Abstract
OBJECTIVE:
Plexus Slim is advertised as a safe and effective method for weight loss. The goal is to see if Plexus Slim Pink Drink’s claims on weight control and other health benefits can be scientifically validated based on the available research of each active ingredient in the product.
DESIGN:
Literature searches of studies containing the ingredients contained in the Plexus “Pink Drink”. Each ingredient with health benefit and weight control claims will be reviewed and complied.
Ingredients and Beneficial Claims
- Alpha Lipoic Acid
- Chlorogenic Acid (Coffee Bean Extract)
- Garcinia Cambogia
- Chromium
RESULTS:
Chromium (CR): The majority of the results show zero evidence for assisting in weight loss. A couple studies do show a small effect, however the results are statistically irrelevant. In the studies that showed a small effect, the test subjects ingested between 600-1000 mcg of Chromium daily. Plexus Slim only contains 200 mcg of Chromium.
Side Effects
Kidney disease: There are at least three reports of kidney damage in patients who took chromium picolinate. Don’t take chromium supplements, if you already have kidney disease.
Liver disease: There are at least three reports of liver damage in patients who took chromium picolinate. Don’t take chromium supplements, if you already have liver disease.
Diabetes: Chromium might lower blood sugar levels too much if taken along with diabetes medications. If you have diabetes, use chromium products cautiously and monitor blood glucose levels closely. Dose adjustments to diabetes medications might be necessary.
Chromate/leather contact allergy: Chromium supplements can cause allergic reactions in people with chromate or leather contact allergy. Symptoms include redness, swelling, and scaling of the skin.
Behavioral or psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, or schizophrenia: Chromium might affect brain chemistry and might make behavioral or psychiatric conditions worse. If you have one of these conditions, be careful when using chromium supplements. Pay attention to any changes in how you feel.
Chlorogenic Acid (CA): The control trials I have access to show some small improvement over placebos. There is also a systematic review that included three other studies that shared the same conclusion. Most of these studies show a high risk of bias and the studies are all of poor methodological quality. I systematic review calls for more rigorous trials.
Garcinia Cambogia (HCA): Garcinia Cambogia seems to show some improvement, but the effects are small. Plexus doesn’t publish how much Garcinia is in their 530mg Plexus Slim Blend. In the studies that show improvement the test subjects took on average 3.06 grams of Garcinia per day. The lowest dose that worked was 1000mg of HCA per day. It would seem that it isn’t possible to get a meaningful dose from the Plexus Slim Blend.
Side Effects
Garcinia can cause nausea, digestive tract discomfort, and headache. Study HCA11 shows possible damage to testicles in lab rats. Men should speak to a urologist before taking HCA. Study HCA12 shows possible increased heart rate due to serotonin syndrome. It is recommenced for those on antidepressants to consult a doctor for taking HCA.
Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA): ALA seems to have fairly modest results in doses between 800 – 1800 mg per day. More research is required to verify the results and to establish a recommend dose. When it comes to Plexus Slim, there is not enough research to show that the unknown dose of ALA in the 530mg Plexus Slim Blend is high enough to see any results.
Side Effects
Diabetes: Alpha-lipoic acid can decrease blood sugar levels. Your diabetes medications might need to be adjusted by your healthcare provider.
Excessive use of alcohol/thiamine deficiency: Alcohol can lower the amount of thiamine (vitamin B1) in the body. Taking alpha-lipoic acid when there is a shortage of thiamine might cause serious health problems. If you drink a lot of alcohol or take alpha-lipoic acid, you should take a thiamine supplement.
Thyroid disease: Taking alpha-lipoic acid might interfere with treatments for under-active or over-active thyroid.
CONCLUSION:
Based on the available research of Plexus Slims ingredients, it is highly unlikely that the results people are reporting are because of the product. It is more likely the result of their modified diet and/or exercise. Plexus Slim is touted as being a safe product. While a majority of people would not experience side effects. There is enough evidence to suggest, the product is not 100% safe and anyone selling the product should inform everyone of the possible side effects and suggest customers to consult a doctor before using their product. High blood pressure and increased heart palpitations were the most commonly reported side effect to the Better Business Bureau.
Sources