Written by Andrew Lenau | ISSA CPT & Sports Nutritionist
Fact checked by Robert Iafelice, MS, RD, LDN
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Phenocal is a weight loss supplement manufactured by Pharmaxa Labs that claims to provide "dramatic weight loss results" due to its "highly effective and extremely potent ingredients." But are these just marketing claims, or is there actual scientific evidence to support their effectiveness?
In this Phenocal review, we are going to dive into the world of Phenocal and examine its ingredients, safety, customer reviews, and scientific evidence to give you an unbiased and comprehensive evaluation of this popular weight loss supplement. By the time you get to the end of this article, you will have a comprehensive understanding of whether Phenocal is a viable solution for your weight loss journey or if it's just another empty promise.
Phenocal is an incredible all-natural combination that will boost your energy levels and help you feel less hungry—an ideal combination for anyone trying to shed those extra pounds and inches...
What is Phenocal?
Phenocal, a dietary supplement produced by Pharmaxa Labs in the United States, is marketed as a solution for weight loss. It claims to boost metabolism, curb hunger, and increase energy levels. As the flagship product of a company that offers a variety of health and wellness supplements, Phenocal positions itself as the top fat burner on the market with unparalleled power. But do these claims hold up under scrutiny?
Phenocal: Pass or Fail?
Phenocal is a dietary supplement that claims to help individuals lose weight and improve their everyday health. However, after thoroughly examining the product and its ingredients, we conclude that there are better supplement options than Phenocal.
First and foremost, some of the active ingredients in Phenocal's herbal blend appear to be underdosed, based on medical studies. This raises concerns about the product's efficacy and effectiveness.
Additionally, the product contains ingredients like artificial dyes that may harm some people's health. Too much green tea extract can also be harmful; unfortunately, the amount is not listed on the label. Another red flag is the differing ingredient doses listed between the brand's website and Amazon page.
This inconsistency and lack of transparency are concerning and call into question the quality and reliability of the product. In conclusion, while Phenocal may contain some research-backed ingredients, the underdosing of key components and the presence of potentially harmful ingredients make it difficult for us to recommend this supplement.
If you're looking for a weight loss solution, we recommend seeking alternative products that are more transparent about their ingredients and have a better track record of efficacy.
Overall verdict: FAIL
Pros
- It has some good ingredients
- The B Vitamins can help with energy levels
- Glucomannan is an excellent addition for making you feel fuller for longer
Cons
- Most of the ingredients are in a proprietary blend, so you don't know how much of each is present
- Some of the claims are over exaggerated
- Official website and Amazon have varying ingredient doses
Phenocal is an incredible all-natural combination that will boost your energy levels and help you feel less hungry—an ideal combination for anyone trying to shed those extra pounds and inches...
13 Phenocal Ingredients
Phenocal contains twelve ingredients and an additional proprietary blend. Here's the complete list of ingredients and their benefits:
1. Vitamin D - 25mcg
Vitamin D, also commonly known as the "sunshine vitamin," has many benefits for overall health and wellness, including its potential impact on weight loss. Studies have shown that adequate vitamin D levels can help regulate insulin and glucose levels in the body, which can help reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
This, in turn, can lead to improved weight control, as uncontrolled blood sugar levels can lead to weight gain and difficulty losing weight. Vitamin D has also been linked to increased energy levels and improved muscle function, which can help increase physical activity levels and promote weight loss through exercise.
Vitamin D has displayed the ability to increase the feeling of fullness, reducing the likelihood of overeating and promoting healthier food choices.¹
2. Thiamine - 10mg
Thiamine, also referred to as Vitamin B1, has several potential benefits regarding weight loss. It helps the body convert carbohydrates into energy, increasing physical activity and boosting metabolism.
Thiamine also plays a role in maintaining a healthy digestive system, which is essential for weight loss. This can, in turn, help the body burn more calories and lose weight. Additionally, thiamine can improve mental clarity and reduce stress, which can help individuals make better food choices and avoid emotional eating.²
3. Riboflavin - 5mg
Riboflavin, also commonly referred to as Vitamin B2, is a micronutrient that plays a part in maintaining healthy body weight. Although riboflavin is not directly linked to weight loss, it helps boost metabolism and support overall health, leading to better weight management.
Riboflavin is crucial for producing energy in the body, as it helps convert carbohydrates, protein, and fat into energy. When the body has enough energy, it can function optimally, leading to improved physical activity and better weight management. Additionally, a riboflavin deficiency can slow down your metabolism, making it much more difficult to lose weight.³
4. Niacin - 25mg
Niacin, commonly referred to as Vitamin B3, is an essential nutrient with several health benefits, including its potential role in weight loss. Research has shown that Niacin can aid weight loss by regulating metabolism, reducing fat storage, and increasing energy levels.
The vitamin helps break down fats, carbohydrates, and proteins in the body, converting them into energy that can be used during physical activity. This can help to burn calories, leading to weight loss.
Additionally, Niacin has been found to reduce insulin resistance, which can help regulate blood sugar levels and prevent overeating. Furthermore, Niacin has been shown to positively affect mood and mental health, which can also play a role in weight loss by reducing stress-induced overeating.⁴
5. Vitamin B6 - 6mg
Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, plays a crucial role in multiple biological processes in the body, including metabolism, hormone regulation, and neurotransmitter synthesis. As a result, it can have indirect benefits for weight loss.
Vitamin B6 is an important micronutrient that is essential for the metabolism of macronutrients and can help the body convert food into energy, making it easier for the body to burn stored fat. Additionally, vitamin B6 can help regulate levels of the hunger hormone leptin, which can help control appetite and reduce cravings.
Vitamin B6 also plays a role in synthesizing neurotransmitters that regulate mood, which can help reduce stress and anxiety, which are often linked to overeating and weight gain.⁵
6. Folate - 83.3mcg DFE (50mcg - Folic Acid)
Folate, also known as Folic Acid, is a B vitamin with several important bodily functions. While its primary role is not directly related to weight loss, some benefits of folate can contribute to a healthier weight.
For example, folate produces red blood cells and maintains DNA, which is essential for overall health. Additionally, a study found that individuals with higher folate levels in their blood tended to have a healthier body weight and body composition than those with lower folate levels.
This may be because folate helps regulate homocysteine levels, an amino acid linked to obesity and other metabolic disorders.⁶
7. Vitamin B12 - 50mcg
Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient involved in various metabolic processes in the body. A deficiency of this vitamin can lead to several health problems, including fatigue, depression, anemia, and even weight gain.
A study has suggested that taking Vitamin B12 supplements can help people with a deficiency in this nutrient to lose weight. The study showed that the supplement helps improve energy levels and reduces fatigue, making it easier for people to exercise and stick to a healthy diet.
Additionally, Vitamin B12 is typically involved in the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates, which can help to speed up weight loss by increasing the body's ability to burn fat and reduce food cravings. Vitamin B12 is also essential for preserving a healthy gut, which can further contribute to weight loss by helping to regulate digestion and metabolism.⁷
8. Biotin - 50mcg
Biotin, also called Vitamin H, is a type of vitamin B that plays an essential role in the body's metabolic processes. Although there is limited research on biotin's direct weight loss benefits, some studies suggest that it may help regulate glucose levels and support a healthy metabolism, which are both important factors in promoting weight loss.
Additionally, biotin is essential for producing energy from food, which may help improve energy levels and reduce fatigue, making it easier to stick to a healthy lifestyle and achieve weight loss goals.⁸
9. Pantothenic acid - 10mg
Pantothenic acid, also known as Vitamin B5, is essential for maintaining a healthy metabolism and overall health. It helps break down fats and carbohydrates, which helps in weight loss.
Studies have shown that pantothenic acid can help reduce hunger and cravings and boost energy levels, leading to a more active lifestyle. This, in turn, can help with weight loss. Additionally, pantothenic acid produces hormones that regulate fat metabolism and the synthesis of neurotransmitters that control appetite, mood, and energy levels.
When the body has sufficient pantothenic acid, it can help regulate these processes and ultimately lead to weight loss.⁹
10. Chromium - 100mcg
Chromium is a mineral essential for the body's normal functioning and has been found to have several potential health benefits, including weight loss. Chromium has been shown to play a role in regulating insulin levels in the body, which can impact weight loss.
When insulin levels are well-regulated, the body is better able to process glucose and convert it into energy. Additionally, some research suggests that chromium may help reduce cravings and promote feelings of fullness, leading to reduced calorie intake and weight loss.¹⁰
11. Fucoxanthin - 10mg
Fucoxanthin is a natural carotenoid pigment found in brown seaweed, such as wakame and kombu. It has been suggested as a weight loss aid due to some preliminary studies that have found a relationship between fucoxanthin consumption and decreased body fat levels.
However, more research is needed to completely understand its potential effects on weight loss and its safety and efficacy as a weight loss supplement. While the precise mechanisms by which fucoxanthin may promote weight loss are not yet clear, some studies suggest that it may increase the activity of specific proteins that regulate the breakdown of fat in cells.
Additionally, fucoxanthin has been shown to increase the activity of thermogenic proteins, which are involved in producing heat and burning calories, thus potentially leading to weight loss.¹¹
12. BioPerine® - 2.5mg
BioPerine, a natural extract derived from black pepper, has been shown to enhance the bioavailability and absorption of various nutrients and supplements, including weight loss products. While it is not a direct weight loss ingredient, BioPerine can increase the effectiveness of other weight loss compounds by allowing the body to absorb and utilize them more efficiently.
In addition, BioPerine has been found to have thermogenic properties, which means it can help increase the body's metabolism and promote fat burning.¹²
13. Proprietary blend - 2.23g
Phenocal has a proprietary blend of ingredients, including Green Tea Leaf extract, Umbrella arum Root Powder,L-tyrosine, Chocolate Bean Extract, Hoodia gordonii, Mate leaf extract, Garcinia fruit extract, Green Tea Leaf Powder, L-Tryptophan, CLA, 5-HTP, coleus forskohlii root extract, Evodiamine, B-Phenylethylamine HCl and Glucomannan. With each serving consisting of three capsules, there is 2230mg of this blend. Also depending on where you get the product from, these ingredients might change.
However, proprietary blends can be a concern for consumers as they conceal the exact quantity of each ingredient, making it difficult to determine the supplement's potential effectiveness. For example, the proprietary blend contains Glucomannan, which can effectively suppress appetite.
Unfortunately, due to it being in the blend, it is difficult to tell whether you're ingesting an adequate amount.
Claimed Benefits of Phenocal
Phenocal is marketed as a weight loss supplement, and its makers claim that it can help in reducing weight by:
1. Increases metabolism
The increasing popularity of fat burner supplements is due to their numerous benefits for individuals seeking to burn stubborn body fat. These supplements speed up metabolism, boost thermogenesis, and elevate the resting metabolic rate, enabling the body to burn more calories.
As a result, the body stores less fat over time, helping individuals achieve their desired physique. One of the claimed benefits of Phenocal is that it can boost the metabolism, thereby helping people to lose weight.
Phenocal claims that some of the key ingredients in Phenocal are said to contribute to its metabolism-boosting properties, including green tea leaf extract, chromium, hoodia, and l-tyrosine.
2. Promotes Rapid weight loss
While no supplement can single-handedly guarantee significant weight loss, Phenocal claims that it can be a helpful addition to a healthy lifestyle for those seeking to lose weight. Fat-burning supplements address various aspects of weight loss, including metabolism, appetite, and energy levels.
For best results, it is important to maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, get adequate sleep, and take a fat-burning supplement. This holistic weight loss approach can improve overall fat loss outcomes.
3. Increases energy levels
Phenocal contains stimulant ingredients that can provide an energy boost. These ingredients can increase blood flow, endurance, and focus while working out. Resulting in more intense workouts that last for a long time.
Phenocal also contains ingredients that aid in converting stored fatty acids, increasing energy production on a cellular level.
4. Suppresses appetite and cravings
Along with improving insulin levels, Phenocal claims that its ingredients can reduce cravings for unhealthy foods high in sugar and carbohydrates and increase the feeling of fullness. By reducing cravings and promoting feelings of satiety, Phenocal claims can help individuals break the cycle of unhealthy eating habits and make healthier food choices.
Additionally, the appetite-suppressing properties of the ingredients can help limit snacking, making it easier to stick to a healthy eating plan and reach weight loss goals.
5. Supports insulin levels
When it comes to Phenocal, the unique combination of ingredients in this weight loss supplement can offer various benefits to support weight loss goals. One of the benefits is related to insulin sensitivity, which is improved through the use of certain ingredients.
Insulin sensitivity refers to how someone's body will respond to insulin and handle blood sugar levels. When insulin sensitivity is improved, the body becomes better at using insulin to regulate blood sugar levels, leading to improved metabolism and energy levels.
This can help in craving reduction and overeating, which are two factors that can contribute to weight gain.
6. Targets body fat
Phenocal is a fat-burning supplement that claims to harness the power of natural ingredients to aid in the weight loss process. One of the key ingredients, Niacin, works to help the body metabolize carbs and fats.
Phenocal includes some stimulants that could enhance the metabolic improvements achieved through exercise.
Side effects of Phenocal
There are some reported side effects of using Phenocal, although they are generally mild and temporary. Some people have reported feeling jittery, experiencing headaches, having trouble sleeping, and experiencing an upset stomach.
Cortisol, a stress hormone, plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism and affects virtually every organ and tissue in the body. Fat burners have been observed to increase cortisol levels if taken in excessive quantities or for an extended period. When cortisol levels are elevated, it can have the opposite effect of what a fat-burning supplement aims to achieve, resulting in weight gain, increased fatty deposits, higher blood sugar levels, and high blood pressure.
Additionally, fat burners can negatively impact mental health, causing nervousness, intense mood swings, aggressive behavior, and depression. The stimulants present in fat burners can also interact with existing mental health conditions and trigger panic attacks or even suicidal thoughts.
While the purpose of taking a fat burner may be to attain a desired physique, if it comes at the cost of one's mental well-being, it is not worth it. It is always important to talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or are taking any medications.
If you experience adverse effects while using Phenocal, stop taking the supplement immediately, and seek medical attention if necessary.
Phenocal Customer Reviews
Based on various customer reviews, the results of using Phenocal for weight loss appear to be mixed. Some customers report experiencing significant weight loss and increased energy levels, while others have not noticed any noticeable changes.
Some customers also reported experiencing unpleasant side effects such as headaches and digestive issues. When writing this article, Phenocal has an average review rating of 3.0 out of five stars on Amazon.
One positive review from a verified purchaser claims the supplement is effective for weight loss:
One negative review from a verified purchaser claims Phenocal wasn't effective for weight loss:
Who should take Phenocal?
Phenocal is marketed as a weight loss supplement for individuals looking for a natural and safe way to support their weight loss journey. It is recommended for adults who follow a healthy diet and regular exercise regimen and want to boost their energy levels while reducing food cravings.
However, it is always important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new dietary supplement, especially if you have any medical conditions or are taking any medications. It is worth noting that there is nothing that Phenocal offers that hasn't been done better by other supplements.
If you are looking for better alternatives, check out the options in this article.
When and how should you take Phenocal?
For optimal results, it is advised by the manufacturer to take a daily dose of 6 capsules, with three consumed in the morning and the remaining three in the afternoon. Each bottle of Phenocal contains 150 capsules, providing a supply of 25 days if the recommended daily dosage is followed consistently.
Taking Phenocal with food and water is essential to promote proper absorption. The company emphasizes the recommended use to ensure the maximum effectiveness of the supplement.
3 Phenocal Alternatives
Phenocal is not the best option out there. However, it does incorporate some favorable ingredients in its blend. Unfortunately, due to the proprietary blend, the potency of these ingredients in promoting weight loss remains to be determined.
Additionally, it is pricey and needs more scientific support for its weight loss claims. We recommend opting for more reputable fat-loss supplements like the three listed below.
1. PhenQ
PhenQ is a men's fat burner manufactured by Wolfson Brands Ltd, a UK-based company. The product is produced in an FDA-approved facility, and its formula was created by nutrition specialists and rigorously tested for its effectiveness.
The high-quality, five-in-one formula contains all-natural ingredients like CapsiMax® powder, caffeine anhydrous, chromium picolinate, nopal cactus fiber, L-carnitine fumarate, calcium carbonate, and α-lacy's reset. It helps suppress appetite, prevent fat accumulation, target stubborn body fat, improve mood, and increase energy levels.
The formula also includes metabolism boosters, thermogenic ingredients, essential amino acids, and healthy dietary fiber to boost metabolism and burn fat at rest safely. Each bottle contains 60 pills, with a recommended daily dosage of two capsules, making it a convenient option for those who struggle with multiple dosages.
PhenQ can be taken for as long as needed with no required breaks or cycles, and it comes with free shipping and a 60-day money-back guarantee. Overall, PhenQ is an excellent choice for men struggling to burn fat through diet and exercise alone. For a more in-depth breakdown, check out our full review of PhenQ.
Pros
- Five-in-one fat-burning formula
- Suppresses appetite
- Natural ingredients
- Low risk of side effects
- Vegan-friendly
Cons
- Only available on the manufacturer's website
- It contains stimulants that can keep you awake at night
PhenQ is a unique and powerful new slimming formula that will help you achieve what others are just promising. With PhenQ weight loss pills...
3. PhenGold
PhenGold, manufactured by Swiss Research Labs, is a multi-action formula that aims to enhance your body's natural fat-burning abilities. This fat burner claims to burn fat, reduce cravings, boost metabolism, mood, and energy, and is made with clinically proven ingredients.
PhenGold is expertly crafted using only the most extensively researched and clinically proven ingredients to bring you one of the most effective weight loss supplements without needing a prescription. Produced in an FDA-registered facility that adheres to GMP certification standards, PhenGold is manufactured with strict quality control and assurance measures to ensure a safe and trustworthy product.
You can purchase PhenGold confidently, knowing you are getting a high-quality weight loss supplement with a money-back guarantee. The supplement comes in pills that are easy to swallow and take effect immediately after use. Check out our full review of PhenGold.
Pros
- Packed with maximum-strength doses
- Safe and natural
- FDA-registered and GMP certified
- Soy, gluten, and dairy free
- Vegan-friendly
Cons
- It is missing Glucomannan
By increasing your metabolism, activating powerful fat-burning hormones and helping control hunger and cravings, PhenGold can help you lose weight more quickly...
Phenocal FAQs
Does Phenocal make your heart race?
Phenocal is a dietary supplement that is designed to aid in weight loss. Some of the ingredients in Phenocal, such as Yerba Mate and green tea extract, are known to increase heart rate.
There have been reports of some people experiencing a fast or racing heart after taking Phenocal, but this is not a side effect that many people experience. If you have any concerns with your heart rate, either reduce your daily dose or stop taking it.
How much weight can you lose with Phenocal?
The weight you can lose with Phenocal can vary depending on several factors, such as diet, exercise, and individual metabolism. According to the manufacturer, Phenocal is intended to support weight loss through a combination of its active ingredients, which are claimed to help with appetite control, increase energy levels, and boost metabolism.
However, as with any dietary supplement, the results can vary from person to person. Phenocal claims that 88% of users see a significant reduction in their overall body weight within the first 28 days.
How fast does Phenocal work?
While the journey of sustainable weight loss is typically gradual and occurs over an extended period, there have been reports of users experiencing the positive impact of Phenocal's formulation as soon as 12 hours after consuming the product.
Does Phenocal affect blood pressure?
Phenocal can affect blood pressure since it contains several ingredients that could affect blood pressure, including stimulants.
Summary
Phenocal may contain some ingredients that have been shown to have the potential for weight loss; however, we cannot fully endorse this supplement. According to medical research, some of the key components in the blend may need to be more adequately dosed. It also includes a proprietary blend, which we don't like due to the doses of ingredients being hidden.
The inconsistency in ingredient doses between the company's website and Amazon page is also concerning, and we recommend finding other dietary supplements. If you're looking for a high-quality fat burner, we recommend checking out PhenQ, or PhenGold.
Looking for a full breakdown of some better weight loss supplement options? Have a look at our posts that cover the top fat burners for women or the best fat burners for men on the market.
References
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- Boston, 677 Huntington Avenue, and Ma 02115 +1495‑1000. “Niacin – Vitamin B3.” The Nutrition Source, 6 July 2020
- Parra, Marcelina, et al. “Vitamin B6 and Its Role in Cell Metabolism and Physiology.” Cells, vol. 7, no. 7, 22 July 2018, p. 84
- National Institutes of Health. "Office of Dietary Supplements - Folate." Nih.gov, 2017,
- National Institutes of Health. "Office of Dietary Supplements - Vitamin B12." Nih.gov, 9 Mar. 2022
- Rodríguez Meléndez, R. “[Importance of Biotin Metabolism].” Revista de Investigacion Clinica; Organo Del Hospital de Enfermedades de La Nutricion, vol. 52, no. 2, 1 Mar. 2000, pp. 194–199
- Folate, Institute of Medicine (US) Standing Committee on the Scientific Evaluation of Dietary Reference Intakes and its Panel on, et al. Pantothenic Acid. National Academies Press (US), 1998
- "Office of Dietary Supplements - Chromium." Ods.od.nih.gov, ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Chromium-HealthProfessional/#:~:text=35%2C36%5D.
- Bae, Minkyung, et al. "Health Benefits of Fucoxanthin in the Prevention of Chronic Diseases." Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Molecular and Cell Biology of Lipids, vol. 1865, no. 11, Nov. 2020, p. 158618
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Andrew Lenau
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