes its is frustrating when they change the product ingredients. Plexus is on my list to look at again. Stay tuned 🙂
Just stand by. The top Ambassadors have been away on their junket in Florida this past week. They’ve attended “training” in which they will get new talking points on how to sell this garbage. We’ll probably see the new product hyped, which is the kid’s vitamin product. There’s no telling what they will claim it does.
Just asking. Why didn’t you cover the alpha lipoic acid or the xylooligosaccharide?
Hi Rebecca, most likely because Alpha lipoic acid is a trendy antioxidant and I dont feel it has any effect on weight loss. As for xylooligosaccharide, I dont remember seeing it when I reviewed Plexus. My guess they have – yet again -changed the formula. That said xylooligosaccharide is just a sugar that comes from xylose. its also called a “pre-biotic.” bacteria inside of us eat pre-biotics for energy. Plexus slim – the “latest” incarnation of it -is on my list of things to look at again so stay tuned.
This company is down right dangerous. If the product was so wonderful, why did they change it AGAIN? Because the products were CAUSING gut issues. Polydextrose is a synthetic fiber that can induce ballbladder attacks in people. Think about synthetic fiber in your liver? What might that do long term to gut health? Then the company says, “You need our new probiotics!” Seems so well designed to mex
I know of people whose gut health was so messed up on the slim drink, they had multiple gall bladder atracks and even one woman who had to have heart valves replaced as calcium was deposited in improper places as the gut health declined.
When the gut isn’t healthy, this can happen. Load it with synthetics as see more implications.
I think the whole company should be shut down. It’s certainly one I don’t trust and the world class wellness professionals I know would never touch their products.
I love typos that make you laugh. I’m actually sick and tired of helping point people to the fact they didn’t have gallbladder issues before the product, so a laugh is good.
I also noticed the switch to “you need the next 12 products” to undo the GB attacks that polydextrose has been linked to.
My Facebook feed shows a lot of Plexus posts because my former coworker is one of their most prized Diamonds, and she has dragged many of my other former coworkers in to this scam. So far she is the only one making a 6 figure salary, the rest of them are still toiling away as nurses.
Anyway, this is what I saw posted today. This makes me so angry. These are nurses! They should know better. If these studies were so amazing, why are they not published anywhere and why has it not been publicized outside of Plexus marketing materials.
One of our newest products, Plexus VitalBiome, has been CLINICALLY PROVEN to work on anxiety and stress!
But just how does it do that?
Here’s the answer, directly from the scientist’s mouth who created VitalBiome (and also had a hand in improving Plexus Slim):
“VitalBiome raises the levels of the 8 most beneficial strains of probiotics in your microbiome. The reformulated Slim will help those colonize and grow. VitalBiome is amazing when it comes to changing how you handle stress and how happy you are. The clinical research lab was blown away by the test results. They knew we were going to see big increases in the numbers but when you added in our Patent pending formula Plexus Slim, that’s what hit it out of the park.
Take VitalBiome once a day when you drink Slim because of the XOS prebiotic in Slim.” 60 day MBG on all products!”
Lola,
There is no limit to what ambassadors will say. Plexus has NEVER tested any of their products, despite any claims of studies that they make. An in-house experiment that is not peer-reviewed or published is not a clinical trial, no matter how they try to spin it.
And one other thing, if you have to take some sort of untested supplement to “handle stress” or be happy, you’re an addict. You’re simply ingesting something other than an illegal narcotic in an attempt to mask an underlying issue that won’t be solved by Plexus.
Michael, you are so right. They will say anything. Today the very successful Diamond ambassador that is my former coworker posted that the Vital Biome is a “real life chill pill”. It is amazing to me that they think probiotics are a cure for depression and anxiety. I don’t understand how the FDA is not getting more involved and shutting them down.
They are still marketing their products as cures for diseases. That has to be illegal. The picture of the bottle says “reduces feelings of stress and improves mood” right under the name. Isn’t that marketing it as a medicine?
Lola
PS will continue to use illegal tactics to sell their trash until they get caught AGAIN! Not a doctor, but many years in the pharmaceutical arena. The conditions of stress, and mood, could be construed as disease states, and should follow FDA, and FTC regulations. They would fit in the anti-anxiety, or the anti-depression area.
But, if caught, and shut down, PS would follow an old MLM tactic. They move around the corner, change their staff, and began selling some junk again. There again, this is made possible through the lax regulations of MLM.
No. Feelings of sadness is not a medical diagnosis. Depression is. Therefore they are not claiming to cure depression. I’ve seen too much as a nurse (almost nurse practitioner) to not believe in these products. Doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dietitians are all on board. Since money doesn’t come overnight clearly there is something keeping this many medical PROFESSIONALS involved. We definitely aren’t crazy or stupid.
Sheree, just curious, can you name some of these medical professionals?
Sheree
In my opinion, sadness can very well be a result of depression,. There again, I am not a healthcare professional, but neither are you. I will search for an answer, and be back.
Sheree,
I just browsed over your Facebook and in no way should you misrepresent yourself as a medical professional. You should also let people know that you are a Plexus ambassador who has made claims like “Who has hot flashes? Who wants them gone?!” You are nothing more than a run-of-the-mill ambassador who doesn’t know anything about the products you are selling.
If you were a medical professional as you claim, then things like higenamine, yerba mate, and multiple other dangerous ingredients would have told you all you need to know about Plexus. Were you aware of the lawsuit against them involving lead in their products? The ban over DMAA in their products? Are you aware of the insanely high amounts of chromium in their products and the possible side effects that can occur?
You claim “We definitely aren’t crazy or stupid.” but would you consider parents giving these untested and unregulated products to children for the purpose of curing medical conditions such as ADHD or other auto-immune disorders a “smart” thing to do?
Please be upfront and honest about who you really are instead of attempting to mislead people and have them believe you have some sort of medical insight into this poison that is being sold.
Sheree, I have been a nurse for 25 years and I am finished with my Master’s degree in July. These products have no scientific evidence behind them at all. It surprises me that well educated, intelligent medical personnel get behind these products and sell them to others.
It actually angers me that they convince non-medically trained people that these products are healthy and proven to help all kinds of health conditions. Doctors, nurses, and pharmacists who sell this are worse than just lay people who become ambassadors I feel, because the people buying from them believe they know the science behind it and the health benefits, but they do not.
They are just rehashing the information Plexus is feeding them with no evidence to back it up. The Protein powder was found to contain lead last year. Clearly production standards are lacking.
Lola, congrats on getting your Masters degree! Very cool! I did not know that about plexus protein powder and lead.
Hi Lola:
Congrats on the masters degree. I also have a masters degree in human nutrition, 20 years in the field and an educator on the undergraduate and graduate college levels. As an educator, I instruct students to use websites with a .edu, and .gov (like Pubmed.gov) as reputable sources of evidence-based information.
One of the issues with dietary supplements is they usually contain levels of nutrients that are NOT at therapeutic levels when compared to research that has shown a positive benefit in clinical research.
Also, when looking at research, looking to see if the research was sponsored by the manufacturing company or if the researchers had any financial ties to the company representing the product if key. If so, the results can be skewed.
I have been approached over and over again from many MLM company ambassadors to sell their products because of my knowledge. However, for the lack of peer-reviewed scientific data, lack of therapeutic levels of active ingredients and the excessive cost of purchasing the product(s), I have turned all of them down.
I promote whole foods, clinically-researched dietary supplements /botanicals that actually have therapeutic results and include stress reduction technique, movement and mindful eating practices. It takes a whole approach to wellness and not simply a single product.
And also remember that when clients/patients or customers are taking medications especially blood thinners, diabetes drugs or any type of heart medications, you have to be SO careful to understand any drug/nutrient interactions or their health can be in jeopardy.
Hope that this helps understand what is at stake here.