Plenty of folks have been using GLP-1s — generic versions of popular weight loss drugs such as Ozempic and Zepbound — to jump-start their health journeys.
But not everyone can afford the drugs. Fortunately, there are options outside of GLP-1s.
The best thing anyone can do for weight loss is developing a diet and exercise routine. While those things are most important, there are some affordable supplements that can also assist in weight loss.
As always, you should check with your physician before taking any supplement.
The following is a look at three cheap supplements that could help you in your weight loss journey:
BERBERINE
Do a quick Google search for berberine and you will come across a handful of interesting headlines referring to it as “nature’s Ozempic.”
And considering the rising popularity of Ozempic and other weight loss drugs, that is bound to catch folks’ attention. Toss in the fact that you can grab a month’s supply of berberine off of Amazon for as little as $8 and giving it a run becomes an even more attractive idea.
A piece on the Mayo Clinic Press website calls it a “promising supplement” but adds that it is “not a magical weight-loss solution.”
In limited research, according to the Mayo Clinic, it has shown promise when it comes to lowering cholesterol and helping with diabetes and insulin resistance.
Per the Mayo Clinic, berberine is considered antimicrobial and “may alter the bacteria” in your gut. It said it is also “thought to act as an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-cancer substance.”
It’s effects on insulin and gut microbiota could be responsible for its potential weight-loss benefits, per the site. it’s benefits when it comes to better blood sugar regulation may also help control appetite.
The Cleveland Clinic also calls berberine a “promising supplement” for weight loss.
“Berberine can help diabetes, high blood pressure and lipid levels,” Doctor Elizabeth Bradley said according to the Cleveland Clinic. “Combine berberine with lifestyle changes, like losing weight, and it can positively affect those conditions.”
FIBER
The best way to add fiber is through your diet with foods such as fruits, vegetables, greens and whole grain, but if you can add fiber via supplementation and a month’s supply on Amazon is as cheap as $7. The Mayo Clinic said a fiber-rich diet is known to help you stay at a healthy weight while lowering the risk of diabetes, heart disease and even some types of cancer. Soluble fiber is the key. It dissolves in water and then forms likea gel in the stomach, slowing digestion. Insoluble fiber helps move food through your digestive system.
GREEN TEA
The Cleveland Clinic says there are a ton of benefits that come with green tea including cancer prevention, fighting heart disease, lower blood pressure, anti-inflammatory treatment, weight loss and lower cholesterol.
Green tea contains the antioxidant catechin. The Cleveland Clinic says it helps protect cells from damage from free radicals. You can get 20 tea bags on Amazon for as cheap as $5.49 or a month’s supply in pill form for as little as $7.