Common Side Effects of Over-the-Counter Fat Burners

Most fat burners on the market today have a multi-faceted approach to weight loss, including a combination of stimulants, thermogenics and/or diuretics. Each of these ingredients carries different possible side effects. The dose and usage of fat burners can greatly influence the severity of side effects. Generally, as you increase your dose you also increase your risk of side effects and their severity.

Many fat burners recommend taking each dose on an empty stomach. If you do this and experience gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, such as diarrhea or cramping, try taking the dose after eating a snack or light meal. If you have a GI problem, such as irritable bowel syndrome or Crohn's disease, you are more likely to experience these sorts of side effects.

Even if you don't experience GI side effects, you may experience jitteriness, nervousness, or dizziness when taking the dose on an empty stomach. Again, try taking the dose after a light meal or snack.

Increased heart rate or heart palpitations may occur while taking fat burners. Blood pressure can also be increased. If you have any type of underlying heart condition or high blood pressure consult your doctor for recommendations on supplements or medications that are safe to help you lose weight.

Fidgeting and excess energy are common with fat burners as well. The excess energy and/or nervousness may lead to insomnia or less restful sleep. Since many fat burners are meant to be taken twice daily, try taking the second dose earlier in the day or quit taking the second dose all together.

Fat burners that contain diuretics, such as dandelion root, can cause frequent urination in some individuals. If you tend to hold excess water this symptom may be worse at first and then become less noticeable as your body adjusts to retaining less water.

Fat burners are meant to aid fat loss in individuals who exercise regularly and who eat healthfully most of the time. You may experience some weight loss without exercising, but your results will not be as noticeable. Also, you are more likely to experience difficulty sleeping if you do not use some of the excess energy in physical activity throughout the day.

Fat burners are never recommended for recommended for people under 21 years of age or pregnant or nursing women. Individuals with heart problems, high blood pressure or any other chronic health conditions should get a doctor's permission before beginning fat burner supplements.