7-Keto

DHEA was once believed to be the next great supplement that would get everyone skinny and looking like super models.  It did prove to be effective, but it was discovered that when the body metabolized this adrenal hormone it would do so as if it were a type of steroid—which it essentially is.  You can imagine the negative side effects what would result in that process but along came 7-Keto DHEA, which is simply a natural metabolite, or in other words, a conversion product of DHEA.  The makers of this ingredient want us to buy into that 7-Keto DHEA offers not only the benefits of DHEA but without the harmful side effects. Yea, if everything was that perfect, wouldn’t it be nice?

How does 7-Keto DHEA work?

The benefits of DHEA include the reversal of aging and an increased effectiveness in the body’s fat burning potential.  That’s why DHEA is targeted by weight loss manufactures. As we increase in age, the body starts to decrease its ability to burn fat cells. This process is called thermogenesis.  The higher the rate of thermogenisis, the more efficient the body is at converting fat cells into energy.  7-Keto DHEA is an active ingredient in this process and thus helps the body improve its ability to burn unwanted fat.

A good thing 7-Keto DHEA has going for it, is time.  It’s been around for a number of years so the research performed on this supplement is pretty strong. Several studies claim solid weight loss when going head-to-head against a placebo; in fact, the pounds lost were almost 3 times more. Because the body processed its cousin, DHEA,  as a steroid side effects seemed to be a major concern for those interested in 7-Keto. As far as we’ve seen, there doesn’t appear to be any long-lasting similar side effects associated with this supplement.

The Bad

  • Common ingredient—greater chance for abuse
  • Shouldn’t be taken if pregnant, but that’s common with many diet pills
  • Most research based on studies done on rats

The Good

  • May assist in thermogenisis
  • Proven by several studies to aid in weight loss
  • Fairly accessible, no prescription needed
  • No known side effects
  • Relatively cheap
  • Positive effects not limited to weight loss

The way we see it

The research is pretty extensive, and it appears that 7-Keto DHEA does have weight loss potential.  That said, it must be noted that each person responds differently. If you’re interested in purchasing a product with this ingredient make sure it’s used properly, and if that’s the case, your chances of success are much greater.