DO FAT- BURNING TABLETS WORK?

Dozens of ‘metabolism-boosting’ supplements – including ingredients such as caffeine, capsaicin, L- carnitine and green tea extract – claim to stimulate energy processing in the body, increasing the rate at which we burn calories. But there’s little evidence that these products work, and most of their claims are not subject to scientific scrutiny because they are classed as food supplements rather than medicines.

Some studies have indicated that people burn more calories when they take caffeine but, according to the Mayo Clinic, this doesn’t appear to have any significant effect on weight loss. There is little data on most other ‘ fat-busting’ pill ingredients, although there is some evidence from small studies that capsaicin, which is found naturally in chillies, can promote loss of abdominal fat and make people feel fuller.

There is a constant stream of news stories about food types that can apparently provide a shortcut to weight loss by boosting metabolism, reducing fat levels or promoting healthy gut bacteria. Cayenne pepper, apples, cider vinegar and cinnamon have all been in the news recently. The problem is that most of these stories are based on small or isolated studies, often in rodents not humans. There may be something in them, but it’s still very early days.

Verdict: There is no easy fix for burning fat. Sorry!

Simon Crompton is a freelance writer and editor who specialises in science, health and social issues. He tweets from @Simoncrompton2