Pyruvate for Weight Control
Why Use
Why Do Dieters Use It?*
Some dieters say that pyruvate helps them lose inches and also boosts metabolism and improves energy levels.
What Do the Advocates Say?*
Pyruvate appears to promote weight loss by increasing the metabolic rate. There is good research based on human studies showing that pyruvate helps to promote weight loss in overweight people on low-fat diets.
Although pyruvate promotes weight loss, which is good for heart health, it is important to monitor cholesterol levels as it may reduce HDL (“good”) cholesterol.
*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.
Dosage & Side Effects
How Much Is Usually Taken by Dieters?
Pyruvate, a compound that occurs naturally in the body, might aid weight-loss efforts.1 A controlled trial found that pyruvate supplements (22 to 44 grams per day) enhanced weight loss and resulted in a greater reduction of body fat in overweight adults consuming a low-fat diet.2 Three controlled trials combining 6 to 10 grams per day of pyruvate with an exercise program reported greater effects on weight loss and body fat than that seen with a placebo plus the exercise program.3, 4, 5 Animal studies suggest that pyruvate supplementation leads to weight loss by increasing the resting metabolic rate.6
Side Effects
High intakes of pyruvate can trigger gastrointestinal upset, such as gas, bloating, and diarrhea. One preliminary study in exercising women found 10 grams per day of pyruvate reduced blood levels of HDL (the “good” cholesterol) after one month.7
Interactions with Supplements, Foods, & Other Compounds
At the time of writing, there were no well-known supplement or food interactions with this supplement.
Interactions with Medicines
As of the last update, we found no reported interactions between this supplement and medicines. It is possible that unknown interactions exist. If you take medication, always discuss the potential risks and benefits of adding a new supplement with your doctor or pharmacist.
More Resources
Where to Find It
Pyruvate is formed in the body as a byproduct of the normal metabolism of carbohydrates and protein and is present in several foods, including red apples, cheese, dark beer, and red wine. Dietary supplements of pyruvate are also available.
