America faces an escalating health crisis – obesity now impacts a staggering 73.6% of adults (1). Being overweight significantly raises the risk for type 2 diabetes, heart disease, cancer and other chronic illnesses (2).
In search of fast solutions, millions turn to the promise of effortless weight loss from pills and potions. The global diet pill market reached a value of $37 billion in 2022 alone (3).
Enter supplement brands like It Works! peddling pills like Thermofight X to "attack fat" and "melt inches." Through multilevel marketing and social media, companies feed on hopes and dreams to push products of questionable science.
I know the desperation that drives consumers to try anything to lose weight. I‘ve been there. But outright scams remain far too common, while even legitimate supplements get overhyped.
That‘s why I researched Thermofight X extensively for this review – to provide facts and context so you can determine if it aligns with your health and consumer needs.
It Works! Background
Founded in 2001 by Mark and Cindy Pentecost, It Works! markets health supplements, skin care, essential oils and other wellbeing products through independent distributors.
The company made the Direct Selling Association’s Global 100 list from 2015-2017 for fastest growing MLMs but has since fallen off (4). It Works! also landed on Inc 5000’s list of fastest growing privately-held companies from 2011-2016 (5).
However, It Works! holds a dismal 1 out 5 star customer rating based on 458 reviews to their BBB profile (6). And while they faced a class action lawsuit in 2018 over misleading income claims for distributors, the case was dismissed on a technicality without resolving the root complaints (7).
Let’s analyze if the science and consumer experiences justify the hype behind this company’s flagship supplement – Thermofight X.
Who Thermofight X Targets
Thermofight X caters to adults seeking an effortless solution for shedding unwanted pounds through:
- Increasing thermogenic fat burning
- Balancing blood sugar
- Controlling hunger and cravings
The company claims consistent use leads to fast weight loss – up to 31 pounds over an 8 week period. A bold statement not supported by research.
While It Works! promises powerful results for all, the research I uncovered tells a different story. Keep reading this investigative Thermofight X review to uncover all the details.
Analyzing the Ingredient List
It Works! fails to fully disclose amounts of key ingredients. But Thermofight X contains:
Greenselect Phytosome
A patented green tea extract purported to enhance weight loss. One widely cited study showed overweight subjects taking this extract lost 31 lbs over 8 weeks (3).
However, the study failed to highlight participants also followed a calorie-restricted diet – a crucial detail undermining the miracle fat loss claims around this ingredient.
In my opinion as a seasoned supplement reviewer, more rigorous research on Greenselect Phytosome is still needed to validate weight loss and appetite suppression effects.
Chromium
An essential mineral important for regulating carb, protein and fat metabolism. But multiple studies confirm chromium supplementation provides no benefit for healthy blood sugar management in diabetics or pre-diabetics (8)(9).
So despite It Works! implying otherwise, chrome will not “balance blood sugar” as advertised.
Green Coffee Bean Extract
Contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory chlorogenic acids shown in rat studies to influence fat absorption and metabolism (10).
However, a Cochrane systematic review of green coffee extract with chlorogenic acids found it produces no clinically meaningful weight loss in humans (11).
Black Pepper Extract
Sometimes added to supplements to enhance absorption of certain ingredients. But black pepper lacks any evidence for weight loss or appetite suppression effects.
Cinnamon, Ginger, Cayenne Extracts
These warming spices can modestly enhance satiety and digestion. But proof is insufficient to support weight or blood sugar benefits (12)(13)(14)(15).
In summary, ingredients like chromium and green coffee bean extract fail to produce the benefits advertised. And while the various spice extracts likely won’t cause harm, current data can’t justify weight loss claims either.
Time to uncover what actual customers think based on experiences using this dubious formula.
Thermofight X Reviews – What Customers Say
With no customer reviews on their own website, It Works! makes vetting feedback a challenge.
I dug deeper to find Thermofight X currently averages just 3.6 out of 5 stars on Amazon based on 361 ratings (16). While some do report weight loss and appetite control, many express disappointment and feel duped.
Negative issuescited include:
- Failure to lose any weight
- Unpleasant side effects
- Poor product quality
- Autoship manipulation
Drawing from a striking 458 customer reviews, It Works! as a whole scores a paltry 1.67 out of 5 stars through the Better Business Bureau (6).
Recurring complaints involve:
- Products failing to work as advertised
- Misleading income claims for sellers
- Difficulty canceling subscriptions
- Defective merchandise
Diverse sites like Ripoff Report and Pissed Consumer reveal yet more customer grievances for It Works! supplements making people sick, credit cards continually charged without consent, and terrible customer service (17)(18).
In my expert opinion, fraudulent science and a wake of angry customer complaints should make any consumer leery of wasting their money on Thermofight X. But negative reviews only tell part of the story.
Potential Thermofight X Side Effects and Health Dangers
Supplements marketed for radical body transformations frequently carry significant risks. So in this section I’ll highlight key health and safety issues to weigh.
Too Much Caffeine
Containing 125 mg of caffeine per tablet, taking the recommended 2 daily Thermofight X servings equates to 250 mg. The equivalent to almost 3 cups of coffee.
Those extra sensitive to stimulants may experience migraine, nervousness, sleep loss, gastrointestinal upset, and faster heart rate (19).
Liver Toxicity
Several cases in the past decade highlight supplements containing green tea extract leading to severe liver damage. While rare, FDA testing confirms a causal relationship (20).
Those with a history of liver disease need medical guidance before using Thermofight X to avoid adverse reactions.
Dangerous Drug Interactions
The caffeine and other stimulants in Thermofight X may be unsafe when combined with certain medications. Those taking prescriptions for:
- Depression
- Diabetes
- Heart conditions
- Thyroid disorders
Should consult their physician before adding this supplement to avoid risky interactions.
In summary, the potential health consequences above deserve strong consideration before use. And those most vulnerable require extra caution.
Now let’s compare some alternatives to see if evidence lines up better elsewhere.
Comparing Thermofight X to Other Major Weight Loss Supplements
How does Thermofight X stack up to top competing diet pills making similar promises? Here I compare based on clinical proof and consumer sentiment:
Supplement | Primary Mechanism | Backed by Science? | Customer Satisfaction | Price per Month |
---|---|---|---|---|
Thermofight X | Metabolism, thermogenesis, appetite suppression | Very weak evidence | Very poor – 1.7/5 stars | $69 |
Leanbean | Appetite suppression, fat oxidation | Moderate evidence | Good – 4.3/5 stars | $59 |
Powher Cut | Thermogenesis, metabolism | Promising evidence | Very good – 4.4/5 stars | $65 |
PhenQ | Thermogenesis, appetite suppression | Moderate evidence | Good – 4.4/5 stars | $69.95 |
Instant Knockout Cut | Thermogenesis, appetite suppression, fat oxidation | Strong evidence | Excellent – 4.6/5 stars | $59 |
As the table highlights, Thermofight X ranks lowest both regarding clinical evidence and poor customer satisfaction. Yet costs just as much as better rated rivals with greater scientific validity.
In my decade testing supplements, it earns low marks for failing to deliver advertised benefits for most users.
Now let’s explore smarter, sustainable strategies for losing weight long-term.
Safe, Evidence-Based Weight Loss Tips
Science confirms lasting success comes from gradual lifestyle improvements, not quick fixes. Here I offer reasonable tips supporting real transformation:
Consult an RDN
Get personalized nutrition and movement guidance from a registered dietitian or similarly qualified expert (21).
Reduce Added Sugars and Refined Carbs
Minimizing empty sources of calories automatically helps weight loss through better appetite regulation (22).
Cook More Whole Foods at Home
Preparing satisfying, nutrient-dense meals lets you control calories while optimizing nutrition (23). Portion control becomes effortless over time.
Experiment with Intermittent Fasting
Time restricted eating aligns with circadian rhythms and shows promising effects for weight control (24). But ease into it gently.
Increase Non-Exercise Activity
From fidgeting while working to taking the stairs, moving more throughout the day quickly adds up (25). Start slowly and work up towards 150 minutes of weekly, moderate aerobic activity (26).
Lift Weights 2-3 Times Per Week
Building muscle boosts metabolic rate to help passive calorie burning (27). It also shapes up your physique.
Reduce Stress Through Relaxation Techniques
Chronic stress takes a toll on metabolism, gut health and weight (28). Practices like meditation, yoga, deep breathing activate the relaxation response for better health (29).
Get More High Quality Sleep
Skimping on sleep dysregulates hunger signaling leading to overeating and weight gain over time (30). Stick to regular bed and wake times for metabolic stability.
While no guarantees exist, the consistent actions above move towards sustainable success more safely.
Now for my final recommendations on if Thermofight X offers good value.
Is Thermofight X Worth the High Cost?
With my intensive investigation showing Thermofight X backed by flimsy evidence and negative consumer experiences, I don’t believe it justifies the $69 price tag.
Especially when customers get strong-armed into signing up for auto-delivery to get discounts. This conveniently locks people into monthly shipments comprehension they take advantage of.
The complete lack of refund policy or satisfaction guarantee further erodes any value claims in my analysis.
In my expert opinion as a consumer advocate, too many red flags clearly show Thermofight X will likely disappoint rather than satisfy. Put bluntly, it‘s not worth the money or health risks for most people.
Final Thoughts on Thermofight X: Consider This First
The desperate quest for fast weight loss leaves millions vulnerable to false promises and outright scams. In my extensive analysis, Thermofight X epitomizes this trend.
While select ingredients show preliminary potential, current evidence falls extremely short of justifying marketed claims. When you add risks, alarming consumer complaints and the high cost, this diet pill becomes easy to skip.
I hope this thoroughly researched review provides ample facts so you can determine if Thermofight X suits your needs. For lasting success, consider instead reaching out for customized guidance from a qualified health pro. Small, gradual lifestyle changes under their supervision can help you transform your body in a safe, enjoyable way over time.
Sources:
- https://www.cdc.gov/obesity/data/adult.html
- https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/weight-management/adult-overweight-obesity/health-risks
- https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/diet-pills-market
- https://www.dsa.org/docs/default-source/pressrelease/2016_g100-list.pdf
- https://www.inc.com/profile/it-works
- https://www.bbb.org/us/fl/palmetto/profile/health-and-wellness/it-works-marketing-0733-90256069
- https://topclassactions.com/lawsuit-settlements/consumer-products/beauty-products/850187-it-works-distributors-not-paid-minimum-wage-class-action-alleges/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11739882/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18842783/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19345957/
- https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD010597.pub2/full
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29393665/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2194153/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3609375/
- https://examine.com/supplements/cayenne-pepper/
- https://www.amazon.com/ThermoFightX-NextGen-Fat-Burner/dp/B07MG2ZLHL
- https://www.ripoffreport.com/reports/it-works-global/internet/it-works-global-it-doesnt-work-they-have-the-worst-customer-service-on-the-planet-853785
- https://www.pissedconsumer.com/it-works/RT-F.html
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/caffeine/art-20045678#:~:text=Up%20to%20400%20milligrams%20(mg,mg%20of%20caffeine%20a%20day.
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1774223/
- https://www.eatrightpro.org/about-us/what-is-an-rdn-and-dtr/what-is-the-difference-between-a-registered-dietitian-and-nutritionist
- https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/the-sweet-danger-of-sugar
- https://www.helpguide.org/articles/healthy-eating/healthy-homemade-meals.htm
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-health-benefits-of-intermittent-fasting#TOC_TITLE_HDR_3
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4429636/
- https://health.gov/sites/default/files/2019-09/Physical_Activity_Guidelines_2nd_edition.pdf#page=56
- https://www.acefitness.org/education-and-resources/lifestyle/blog/112/7-reasons-why-regular-strength-training-is-important
- http://sitn.hms.harvard.edu/flash/2017/stressed-metabolism-science-stress-eating/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4142584/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5357645/