What are the best fat cutting supplements?

Hi Amazia,

The single best way to lose fat and maintain muscle (which helps you lose fat and keep the fat off) is to follow a high-protein diet and adjust your starchy and sugary carbs downward until you reach a level that delivers consistent fat loss. Whey protein is especially good for fat loss (see: http://fitnessinventor.com/articles/1191-whey-protein-a-true-miracle-food-part-3 ).

Diet is going to deliver 70-80% of your fat-loss results. For a brief but useful overview of how to adjust your diet for maximum fat loss, see: http://fitnessinventor.com/articles/1789-musclediet-six-pack-plan .

BCAAs are 3 of the 8 essential amino acids (EAAs). BCAAs include L-leucine, which has been shown to actually stimulate protein synthesis (muscle-building) in cells. BCAAs are also distinct in that they are the only amino acids that are substantially metabolized for energy within the muscle during exercise.

EAAs include the 3 BCAAs but also include the other amino acids that the body requires in the diet to be able to build muscle. Many people make the mistake of taking BCAAs when they should be taking EAAs before training or at other times.

L-glutamine is an amino acid that has been shown to boost growth hormone levels, increase glycogen levels in muscle and improve hydration but has never been shown to improve muscle recovery, muscle growth or performance. Despite this, many people swear by it as an effective amino acid supplement.

HMB has been shown in a few studies to increase muscle mass but the majority of studies show no benefit (except the ones that were done by the guy who owns the patent for it). It is a metabolite of leucine but there is no good evidence that it works better than taking leucine (on the contrary if anything - leucine works better).

Outside of these, you can get yourself a good fat burner.