Lipo B injections are becoming an increasingly popular option for those looking to lose weight fast. As a trainer and nutritionist, I work with various clients who are on a mission to slim down, and this is a topic that has surfaced a few times, so I thought I would address it in an article.
Proponents of the Lipo B injections rave about their ability to burn fat quickly, reduce hunger, and offer other health benefits. However, as with most “get slim quick” solutions, it seems like it may be too good to be true. So is it? In this article, I will give you the rundown on what Lipo B injections are, and whether or not they generate results for weight loss.
In this article:
- What are Lipotropic Injections?
- What is in a Lipo B Injection
- How Lipo B Injections are Administered
- Are Injections More Effective Than Oral Supplementation?
- Side Effects of Lipo B Injections
- Where Can You Get Lipo B Injections?
- Realistic Results You Can Expect
- Are Injections More Effective Than Oral Supplementation?
- So, Do Lipo B injections work for weight loss?
- More Practical Weight Loss Solutions
What are Lipotropic Injections?
Lipotropic injections are a combination of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that are specifically designed to improve the metabolism of fats. It is believed that these injections improve the body’s ability to mobilize fat deposits, increase metabolism, and stimulate your liver. The shots are usually given once a week, with a combination of ingredients that include a concentration of a certain vitamin, as well as other lipotropic agents such as choline, methionine, inositol, and L-carnitine (more on these later.) Most times, these shots are given in conjunction with a more robust weight loss program.
Lipo B injections, in particular, are rich in B vitamins, specifically B-12, which has been touted as a potential fat loss enhancer. Although, you can get different variations of the lipotropic injection, such as Lipo-C.
What is in a Lipo B Injection
A typical lipo B injection contains a mix of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, including:
Vitamin B-12:
Vitamin B-12 is an essential water-soluble vitamin that contributes to cell metabolism, DNA synthesis, and nerve function. While B-12 deficiencies are not common in developed countries, those on vegetarian and vegan diets are more likely to benefit from B-12 supplementation. Deficiencies are associated with adverse health effects such as heart and blood vessel disease, compromised immunity, dementia, and inferior athletic performance.
B-12 is also believed to be a fat-loss-inducing agent due to the fact that deficiencies compromise exercise performance and adequate consumption of B vitamins help to support the immune system through the activation of succinyl-CoA, which contributes to the Krebs Cycle – an aerobic metabolic process.
The Science Behind B-12 for Fat Loss
So does B-12 actually help with the removal of fat? While some studies have identified a negative correlation between B-12 deficiency and fat metabolism, however, a causal relationship has not been established. So basically, the low amounts of vitamin B-12 could be a result of generally poor diet, and lifestyle changes, which we already know can lead to obesity—or a plethora of other things. There is not sufficient research to indicate that low B-12 is the reason for lower fat metabolism.
Even if new evidence arises to support a causal relationship, those who are not deficient are likely to reap incremental benefits.
How Your Body Metabolizes Vitamin B-12
Vitamin B-12 is water-soluble and, therefore, is not stored in your body for very long. And if consumed in excess, your body will secrete them in your urine. This means that, in theory, unless you have a deficiency in the vitamins in the complex, supplementation is probably not going to have any health impacts.
Methionine:
Methionine is an essential amino acid that supports the growth, repair, and development of tissues in the body. It also helps slow cell aging and improves the absorption of certain minerals, as well as prevent fat buildup in the liver.
The Science Behind Methionine Supplementation
There is currently limited research to support the claim that methionine supplementation can be beneficial for fat loss. In fact, Some studies show that methionine restriction may actually improve fat oxidation in obese individuals. However, there is a lacking body of evidence surrounding this topic.
Inositol:
Inositol is a natural sugar found in plants, animals, and humans. However, it is often referred to as Vitamin B-8. Inositol plays a role in cell structure, insulin response, and the release of certain chemicals in the brain.
The Science Behind Inositol Supplementation
The research on inositol supplementation for fat loss is still in its early stages, but it does appear to be promising. Studies indicate that inositol may improve symptoms in women with PCOS. Other research also suggests that supplementation may help improve conditions associated with metabolic syndrome—including body mass, waist size, and risk of heart disease.
Notably, this study was done on postmenopausal women with metabolic syndrome and, therefore, may not apply to the general population.
Choline
Choline is an essential nutrient found in plants and animals, as well as in some foods. The body metabolizes it in the liver, but it is not enough to satisfy human needs. Thus, it must also be obtained through diet. It helps to produce cell membranes, neurotransmitters, and other compounds and supports liver and brain function.
Deficiencies are not common in developed countries but can result in muscle damage, compromised liver function, and other adverse health effects.
The Science Behind Choline Supplementation
There is evidence to suggest that choline supplementation can play an important role in preventing birth defects and improving brain function in offspring. For this reason, it is a recommended prenatal vitamin.
There is also some limited evidence to support the use of choline to support weight loss efforts. A few studies have shown that choline consumption may improve body composition and reduce fat mass. This meta-analysis also suggests positive metabolic benefits. Although, there is more research is needed.
Carnitine
Carnitine is an amino acid synthesized in the body, and it is also found in some foods. It helps to transport fatty acids into cells, where they can be broken down and used for energy. It also offers some detoxifying benefits. Your body synthesized Cartinine on it is not an essential nutrient. However, it does naturally occur in fish, meat, and dairy products, along with a few plant-based sources.
The Science Behind L- Carnitine Supplementation
Some evidence supports the use of Carnitine supplementation in certain use cases, for instance, reducing insulin resistance, slowing the progression of HIV and AIDS and improving heart health.
There is also some evidence to suggest that L-Cartinine may encourage body weight and BMI reduction in overweight and obese individuals. However, trials did not produce a reduction in body fat percentage, indicating that any weight loss is accounted for in the reduction of lean body mass as well as body fat.
How Lipo B Injections are Administered
Lipo B injections are typically administered in the areas with excess fat, such as the buttocks, thighs, or abdomen, subcutaneously. The dosage varies depending on your weight loss goals. Generally speaking, they are administered once a week. While the injections are not painful, they can be uncomfortable and may leave bruising.
Are Injections More Effective Than Oral Supplementation?
Another piece of bad news for the Lipo B hopefuls. There is no evidence that suggests that injectable vitamins are more effective than oral supplementation. However, some people prefer injections because they are less likely to forget to take a pill every day, and it can be more cost-effective than daily oral supplementation.
Side Effects of Lipo B Injections
Lipo B injections also do not come without their side effects. They may cause nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, fatigue, itching, or rash. Additionally, subcutaneous injections often result in pain and swelling at the injection site.
Where Can You Get Lipo B Injections?
Lipo B injections are often administered at weight loss clinics and medical spas. Because regulation does not require medical credentials to administer these shots, it’s important to vet the practitioner you are working with.
Realistic Results You Can Expect
While there is anecdotal evidence that suggests that Lipo B injections may help you lose weight, however, there are a couple of potential reasons for this—that, unfortunately, are not because the injections themself worked. First off, they are also generally administered in conjunction with a diet and nutrition program, so anecdotal success can be credited to these changes.
Furthermore, while there is no evidence supporting the efficacy of lipo b shots, there is sufficient evidence showing that the placebo effect can and will cause people to believe (and even experience) results without a casual relationship existing between the test in question.
The truth is that Lipo B injections are not a miracle weight loss solution. While the ingredients in these injections may help to support fat loss, it is important to note that diet and exercise should still be incorporated into your weight loss plan for the best results.
Are Injections More Effective Than Oral Supplementation?
Another piece of bad news for the Lipo B hopefuls. There is no evidence that suggests that injectable vitamins are more effective than oral supplementation. However, some people prefer injections because they are less likely to forget to take a pill every day, and it can be more cost-effective than daily oral supplementation.
So, Do Lipo B injections work for weight loss?
Unfortunately, there isn’t a lot of scientific evidence that suggests that weekly lipotropic injections are an effective weight loss tool. While there is some promising evidence supporting the supplementation of certain components of the lipotropic shots, the science here is still limited, and there is no evidence supporting B-12 supplementation for fat loss.
Notably, most of the existing research on lipotropic injections and the lipo-b components listed above focuses primarily on obese individuals and those suffering from other chronic conditions. There is not much evidence to demonstrate their effects on the general population. Similarly, existing trials do not account for other potentially contributing variables, such as overall diet and lifestyle choices.
All of this is to say that (unless you have underlying conditions), by eating a balanced diet that is not lacking in any major food groups, you are likely receiving adequate intakes of all of the above nutrients, and therefore, supplementation is not going to have any significant changes on your overall health. Choline supplementation in pregnant women, however, is an exception.
More Practical Weight Loss Solutions
Eating a balanced diet, increasing your activity level, and living a generally healthy lifestyle is going to be the most effective way to lose weight. If you suffer from other medical conditions or deficiencies, your doctor may recommend some medical intervention. However, regular exercise and a healthy diet are the most effective way to make progress on your weight loss journey.
If you are concerned about inadequate micronutrient intakes or have a hard time adhering to a proper diet, supplementing with a good multivitamin can help improve overall health. However, the bioavailability of nutrients found in supplements is almost always less than those found in real food. So of course, getting your nutrients through whole food is the preferred method.
For supplements that do contribute to health and wellness progress, check out my evidence-based supplement guide here.
FAQs
Are Lipotropic injections worth it.
There is limited evidence to suggest that lipotropic injections are an effective way to lose weight. However, some people anecdotally claim that it has worked for them. Although, in these instances, shots were administered in conjunction with a diet and exercise plan so this could be part of the reason for the alleged success.
How much does a Lipo B injection cost?
Lipo B injections generally cost between $35 and $75 depending on where you have them administered. However, keep in mind, that you must have them administered weekly for the duration of your weight loss program.
