Weight loss supplements
No supplement produces meaningful weight loss on its own.
Short answer No supplement produces meaningful weight loss on its own. The few with any evidence have small effects and only alongside a reduced-calorie diet. Be wary of 'fat burners' and pills sold online, some of which have contained undeclared medicines.
What has an authorised claim
Glucomannan, a fibre, 'contributes to weight loss in the context of an energy-restricted diet' at 3g a day in three doses with water before meals. Meal replacements that meet set rules may claim to help with weight loss when replacing two meals a day.
What does not
Apple cider vinegar pills, raspberry ketones, green tea 'fat burners', detox teas and most 'metabolism boosters' have no authorised claims and weak evidence. Berberine is studied for blood sugar, not approved for weight loss, and interacts with medicines.
Prescription treatments are not supplements
Weight loss injections and tablets are medicines, prescribed after assessment. Anything sold online without a prescription claiming to be one should be avoided.
What we link to, and what we do not
Oriflame's Natural Balance Shake is a high-protein snack, not a meal replacement or a weight loss product, and we do not present it as one. Protein and fibre can help you feel full as part of a balanced diet. For support, the NHS has a free weight loss plan.
Related pages
- Protein powders and shakesAdults need about 0.75g of protein per kilogram of body weight a day, which most people in the UK already eat.
- Supplement safetyMost supplements are safe at the stated dose for healthy adults.
- Health claims explainedIn Great Britain a supplement may only make a health claim that appears on the official nutrition and health claims register, and may never claim to prevent, treat or cure a disease.
Keep exploring
- Collagen gummies
- Prebiotics
- Berberine
- How to choose the best collagen supplement
- Pregnancy vitamins and supplements
- Supplement safety
Questions people ask
Do weight loss pills work?
Over-the-counter pills have small effects at best; none replaces diet and activity.
Are fat burners safe?
Some contain high doses of caffeine or undeclared ingredients; be cautious.
Can I take this with medication?
Ask a pharmacist or GP first; some supplements interact with medicines.
Do supplements replace a balanced diet?
No. They are meant to add to a varied diet, not stand in for one.
Sources
Checked 9 October 2026.