How Do Lipotropics Work?
- Lipotropic means "fat-loving." Therefore, lipotropics are materials that turn fat into liquid through the process of homogenization. In order to do this, lipotropics send signals to the liver that cause it to produce elevated levels of lecithin. Lecithin thins cholesterol deposits in the blood vessels by making it water soluble. This process also prohibits fats from building up in the liver and strengthens the immune system's ability to fight disease by stimulating the production of antibodies and other substances which destroy viruses and microbes.
- There are four main types of lipotropics: methionine, choline, inositol and betaine. Methionine is an amino acid found in humans. It regulates the level of the hormone estrogen in the body. Estrogen works in the liver to reduce the amount of bile it produces, which controls cholesterol. Methionine effectively turns estrogen off when it has reduced bile levels. Methionine also impacts compounds in the liver which contain sulfur. These substances help the body to defend itself against toxins. Methionine assists them in this role when high levels of toxicity exist within the liver.
Choline and inositol help the liver release fats and bile that, if trapped, could cause diseases such as cirrhosis and impinge the metabolism of fat. Choline is used to treat illnesses such as diabetes, gall stones, muscular dystrophy, glaucoma, hardening of the arteries and dementia. Inositol plays a role in reducing depression and panic attacks.
Betaine supplies methyl groups to the body, which disarm matter toxic to the body and then transform them into beneficial material. For instance, a substance called homocysteine elevates the possibility of heart disease in the body. Methyl groups found in betaine lower amounts of homocysteine when they are converted to methionine. - Synthetic lipotropics can be taken as a supplement in tablet form to aid in weight loss. These substances increase metabolism by stimulating the nervous system and heart. A popular lipotropic supplement is Ephedra. However, due to the potentially harmful side effects of Ephedra, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned the sale of it in the United States. It should be noted that lipotropics are not regulated by the FDA and therefore may cause harm to those who ingest them. While they can assist in weight loss, caution should be exercised when taking lipotropic supplements. Lipotropic injections are also available through weight loss centers and professionals. However, as with oral supplements, care should be taken when considering the effect these drugs may have on the body.
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