Weight loss gummies have become increasingly popular, promising a convenient way to burn fat, suppress appetite, and support overall weight management. Among these, Goli gummies, particularly their apple cider vinegar (ACV) and ashwagandha varieties, have gained significant attention. However, it's crucial to examine the scientific evidence behind these claims and understand the potential benefits and risks associated with these supplements.
Apple Cider Vinegar Gummies: What Does the Science Say?
Many weight loss gummies feature apple cider vinegar (ACV) as a primary ingredient. Proponents suggest that ACV can increase fat metabolism and promote feelings of fullness. Apple cider vinegar is made by covering crushed apples with water and waiting for the fermentation process to happen. Bacteria then converts the resulting ethanol into acetic acid. Studies in humans and mice suggest the acetic acid in vinegar can improve metabolism and help prevent fat deposits.
While some small studies suggest that ACV may have promise as a weight-loss aid, the evidence is far from conclusive. One research review indicated that individuals with obesity who consumed ACV daily for 12 weeks experienced a modest weight reduction of 1.6 kilograms. However, within four weeks of discontinuing the vinegar, their weight and waist circumference returned to their pre-study levels. Researchers have noted the limitations of existing human trials and emphasized the need for more comprehensive research.
Drinking apple cider vinegar for weight loss seems far-fetched. Apple cider vinegar isn't likely to cause weight loss. Research hasn't proved that this fermented juice made from crushed apples helps people slim down. Some people claim that apple cider vinegar has many healthy effects, such as weight loss. But little research exists to support this claim. Experts haven't found meaningful weight loss or long-term hunger control with use of apple cider vinegar. And many of the studies of apple cider vinegar and weight loss have been small or lacking in other ways. Some small studies suggest that apple cider vinegar may have promise as a weight-loss aid. Most people can use commercial apple cider vinegar safely in small amounts. Some studies suggest that it's okay to have up to two tablespoons a day. Research shows that people have used it safely for up to 12 weeks.
A recent study followed 39 participants assigned to either a restricted calorie diet with ACV or a restricted calorie diet without ACV for 12 weeks. The group consuming ACV lost more weight. A 2009 trial of 175 people who consumed vinegar (not specifically ACV, though) every day showed modest weight loss (2 to 4 pounds) after three months. That group also had lower triglyceride levels than study participants who did not drink vinegar.
Read also: The Goli Gummies Weight Loss Myth
Potential Benefits of ACV
- Blood Sugar Regulation: Taking ACV has been shown to improve blood sugar levels among healthy individuals and patients with diabetes, according to a 2019 review.
- Cholesterol Reduction: ACV may have a beneficial effect on lipid profiles and glycemic parameters.
- Weight Loss: Some studies suggest a link between ACV and modest weight loss.
Risks and Side Effects of ACV
- Throat Irritation: Apple cider vinegar is highly acidic and may irritate the throat if consumed frequently or in large amounts.
- Tooth Enamel Erosion: Over time, acidic drinks can weaken tooth enamel.
- Esophageal Mucosal Damage: Too much ACV can cause heartburn, esophageal mucosal damage or reduce gastric emptying into the small intestine.
- Medication Interactions: ACV may interact with certain medications, including diuretics, insulin, and supplements like licorice and horsetail, potentially leading to low potassium levels.
Considerations
- Commercial apple cider vinegar can be used safely in small amounts for up to 12 weeks.
- It's essential to adhere to the dosing instructions on the supplement label and avoid exceeding the recommended amount.
- If stomach sensitivity occurs, consuming ACV with food may be necessary.
Ashwagandha Gummies: Stress Reduction and Beyond?
Ashwagandha, an adaptogen with a long history in Ayurvedic medicine, is another popular ingredient in gummies like Goli Ashwagandha Gummies. It is used to promote balance, resilience, calmness, and overall well-being. Fast forward to now, and we’ve got Goli Ashwagandha Gummies-a modern, candy-like twist on an ancient adaptogen.
Goli Ashwagandha Gummies combine 150 milligrams of KSM-66 Ashwagandha extract with vitamin D2. The gummies offer 83 percent of your daily vitamin D1, but as D2 (ergocalciferol), which is generally less effective than D3 (cholecalciferol).
A 2016 study suggests that 300 milligrams of ashwagandha-the amount in a serving of Goli-can significantly reduce stress, cortisol levels, and food cravings, leading to reductions in body weight and BMI in adults experiencing chronic stress.
Claims and Concerns
The manufacturer claims that the ingredients in Ashwagandha Gummies, KSM-66 Ashwagandha, and vitamin D, are clinically proven to provide weight loss and weight management benefits;
The National Advertising Division (NAD) has raised concerns regarding several claims made about Goli Ashwagandha Gummies, including those related to weight loss, sexual function, and physical performance. NAD recommended that Goli discontinue:
Read also: Optimizing Goli Gummy Intake
- Unqualified efficacy claims that the Ashwagandha Gummies product provides sexual function benefits.
- Claims that the ingredients in Ashwagandha Gummies, KSM-66 Ashwagandha, and vitamin D, are clinically proven to provide weight loss and weight management benefits.
- Establishment claims about the ability of KSM-66 Ashwagandha to improve sexual function.
- The claim “Ashwagandha = Nature’s Aphrodisiac!”
- The claim that “Ashwagandha . . .
NAD expressed concern with several methodological flaws in the advertiser’s study on KSM-66 Ashwagandha that undermined the reliability of the results. NAD also found the results of this study, and the advertiser’s vitamin D studies, to be a poor fit for the challenged weight loss and weight maintenance claims.
NAD's Recommendations
NAD recommended that Goli discontinue the establishment claims:
- “KSM-66® Ashwagandha, plus vitamin D are clinically proven to help support weight management.”
- “KSM-66® Ashwagandha has been clinically proven to…Reduce and maintain healthy body weight.”
- “Research shows that by lowering cortisol levels, KSM-66® Ashwagandha can help reduce stress-related food cravings and weight gain.”
Given the lack of product testing evidence in the record, NAD concluded that the challenged implied claims regarding the Ashwagandha Gummies product efficacy were unsupported.
Specifically, NAD addressed implied claims such as:
- Taking Goli Ashwagandha Gummies will result in the purported benefits Goli claims are attributable to KSM-66® Ashwagandha.
- Taking Goli Ashwagandha Gummies will quickly result in meaningful weight loss without the need for special diet or exercise.
- Taking Goli Ashwagandha Gummies will result in meaningful weight loss in all consumers.
- Taking Goli Ashwagandha Gummies will treat or cure female orgasm disorders.
- Taking Goli Ashwagandha Gummies will treat or cure male fertility disorders.
- Taking Goli Ashwagandha Gummies will support physical performance, endurance, and muscle size regardless of an individual’s physical condition or fitness level.
- Taking Goli Ashwagandha Gummies will result in meaningful endurance and physical performance benefits without the need for special diet or exercise.
- Taking Goli Ashwagandha Gummies will increase muscle size without the need for special diet or exercise.
Regarding the challenged sales claims, NAD determined that the challenged implied messages concerning the limited duration of Goli’s sales were not misleading. NAD found that although Goli’s sales are quite frequent, they do not amount to a continuous sale, particularly because the discounts appear to change frequently. However, NAD determined that Goli’s use of phrases such as “limited supply remaining” and “supplies limited” convey the implied message that the products are currently in limited supply. Therefore, NAD recommended that the advertiser modify its advertising to avoid this misleading implied message.
Read also: The Truth About Goli Gummies
Finally, NAD concluded that Goli’s advertising does not convey the challenged implied messages that:
- Influencers discussing Goli on social media are expressing their honestly held beliefs, findings, and opinions without any material connection with Goli.
- Influencers discussing Goli on social media do so solely out of a desire to share their positive experiences with the product.
Goli's Response
In its advertiser statement, Goli stated that it “agrees to comply with NAD’s recommendations” although noted that it “disagrees with certain aspects of the NAD’s decision.” The advertiser also stated that it “intends to make further voluntary changes to its advertising which will provide greater clarity to consumers regarding the benefits of the ingredients in Goli’s ashwagandha gummies, consistent with the evidence-based science.”
Considerations
- Goli Ashwagandha Gummies deliver a tasty and convenient way to get daily adaptogen support with KSM-66 and added Vitamin D.
- Goli Ashwagandha Gummies appear to be effective for many with thousands of reviewers noting benefits such as improved sleep, reduced stress, and enhanced mood.
- Goli Ashwagandha Gummies aren’t recommended for people who are pregnant, breastfeeding, managing a medical condition, or taking prescription medications without checking with a doctor first.
- Athletes who are drug tested should be cautious, too, as Goli doesn’t confirm testing for banned substances.
- Delivers 300 milligrams of KSM-66® ashwagandha extract per serving, a research-backed dose from a reputable source.
- Vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO, and made without gelatin or artificial colors.
- Contains up to 8 grams of added sugar daily, based on Goli’s dosing recommendation.
- Uses vitamin D2-a less bioavailable form of vitamin D.
Other Ingredients in Weight Loss Gummies
Besides ACV and ashwagandha, other active ingredients found in weight loss gummies include:
- Green Tea Extract: Claimed to help burn calories and fat, support metabolism, and suppress appetite.
- Garcinia Extract: Marketed for its potential appetite-suppressing effects.
- Raspberry Ketones: Believed to promote fat burning.
- Green Coffee Bean Extract: Touted for its metabolism-boosting properties.
- Caffeine: A stimulant that can increase energy expenditure.
- Coffea Robusta Extract: Some studies suggest it may contribute to modest weight loss.
- Exogenous Ketones: Found in Keto weight loss gummies, they induce a similar metabolic state to naturally occurring ketones.
It's important to note that the effectiveness of these ingredients in gummy form often lacks robust scientific backing, and more research is needed to substantiate their claims.
The Importance of a Holistic Approach to Weight Loss
Keep in mind that weight loss takes time and effort. Using a trendy drink or a supplement alone won't help you reach your weight goal. The key is to burn more calories than you take in from food and drinks. So focus on eating a balanced diet and getting more physical activity.
Weight loss gummies, like other weight loss supplements, should not be seen as a magic bullet. At best, they may provide a minimal or modest boost to weight loss efforts when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise. At worst, they may offer no benefit whatsoever.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) experts recommend losing weight through diet and exercise at a rate of 1-2 pounds a week.
Adele explains that she lost 100 pounds by exercising. She says she works out 2-3 times a day - weights in the morning, hiking or boxing in the afternoon, and additional cardio in the evening.
Focus on Sustainable Strategies
- Balanced Diet: Prioritize whole, unprocessed foods, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
- Regular Physical Activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise per week, along with strength training exercises.
- Lifestyle Changes: Incorporate healthy habits into your daily routine, such as getting enough sleep, managing stress, and staying hydrated.
Regulatory Considerations and Potential Risks
It’s important to remember that supplements are not FDA regulated. Weight loss gummies and other supplements are not subject to the same rigorous testing and approval processes as prescription medications. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not approve weight loss supplements before sale. They have found hundreds of supplements on store shelves that contain potentially harmful ingredients.
The FTC warns consumers about weight loss supplements. Before buying a supplement, consider false promises. If a product says you’ll lose 30 pounds in 30 days without diet or exercise, it’s likely a red flag. The same red flag applies to promises that a product will work for everyone or take weight off permanently.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
- Exaggerated Claims: Be wary of products that promise rapid or effortless weight loss without diet or exercise.
- "Miracle" Ingredients: Question products that rely on unproven or poorly researched ingredients.
- Fake Testimonials: Watch out for fabricated success stories or altered "before" and "after" images.
Consulting a Healthcare Professional
Speaking with a doctor before taking them is always a good idea. Always check with your doctor before taking apple cider vinegar gummies while pregnant. Before trying weight loss gummies, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have underlying health conditions, are taking medications, or are pregnant or breastfeeding. A doctor can help you assess the potential risks and benefits of weight loss gummies and determine whether they are appropriate for you.