Doctor Reviews: OLLY Combat Cravings

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When we examine the ingredients in OLLY Combat Cravings, it becomes evident that it primarily consists of a high-dose chromium supplement. Although it includes small amounts of green tea, goji berry, and ginger, these quantities are too minimal to have a significant impact, even if they possess some beneficial properties.

To determine whether this supplement can genuinely help with reducing cravings or aiding in weight loss, the key question is whether taking high doses of chromium is effective for these purposes. So, let’s explore whether it’s effective.

What does chromium do?

Firstly, what does chromium do in the body? Chromium is an essential mineral needed for the body to function, but only in tiny amounts. It plays a role in glucose metabolism. When we eat, especially foods containing carbohydrates, our bodies break down those carbohydrates into sugar, specifically glucose, which enters our bloodstream.

To control blood sugar levels, the pancreas releases insulin. Insulin acts like a key, allowing glucose to enter cells and be used for energy. Consistently consuming too many high-sugar or high-carb foods can lead to insulin resistance, where our cells become less responsive to insulin, resulting in elevated blood sugar levels. Chromium doesn’t increase insulin production but can enhance the action of existing insulin, making the “key” work better.

Taking chromium supplements can improve glucose uptake by cells, helping to lower blood sugar levels. This improved glucose control may contribute to weight management by reducing fat storage and theoretically reducing cravings.

Is it effective for weight loss?

Regarding weight loss, research on individuals with diabetes suggests that taking chromium may slightly lower HbA1C, a blood sugar indicator, by about 0.6%, and could lead to a modest weight loss of approximately 0.5-1 kg over 12-16 weeks. However, these benefits are mainly observed in those already experiencing insulin resistance, such as individuals with poorly controlled diabetes or PCOS. Studies on healthy overweight or obese adults and children show that chromium doesn’t lead to any fat reduction.

So, while chromium may have limited effects on fat loss or cravings in those with poorly controlled diabetes or PCOS, it’s unlikely to have significant effects on the general population.

Is it effective for cravings?

What about cravings specifically? Unfortunately, there’s a lack of human studies specifically investigating whether chromium can help with cravings.

The closest research looked at chromium supplements in the context of binge eating disorder, a condition marked by frequent intense cravings and excessive eating. However, this study showed that chromium didn’t influence the frequency of binge eating, body weight, or depressive symptoms. Therefore, chromium is not likely to be a realistic solution for managing cravings in most people.

Ingredients of OLLY Combat Cravings

So, what’s inside OLLY Combat Cravings? Let’s dive into the details of each ingredient and check if they pack a punch, how well they work, and their potential for aiding weight loss. It’s recommended to take one capsule per day, and we’ll assess if this dosage is sufficient.

Stick around until the end, where I’ll also explore more affordable alternatives and provide an overall rating for the supplement.

Green tea extract

Green tea is a common ingredient in many weight loss supplements, including OLLY Combat Cravings. Why? Because green tea contains something called EGCG, which is believed to have potential benefits for weight loss.

However, it’s essential to manage expectations. While EGCG is thought to play a role in weight loss, the actual fat-burning effects are not exceptionally robust. Relying solely on these compounds is unlikely to result in significant weight loss.

Research suggests that to experience the potential benefits of green tea, you might need a relatively high daily dose, around 500 to 800 mg of EGCG extract. That’s equivalent to consuming more than 8 cups of green tea every day. Now, let’s put this in context: OLLY Combat Cravings provides less than 1/10th of that amount on a daily basis.

So, while green tea is part of the OLLY Combat Cravings formula, it’s essential to be realistic about the amounts present. The potential benefits might not be as pronounced as you’d expect based on the available scientific evidence.

Goji berry powder

Goji berries are those little red gems often seen in Chinese dishes, herbal teas, and even some traditional remedies like tinctures, wine, and juice.

Now, while goji berries have a long history in Chinese cuisine and medicine, there’s a catch when it comes to their role in weight or fat loss — there’s no scientific evidence to back up their effectiveness.

Ginger

Ginger is that familiar herb with a comforting warmth. Beyond its traditional use, there’s some hint that it might lend a hand to those dealing with diabetes by helping control blood sugar. However, the evidence is on the weaker side.

When it comes to weight, there’s a bit of a mixed bag. While there’s limited evidence suggesting ginger might play a role in preventing weight gain, there’s a lack of solid proof that it’s a weight loss superhero.

It’s crucial to keep in mind that the studies demonstrating these effects used quite a bit of ginger daily—more than what you’d find in your dose of OLLY Combat Cravings.

Side effects and warnings

Let’s talk about some important considerations when it comes to OLLY Combat Cravings. It’s crucial to be aware of potential side effects and heed any warnings associated with this supplement.

First things first, OLLY Combat Cravings is essentially a chromium supplement. Typically, chromium is recommended at doses ranging from 200 to 600 µg per day. Now, here’s the scoop – OLLY Combat Cravings delivers 1000 µg, which is on the higher end and considered the upper limit for safe chromium supplementation.

This means it’s wise to stick to the suggested dosage of one capsule per day. Additionally, be cautious to avoid unintentionally doubling up on chromium from other supplements.

Chromium Toxicity

Now, let’s talk about the serious stuff – chromium toxicity. While it’s rare, an overdose can lead to some significant issues. Think stomach troubles like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, it can even pose risks to your kidneys and liver, cause skin problems, and disrupt essential body processes like glucose metabolism.

It’s essential to recognize that chromium is a unique player. It’s both an essential nutrient and a heavy metal. However, there’s a key difference between taking it as a supplement and being exposed to it as a heavy metal.

Chromium supplements, especially in excess, can lead to chromium toxicity, primarily due to a form known as trivalent chromium (Cr3+). This is the culprit behind the symptoms we mentioned earlier.

On the flip side, exposure to chromium as a heavy metal usually involves hexavalent chromium (Cr6+), which is highly toxic and found in certain industrial settings. Breathing it in or getting it on your skin can lead to serious health issues, including the risk of lung and nasal cancers.

It’s crucial to understand the distinction between regulated supplements and environmental exposure to hexavalent chromium. Unlike supplements, industrial exposure is uncontrolled, making it a more significant concern due to the accumulating effects of heavy metal poisoning.

Is OLLY Combat Cravings effective?

Let’s get straight to the point – is OLLY Combat Cravings effective? Well, for the majority, it might not be a game-changer. When it comes to curbing cravings or promoting weight loss, the impact is not very significant.

However, if you’re dealing with insulin resistance issues, such as diabetes or PCOS, there’s a chance it could provide a slight improvement in your blood sugar levels and some other health markers, like lipid levels.

But, and it’s an important but, don’t get too ahead of yourself. Even in these cases, it’s unlikely to lead to a major drop in the numbers on the scale.

Overall review

Reviewing OLLY Combat Cravings by effectiveness for weight loss, I’m giving it a D. It’s no better than chromium, which, although beneficial in diabetes, is not very effective for weight or fat loss.

Reviewing OLLY Combat Cravings by cost, I’m giving it a D. You can replicate what OLLY Combat Cravings is providing you for many times less.

Reviewing OLLY Combat Cravings for safety, I’m giving it a C. Chromium at such high doses is unnecessary and puts people at risk of overdose.

Overall review, I’m giving OLLY Combat Cravings an F. I recommend you stay away from it.

Top supplement choices

• Chromium nicotinate (GTF) – 1 to 5 caps / day
• Chromium picolinate – 1 to 5 caps / day

Learn more about

• Chromium For Weight Loss
• 6 Things To Look For On Supplements
• 5 Things to Know Before Buying Weight Loss Supplements

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