Providing dietary supplements that contain ingredients that may turn up fat loss and help with energy levels may result in having healthier and happier customers. Dietary supplements in most health food stores post a better than 50-percent markup. The following is a basic primer on some commonly-used ingredients in weight-loss formulas, along with suggestions for intake and possible contraindications:
Caffeine
—While most commonly known for its ability to get folks up and moving in the morning, caffeine also is a powerful weight-loss ingredient. It serves as a diuretic and also increases heart rate and energy levels, which helps to boost metabolism. Many ingredients such as kola nut and guarana contain caffeine, but may not be labeled as such on a supplement label. However, for those avoiding caffeine, these should be pointed out.
L-Carnitine
—L-carnitine is the biologically active form of carnitine and is found in animal foods. In the body, L-carnitine transports fatty acids to the muscles for energy production. L-carnitine levels in muscles are increased through physical training and supplementation may help well-conditioned individuals resist fatigue and enhance exercise performance.
Creatine
—Creatine is a nutrient that combines three amino acids—arginine, glycine and methionine. It helps provide energy to the muscles by regenerating ATP from ADP. The more creatine in the muscle, therefore, the longer a person can train that muscle. This also helps the body to avoid relying on glycolis for energy production, which has lactic acid as a byproduct.
Creatine’s positive effects on weight loss are due to this energy-enhancing ability. Because muscle weighs more than fat, people taking creatine as part of a training program may not see pound differences, but likely will find their bodies more fit and toned and have more energy.
Energy Bars
Hiding behind those bright, flashy wrappings and gimmicky tag lines lies America’s answer to a power snack. Energy bars have become the epitome of modern culture, offering a convenient, quick fix of nutrients and a taste profile that can leave any sugar tooth satisfied. It’s no surprise then that energy bars have been one of the highest grossing categories within the natural foods market.
The natural products channel for energy bars experienced dollar sales of nearly $100 million in 2000. Six years later, natural food stores still comprise the bulk of sales; however, indoor tanning salons and spas also can cash in on the popularity of energy bars.
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