Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) is a plant that is sometimes used as a natural remedy for a variety of health concerns, including weight loss. Some people believe that bitter orange may help with weight loss by increasing metabolism and reducing appetite. However, the effectiveness of bitter orange for weight loss is not well established, and more research is needed to confirm these effects.
Bitter orange contains a compound called synephrine, which is similar in structure to ephedrine, a substance that was once commonly used for weight loss. Ephedrine was later found to have serious side effects and has since been banned in many countries. However, some people believe that synephrine is a safer alternative to ephedrine and may have similar weight loss benefits.
Some studies have suggested that bitter orange may help with weight loss by increasing metabolism and reducing appetite. A review of six clinical trials found that bitter orange and synephrine-containing supplements may lead to modest weight loss in the short term, but the long-term effects are not well understood. However, other studies have found no significant weight loss benefits of bitter orange supplements.
One study published in the International Journal of Medical Sciences found that a supplement containing bitter orange, caffeine, and St. John's wort led to significant weight loss in overweight and obese individuals. However, it's worth noting that this study was small and of short duration, and more research is needed to confirm these results.
Another study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that bitter orange extract may help reduce body fat in overweight individuals. However, the study was conducted on rats, not humans, so the results may not be directly applicable to humans.
It's worth noting that bitter orange can have side effects, including increased heart rate and blood pressure, and may interact with certain medications. It is not recommended for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. If you are considering using bitter orange for weight loss, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider first.
Overall, while some studies have suggested that bitter orange may help with weight loss, the evidence is not conclusive. More research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and risks of using bitter orange for weight loss. If you are looking to lose weight, it's important to focus on a balanced diet and regular exercise, as these are the most effective and safest ways to achieve long-term weight loss.
