The human body responds differently to every substance that it encounters. For example, dieticians have learned that certain minerals, vitamins, sugars, proteins, and carbohydrates are needed for basic metabolic functions. They have also discovered that some substances show tendencies to suppress appetite, increase energy and boost metabolism. With obesity on the rise, they have started putting these substances to work in weight-loss pills. A few of the most common ingredients are described below.

Chitosan

Chitosan, which is made from shellfish like shrimp and lobster, can be used in water filtration, blood clotting, plant enhancement and weight-loss. Although Chitosan may have the ability to draw some fat cells from the body, scientists estimate that best results might eliminate no more than ten calories from your diet.

Chromium

The chromium found in naturally in foods is called trivalent Chromium. Traces of it are necessary for sugar metabolism, but a balanced and healthy diet can provide all the Chromium that your body needs.

Conjugate Linoleic Acid

In addition to reducing body fat, CLA has demonstrated some antioxidant and anti-cancer properties. It naturally occurs in meats and eggs and seems to be one of the safer dietary supplements found in weight-loss pills. It should still be taken in moderation though.

Guarana

Guarana is a climbing, fruit-bearing plant that is native to Brazil. Each piece of fruit envelopes a single seed that contains almost five times as much caffeine as a coffee bean. Consequently, Guarana has the same effects on the body as coffee and tea. As a dietary supplement, it is meant to be a metabolism booster, but is can also lead to insomnia and seizures in some people.

Hoodia Gordonii

Hoodia is a flowering cactus plant that is native to southern Africa. Indigenous peoples have traditionally used the plant to treat indigestion and small infections, but some scientists now believe that it might also serve as a natural appetite suppressant. As the plant received more and more media coverage, its value rose from $13 a kilogram to $250 dollars a kilogram. As a result, the plant has been over-harvested and placed on an endangered species list.

Even though hoodia has been touted as an effective and safe weight-loss supplement, there isn't a lot of evidence to back up these claims. Consequently, many medical professionals remain skeptical and do nor prescribe the drug. Unfortunately, that hasn't stopped weight-loss companies from producing everything from hoodia shakes and fruit bars to lollipops and pills for their hopeful consumers.

Citrus Naringin

Citrus Naringin, which is more commonly known as bitter orange, is a very common ingredient in many weight-loss pills. It is very effective, but potentially dangerous. Even though it is a natural ingredient, it contains chemicals like ephedrine that can cause high blood pressure, strokes and even heart attacks. That is why many health-care professionals recommend avoiding it or using it in small amounts.

Now that you have a basic understanding of common weight-loss pill ingredients, its time to look for safe and effective weight-loss pills.