Forskolin is a compound found in the roots of the Indian coleus plant (Coleus forskohlii), which belongs to the mint family. For centuries, this plant has been used in traditional herbal medicine to treat various ailments and conditions. Forskolin has gained attention in recent years for its potential health benefits, including weight loss. It is believed to promote the production of hormone-sensitive lipase, an enzyme involved in the breakdown of stored fats in the body.
Generally speaking most of the studies that have been conducted on coleus forskohlii have shown limited and minimal results, however, there are a few studies that have shown positive, which we'll look into in the below article, although even some of these aren't particularly in favor of the supplement.
As a general rule of thumb we mark this as one of the less effective weight loss supplement ingredients.
The Mechanism Proposed For Coleus Forskohlii Weight Loss
Before diving into the specifics of forskolin, it is important to understand how weight loss supplements work. These supplements are designed to promote weight loss through various mechanisms, such as reducing nutrient absorption, increasing fat breakdown, boosting energy expenditure, and reducing hunger levels.
Some supplements inhibit enzymes responsible for nutrient digestion, thereby reducing the absorption of fats and carbohydrates. Others increase the breakdown of fats in the body or prevent the formation of new fat cells. Certain supplements can also boost energy expenditure by increasing the body's resting metabolic rate. Additionally, some supplements help reduce hunger by increasing feelings of fullness and decreasing appetite.
The Science Behind Forskolin and Weight Loss
While forskolin has been the subject of numerous studies investigating its effects on fat metabolism, most of the research has been conducted in test tubes or on animals. Therefore, it is crucial to interpret the results with caution as they may not directly translate to humans. Human studies on forskolin's effects on weight loss are relatively limited, making it challenging to draw definitive conclusions.
One study conducted on men with overweight or obesity found that forskolin supplementation led to a significant decrease in body fat percentage and fat mass compared to a placebo group. However, there were no significant differences in body weight between the two groups. The reductions in waist and hip circumference observed in both groups were attributed to the calorie restriction rather than the forskolin supplementation.
Another study suggested that forskolin may promote fat loss while preserving muscle mass. The study found that forskolin supplementation resulted in increased free testosterone levels, which can stimulate the release of fat from fat cells and promote an increase in muscle mass. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings and determine the long-term effects of forskolin on weight loss.
Other Potential Health Benefits of Forskolin
In addition to its potential effects on weight loss, forskolin has been investigated for its potential health benefits in other areas. It has been found to have possible effects on insulin resistance, blood pressure, and intraocular pressure.
Research suggests that forskolin may help reduce fasting blood insulin levels and improve insulin resistance, which could be beneficial for individuals with metabolic disorders such as diabetes. Additionally, forskolin has been reported to lower high blood pressure by promoting the relaxation of blood vessels. This effect can improve blood circulation and potentially reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, forskolin has shown potential in lowering high pressure within the eyeball, making it a possible treatment for glaucoma.
Dosage and Forskolin Side Effects
The typical dosage of forskolin is 10-25 mg of Coleus forskohlii extract (10% forskolin) twice per day. It is important to note that while forskolin is generally considered safe and well-tolerated, some individuals may experience gastrointestinal side effects such as diarrhea. This side effect is believed to be a result of increased stomach acid production, which can lead to increased bowel movements and loose stools. However, these symptoms are usually mild and tend to resolve within a few weeks of use.
It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, including forskolin. They can provide personalized guidance based on your individual health status and potential interactions with any medications you may be taking.
Overall Forskolin Efficacy for Weight Loss
Generally speaking Forskolin only appears in lower quality quality fat burner or weight loss supplements, such as burn evolved. The evidence is rather spoty by comparison to things like caffeine or glucomannan.
