Some dieters say that guaraná helps improve weight loss results.
What Do the Advocates Say?*
The herb guaraná contains caffeine and the closely related alkaloids theobromine and theophylline; these compounds may curb appetite and increase weight loss. Caffeine’s effects are well known and include central nervous system stimulation, increased metabolic rate, and a mild diuretic effect.1 In a double-blind trial, 200 mg per day of caffeine was, however, no more effective than a placebo in promoting weight loss.2 Because of concerns about potential adverse effects, many doctors do not advocate using caffeine or caffeine-like substances to reduce weight.
*Dieters and weight-management advocates may claim benefits for this supplement based on their personal or professional experience. These are individual opinions and testimonials that may or may not be supported by controlled clinical studies or published scientific articles.
Guaraná
How Much Is Usually Taken by Dieters?
Guaraná contains substances similar to caffeine that could be responsible for caffeine-like responses in the body, including central nervous system stimulation, increased metabolic rate, and a mild diuretic effect.3 There is no research demonstrating guaraná is effective for weight loss on its own.
Side Effects
As with any caffeinated product, guaraná may cause insomnia, trembling, anxiety, palpitations, and urinary frequency.4 Guaraná should be avoided during pregnancy and breast-feeding.
Interactions with Supplements, Foods, & Other Compounds
At the time of writing, there were no well-known supplement or food interactions with this supplement.
Guaraná (Paullinia cupana) is a plant with a high caffeine content. Combining caffeine drug products and guaraná increases caffeine-induced side effects.
The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2024.
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