Although most people understand that the only effective way to lose weight is though a combination of diet and exercise, the lure of the "quick fix" or that little pill that can magically melt the pounds away, is hard to resist. According to a survey published in the Journal of the American Medial Association, 7 percent of American adults use non-prescription weight-loss supplements, with the highest percentage being young women who are considered to be obese.

It seems that no matter where you turn, advertisements for weight loss products abound. Grocery stores, health food stores, drugstores - even Wal-Mart - offer shelves full of various herbal and other so-called natural products that are touted as a sure way to loss those extra pounds. Sadly, the only thing that most people lose when they buy these products is their money.

Most doctors agree that these supplements do little if anything to help people lose weight. Some warn that certain supplements may be outright dangerous, while others believe that there may be some benefit to taking supplements when combined with diet and exercise. So what's the scoop? Are any of these products beneficial? Here's a look at several of the most popular weight loss supplements currently on the market.

Chromium Picolinate
Chromium works in combination with insulin, helping cells to absorb glucose and ultimately release energy. Pundits claim that this factor actually assists in metabolizing fat, and turning the body's sugar into energy. In reality, there is no evidence that chromium has any affect at all on weight loss.

Chromium is found naturally in meat, whole grains, fruits, vegetables and certain oils.

Garcinia Cambogia
Garcinia Cambogia is derived from a fruit most commonly found in India and Asia. The rind contains hydroxycitric acid, which is similar to citric acid in oranges and grapefruits. The hydroxycitric acid, of HCA for short, is believed to block the conversion of starches and sugar into fats. It is also thought to elevate seratonin levels in the brain, thus suppressing the appetite.

Although there have been some studies that would indicate the effectiveness of this supplement, more research is needed before a definitive conclusion can be made.

Chitosan
Chitosan is actually derived from chitin, a substance that is found in the shells of crustaceans such as crabs, shrimp, and lobsters. Supporters claim that chitosan binds fats in the stomach preventing their digestion and absorption. While chitosan has been shown to decrease the absorption of fat, a person would have to take massive amounts of it for it to be effective in weight loss.

Researcher do believe that chitosan may reduce cholesterol levels, however, and are concentrating on this area of study rather than on the effect of the supplement on weight loss.

Glucomannan
Glucomannan comes from the root of the Konnayku plant and contains a great deal of natural fiber. It is thought to absorb toxins, binding them before they are actually absorbed into the bloodstream. As such, it is thought to suppress the appetite, actually expanding in the stomach.

Researchers have found that this supplement may in fact aid in weight reduction, especially among obese patients. This substance is also effective in reducing constipation due to its high fiber content.

Green Tea
Green tea seems to be the most popular of all natural supplements and is being touted as effective in treating everything from obesity to PMS! All-natural green tea contains epigallocatechin gallate, a substance that may indeed help suppress the appetite. But as in with other supplements, a person would have to consume gallons of tea in order to realize any significant weight loss.

Green tea is available both as a drink and in capsule form, and while researchers are still studying its effectiveness in weight control, some doctors will recommend that patients substitute green tea for coffee and soda.

Conclusion
Before embarking on any weight loss program or taking any supplement, it is essential to check with your doctor. These supplements can have side effects, which could be harmful especially when combined with other medications or supplements. Again, there is no substitute for a healthy diet and exercise program, and relying too much on any supplement can lead to disappointment and frustration.
About the Author
Johann Erickson is a contributing writer for sites such as Triton Nutrition. Please include an active link to our site if you'd like to reprint this article.