Is Plexus Banned On Amazon

It's a MLM scam. One of my cousins is wrapped up in it right now. The product was banned from Amazon and the company has received a warning letter from the FDA for their health claims. I also want to point out that Plexus should not be purchased from Amazon because the company does not allow that. If you purchase from Amazon you have no way of knowing if product is old or whatever. There is no 60 day guarantee as well from what I hear. Amazon.com: plexus products. Plexus Slim Microbiome 30 count and Plexus Metaburn 60 capsule Bottle. 3.8 out of 5 stars 24. 55 ($18.44/Count) FREE Shipping. Only 2 left in stock - order soon. Superfoods Company Superfood Tabs, Berry Flavor, 30 Count, Vegan, Daily Health Support, Boosts Energy and More, 1-Pack. Plexus Lean is a meal replacement shake created by a US-based nutrition company named Plexus Worldwide. One pouch of Plexus Lean costs $52.95, contains 14 meals and will last users between 4-14 days based on the directions of replacing 1-3 meals per day; it is available from the official Plexus Lean website, Amazon and various other online.

Update 8/21/19 The Plexus Slim Accelerator Plus supplement (Accelerator +) is said to have 'Synergistic benefits help increase the effectiveness of Plexus Slim.' The product is also claimed to 'increase energy', 'suppress appetite' and 'speed up weight loss and fat inches.' Sounds good, but does it work? Is it safe? Accelerator Plus is a new formula that is significantly different from the original Accelerator formula. It contains new ingredients. By the end of this review, you will have a better understanding of whether Accelerator Plus is right for you.

Who Makes Accelerator Plus?

The Accelerator Plus supplement is a product of Plexus WorldWide Inc. which is located in Arizona. I cover the company and other things in my review of Plexus Slim so do read that for additional information. When this review was created, the Better Business Bureau gives Plexus WorldWide a rating of A+. See the BBB file for updates and more information.

Plexus Accelerator+ Ingredients

According to the bottle, Plexus Slim Accelerator Plus has the following ingredients:

mg=milligrams. mcg=micrograms

DV=Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie per day diet.

Other ingredients listed

• Hemicellulose (vegetable capsule)
• Rice flower
• Magnesium stearate
• Titanium dioxide

Previously, the product also contained NuFlow which was used to stabilize the powder in the Accelerator and prevent it from clumping. NuFlow is no longer listed.

Accelerator Plus Research

I searched the Plexus Slim website for research on the Accelerator but did not find any. The product website has stated that:

'When taken with Plexus Slim, the Accelerator + helps speed up weight loss or helps people overcome weight plateaus.'

But, they offer no proof that the combination of these products provides any added benefits over Plexus Slim alone. If we go back to the In the non-published clinical trial on Plexus Slim, it appears that the 8 people in the trial did not use the Accelerator but rather only Plexus Slim alone.

Tip. For more on the Plexus Slim clinical trial, see my review of Plexus Slim New Formula.

So, where is the proof that the Accelerator Plus adds any benefits to Plexus Slim alone?

Since the Accelerator Plus supplement appears to have no published peer-reviewed studies on it, let's now analyze the product by its ingredients and see what we can learn. I will show the weight loss research on each ingredient ―with an emphasis on the Accelerator's proprietary blend ―and in this way, hopefully, shed some light on what might be going on.

The Vitamins and Minerals

The Accelerator Plus supplement contains these vitamins and minerals:

• Vitamin B6
• B12
• Calcium

I don't believe any of these ingredients contributes significantly to the product. That said, I do want to touch on a couple of the ingredients because they show up a lot in other supplements.

1. Niacin

The form of niacin used in Accelerator Plus is niacinamide. Some people report flushing of the face after taking niacin but niacinamide should not do this.

Niacinamide is getting very sexy in the anti-aging world. See the Nicotinimide Rriboside review for more insights.

2. Vitamin B12

The Accelerator Plus supplement has 500 mcg of this vitamin which is 8334% more than people need to be healthy. In some circles, vitamin B12 is thought to help people lose weight ― despite any proof that it does. For more info see my review on Vitamin B12 and weight loss.

Vitamin B12 might also be found in weight loss supplements because some medications that treat diabetes can deplete B12 levels. Since people who take weight loss products may have type II diabetes and take these types of medications, on the surface, it might seem logical to add vitamin B12. That said since we store vitamin B12, it often a couple of years for a deficiency to show up.

While the lack of B12 may make people feel tired (due to anemia), vitamin B12 supplements do not boost energy levels in those who are not lacking in this nutrient.

2. Chromium Picolinate

Chromium is often used in weight loss supplements because of some evidence that it might help insulin work better, and in this way help reduce blood sugar levels. This is actually somewhat controversial because not all research supports that chromium works. For example, in this 2012 study, insulin was less efficient (in other words, insulin didn't work as well) in those who received chromium picolinate.

For more information, see my review of Chromium Picolinate and Weight loss.

Accelerator Plus Proprietary Blend

I will list the relevant weight loss research on the ingredients in the proprietary blend in order as they appear on the Accelerator Plus label. This is because ingredients are often listed in order of abundance. In other words, since yerba mate is the first ingredient in the list, the Accelerator Plus likely contains the most of this and the least green tea extract, since this ingredient is listed last.

Yerba Mate

Its scientific name is Ilex paraguariensis. In some studies, it's also called 'yerba mate.' I searched the national library of medicine for:

• 'Yerba mate and weight loss'

Most of the studies I saw involved giving yerba mate to lab rats or mice. Since I'm not a big fan of mice or rat studies as the sole basis for the use of supplements, I'll only briefly list them here:

• 2012 study. Herba mate helps rats on a high fat diet lose weight

• 2009 study: Herba mate helps mice on a high-fat diet gain less weight

• 2013 study: Test tube study noting herba mate might play a role in fat cell formation

What about people? I didn't see any human studies showing that herba mate helping people lose weight. What's up with that? Herba mate contains caffeine and this may be why it's in Accelerator Plus.

In this 2001 study titled, Weight loss and delayed gastric emptying following a South American herbal preparation in overweight patients, a solution containing yerba mate, guarana and Damiana, was noted to help people lose weight. But this study isn't relevant to our discussion because it involved the use of other herbs that are not found in Accelerator Plus.

Higenamine

This is a phytochemical that is also a heart stimulant. It is also sometimes called Norcoclaurine. Searching for clinical databases for:

• Higenamine and weight loss
• Higenamine obesity
• Higenamine metabolism

does not show any studies showing this compound works.

In one investigation, researchers noted that a supplement that contained higenamine, given to 16 healthy people, increased calorie burning and the amount of fat being used for fuel. While this is an interesting study, the supplement used also contained caffeine and Yohimbe. Since Accelerator Plus does not contain Yohimbe, this study is not relevant.

Tip. For more on yohimbe, see my review of the male sex supplement Androzene.

Another reason why I don't feel the study is relevant is that the people tested were 'healthy' and in their 20s. What about people who are not healthy and older?

Hordenine

Hordenine is also a phytochemical extract. It's derived from barley. It scientific name is Hordeum vulgare. Hordenine is a stimulant. Technically, compounds like this are called sympathomimetic because they mimic the effects of adrenaline. This means hordenine seems to have some stimulant properties. In an attempt to determine if hordenine helped weight loss, I searched clinical databases for:

• Hordenine obesity
• Hordenine weight loss
• Hordeum vulgare weight loss
• Hordeum vulgare obesity

I found no studies showing if hordenine helped weight loss in humans or lab animals. Granted, lack of evidence does not necessarily mean something doesn't work, but it makes me wonder if hordenine was chosen to be an ingredient in Accelerator Plus specifically because of its alleged stimulant properties?

Hawthorne

The scientific name for this herb is Crataegus monogyna. Accelerator Plus actually lists 'hawthorn leaf extract' as an ingredient, but they don't tell us what extract of the hawthorn leaf they use. This makes evaluating the herb difficult because different extract might have different effects.

Hawthorn is said to make the heart pump better and because of this, the herb was used in some settings to help, a serious medical condition called congestive heart failure. How much it helps is open to debate. In one study, hawthorn appeared to make heart problems worse.

Warning: Do not self medicate with hawthorn if you have heart problems. Speak to your doctor first. See the side effects section for more information on hawthorn.

While there is no evidence that hawthorn helps weight loss, because of its effects on heart pumping, I speculate the idea behind why this herb is in Accelerator Plus is for this reason: A heart that pumps more blood also pumps more oxygen and nutrients to tissues and organs, in the hopes that this will give people more energy. This is my guess given the premise of what Accelerator Plus is supposed to do.

I've seen hawthorn in other supplements I've looked at before such as:

• Zi Xiu Tang (weight loss supplement)
• Slim Trim U (weight loss supplement)
• Avalowerin (blood pressure supplement)

I've also written a review of Hawthorn as well.

5-HTP

The scientific name for this is 5-hydroxytryptophan. As the name suggests, 5 HTP is derived from tryptophan, a non-essential amino acid that we naturally make every day. 5 HTP helps us make a brain chemical called serotonin. Elevated serotonin levels appear to improve mood as well as reduce appetite.

In fact, some weight loss drugs such as Belviq, and the now banned drug, sibutramine, function by raising serotonin levels.

There is some evidence that 5 HTP might help weight loss in people. In a small 1998 study titled Effects of oral 5-hydroxy-tryptophan on energy intake and macronutrient selection in non-insulin dependent diabetic patients, 750 mg of 5HTP a day for 2 weeks, lost weight and reduced their intake of carbs and fats.

These results were similar to a small 1992 study involving 20 overweight women, where 900 mg of 5 HTP for 12 weeks resulted in weight loss and carb intake.

In a 1989 study titled, The effects of oral 5-hydroxytryptophan administration on feeding behavior in obese adult female subjects, 19 women were given 5 HTP or a placebo for five weeks. In this study 5 HTP caused the women to lose weight and eat less food. The amount of 5 HTP used in this study was 8 mg per kilogram of body weight.

Tip. A kilogram is 2.2 pounds. So, for a 200 pound person in this study, this would equal 200 / 2.2 =91 kg and 91 kg x 8 mg = 727 mg per day.

How much 5HTP is in Accelerator Plus? They don't tell us but I'm guessing it is less than used in these three studies. This because the entire proprietary blend of all the ingredients in Accelerator Plus only adds up to 950 mg, and 5HTP is near the bottom of the ingredients list. This says to me that there is probably little 5HTP. Maybe less would work just as well, I don't know?

Green Tea Leaf Extract

Green tea contains many compounds and we are not told what extract of the green tea leaf Accelerator Plus contains. Could the extract used by caffeine? Green tea also contains other compounds such as theobromine and Theophylline which have some structural similarities to caffeine.

Accelerator Plus Stimulant Ingredients:

• Herba mate
• Higenamine
• Hordenine (maybe)
• Caffeine (if it contains caffeine)

Summary of Ingredient Actions

Looking at the ingredients in the proprietary blend as a whole, they seem to fall into two categories:

• Those that act as stimulants

• Those that might raise serotonin levels

This is analogous to how some weight loss drugs work are supposed to work. That said, how effective the combination of ingredients in Accelerator Plus would be, I can't say since there doesn't appear to be any published research on the product.

Ingredients With Evidence

Based on the research, it appears that 5 HTP has the most human evidence that it might help some people lose weight. That's not to say 5 HTP is a slam dunk because there aren't a lot of studies, but there is more in support of 5 HTP than the other ingredients.

Theoretically, is possible that weight loss benefits might be greater with the combination of ingredients in Accelerator Plus but without proof, it's hard to say.

Accelerator Plus And Plexus Slim: Better Together?

On the product website, the claim was made that Plexus Accelerator Plus has 'Synergistic benefits help increase the effectiveness of Plexus Slim.' But the company provides no proof that this is true. Even in the clinical study used to tout the effectiveness of Plexus Slim, there is no mention of any Accelerator used.

Theoretically, if the Plexus Accelerator plus does what it's touted to do, there may be an enhanced effect, but until somebody tests the combination against Plexus Slim alone, it's anyone's guess.

Accelerator Plus vs. The Old Accelerator

Remember, Accelerator Plus is the new version of Plexus Accelerator. I cover the ingredients in the original Plexus Accelerator, in my review of Plexus Slim, so read that for additional information, but here is a quick side-by-side comparison of the old Accelerator vs. the new Plexus Accelerator Plus for those who were curious:

*See my review of Plexus Slim for more about the ingredient called Gerana X

Comparing both old and new products side-by-side, it appears that the only ingredients that the Accelerator + has in common with the old formula are:

• Green tea
• Calcium

Buy Accelerator+

Plexus Accelerator is not available in stores like Target, Walmart, Costco, CVS, Walgreens or Rite Aid. It can only be purchased by Plexus Ambassitors or on the Plexus website.

How Much Is Accelerator+?

The supplement costs $39.95 for a one month supply. This price is valid if you are only ordering for a single month. If you go on auto-shipments, the price is $33.95.

Accelerator Plus Side Effects

I'm not a fan of stimulant-based weight loss supplements. I think the risks outweigh the benefits. I feel the same way about stimulant weight loss drugs too. If you are have experienced any side effects from Accelerator Plus please leave a comment so others can benefit.

Here are some things to consider when taking this supplement. This list is not complete:

• If you have any problems with your heart, blood pressure, kidneys or liver, speak to your doctor first. Show them the ingredients. If they are not familiar with the ingredients, show them to a pharmacist or dietitian.
• If you take ANY medications, speak to your doctor, pharmacist or dietitian first.
• Stop taking at least 2 weeks before having surgery
• The product may cause irregular heart beating
• Don't use if you take any blood thinner medications
• Don't take if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Since herba mate contains caffeine, it might increase blood pressure in some people. In a 2013 review of herba mate and cancer research studies titled Maté consumption and the risk of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: a meta-analysis, researchers noted that consumption of herba mate was associated with cancer of the esophagus.

There is some evidence that hordenine might cause a false positive test result for opiate use. Because hordenine can have a stimulating effect, theoretically, it might increase heart rate and blood pressure, although I can't find any evidence that it does. See the Kratom review for more insights.

Some research suggests smokers who use herba mate may be at a greater risk of cancer than non-smokers. Would taking capsules that contained herba mate for short periods of time do the same thing? This is unknown.

Higenamine can accelerate heart rate, and as far as I can tell, it has not been adequately tested in humans for safety.

The Plexus Slim website has said this about the Accelerator Plus:

Warnings: Plexus Worldwide, Inc. products are not intended for expectant or nursing mothers. If you have a heart condition, high blood pressure or any other cardiovascular condition, please consult with a physician before taking this product. Not intended for children under the age of 18. Avoid taking Plexus Worldwide, Inc. products with cold medicines containing pseudoephedrine, ephedrine, PPA, or products containing high amounts of caffeine. Before starting this or any other supplementation, consult a physician first. If unpleasant effects occur, discontinue use.

Given the ingredients in the product, I think these cautions are appropriate. Here is a shortlist of theoretical issues that occurred to me as I was writing this review.

Hawthorn can interact with high blood pressure medications.I believe people who have:

• Heart problems
• Blood pressure problems
• Kidney problems
• Liver problems

or who take medications for these health issues, should speak to their doctor before taking hawthorn or supplements that contain this herb. Since many of those who take this Plexus Slim supplements may be overweight, it's possible they may have some of these health problems.

Some people have reported heart palpitations and dizziness after taking the hawthorn. Hawthorn can also interact with many types of medications such as those used to treat high blood pressure. Because Plexus Slim does not tell us the hawthorn extract they use, or how much is in the Accelerator Plus, it's impossible to know what side effects ―if any ―people might experience.

Because 5 HTP can raise serotonin levels, theoretically it might interact with antidepressant medications that also raise serotonin. This combination might ―in theory ―make serotonin levels go too high and cause a serious condition called serotonin syndrome. Symptoms of this condition can include but are not limited to:

• Rapid heart rate
• Elevated blood pressure
• Vomiting
• Muscle twitching

I can't discuss 5 HTP without mentioning Eosinophilia–myalgia syndrome (EMS), which is a very rare disorder characterized by debilitating muscle pain and high levels of immune cells called eosinophils. This disorder was big news in the late 1980s because it resulted in the deaths of over 30 people. All of these people were taking the amino acid, tryptophan.

While it is still debatable what caused EMS ―tryptophan itself or a contamination product in the tryptophan ―I mention this because there is speculation that 5 HTP itself may also raise the risk of EMS. Given how many people have taken 5 HTP over the years, I think the risk ―if it really exists ―is pretty low. See the EMS Network website for more information.

Does Accelerator Plus Work?

I can't find any good proof that the Plexus Accelerator plus raises the metabolic rate in humans or that it causes extra calorie burning or weight loss. If you read the comments below, take note that some say Accelerator Plus doesn't work. Interestingly some say the same thing about the new Plexus Slim formula also.

Do You Have Any Questions?

[Last updated 23rd January, 2019]

A wide range of Plexus products claim to boost metabolism and promote weight loss.

But how much of these claims are based on reliable scientific research?

This article takes a look at the evidence behind each Plexus supplement to see if they really can help you lose weight.

Contents

What are Plexus Products?

Plexus Worldwide sells several health products on their website and through their brand ambassadors.

Their products include supplements for:

• Weight loss
• Multivitamins and minerals
• Antioxidants
• Omega-3s
• Probiotics
• 'Detox'
• Skincare

Plexus states that their products 'have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration' (FDA) and are 'not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease' .

This is likely a response to a warning from the FDA in 2014 about the misleading health claims attached to some of their products.

Below, I'll examine eight of Plexus' weight loss products to see if any are worth your time and money.

Summary: Plexus Worldwide sells a variety of health-related products, including their popular weight loss supplements.

Plexus Slim Products

Plexus advises taking this weight loss supplement with 12-20 oz (355-590 ml)of water once or twice per day, 30-60 minutes before a meal.

Similar products to Plexus Slim include 18 Shake and Isagenix.

There are two different varieties: Plexus Slim Microbiome Activating and Plexus Slim Hunger Control.

Both varieties contain chromium polynicotinate, which is a combination of the mineral chromium and niacin (vitamin B3).

Both also contain the Plexus Slim Blend, which is made from:

• Green coffee bean extract
• Garcinia cambogia (a tropical fruit) extract
• Alpha lipoic acid (a fatty acid)

Plexus Slim Hunger Control

This product contains 20 calories per drink and is available in 3 flavors: blood orange, lemon and lime.

Specific claims related to this product include:

• Improved weight loss
• Helps you feel fuller for longer
• Helps keep blood sugars at a healthy level

Main ingredients:

• Plexus Slim Blend (531mg)
• Chromium Polynicotinate (200mcg)
• Polydextrose (6250mg): a type of fiber that can be used to replace sugar in food products

Polydextrose is considered safe to consume, though it can cause diarrhea when consumed in large amounts (1).

Plexus Slim Microbiome Activating

This product contains 5 calories per drink and is also available in 3 flavors: raspberry, lemon and watermelon.

Specific claims related to this product include:

• Improved weight loss
• Increased metabolism
• Helps keep blood sugars at a healthy level
• Promotes the growth of gut-friendly bacteria

Main Ingredients:

• Plexus Slim Blend (531mg)
• Chromium Polynicotinate (200mg)
• Xylooligosaccharides (1000mg)

Xylooligosaccharides (XOS) is a prebiotic that feeds an important type of bacteria in the gut called bifidobacteria (2).

That said, prebiotics like this can cause unpleasant side effects for those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) like wind, bloating, pain, diarrhea and/or constipation (3).

The evidence and safety related to Plexus Slim Blend and Chromium Polynicotinate are discussed below.

Do Plexus Slim Products Work?

Plexus says that their Slim products are 'clinically demonstrated to promote weight loss.'

Age of empire torrent magnet torrent. To back this up, they reference a study on their website that showed a trend towards higher weight loss in participants who used these products twice per day.

However, this was an internal study that didn't show statistically significant results. It also was never published. In fact, there appears to be no official studies done on Plexus Slim.

Instead, we'll have to look at research focused on its individual ingredients.

Garcinia Cambogia Extract: There is some evidence that garcinia cambogia extract can promote weight loss in the short term, but the amount lost has been insignificant. (4).

Green Coffee Bean Extract: This extract may have a small impact on blood sugar levels, though this evidence isn't very reliable. It may also improve metabolism due to the caffeine it contains (2, 5).

Is Plexus Bad

However, weight loss related to caffeine intake has been found to be very small. One study found that over 12 years it only caused a drop of less than one pound (6).

Alpha Lipoic Acid: Similarly, alpha lipoic acid has been associated with a small but significant reduction in weight. One review found a loss of 1.27 kg (roughly 2.5 lbs) compared to a placebo group in studies that lasted up to one year (7).

Chromium: There is some evidence that chromium may promote weight loss too, though some studies have found it to have no effect (8, 9).

Chromium may also reduce appetite and cravings for carbohydrates, but this isn't always linked to boosting weight loss (10, 11, 12).

While weight loss may not be confirmed, it does appear that chromium can reduce blood sugar levels in those with diabetes (13, 14).

Safety of Plexus Slim Products

When taken in the recommended amount, there are no major side effects related to Plexus Slim or the ingredients it contains (15, 16, 17, 18).

However, some minor side effects, such as stomach pain, have been linked with garcinia cambogia extract (57).

Also, as chromium may lower blood sugar, it's important for those with diabetes to speak with their doctor before trying these products (14, 19).

The caffeine in these products may also cause unpleasant side effects for some people like (20):

• Sleep problems
• Headaches
• Anxiety
• Racing heart

It's also important to know that weight loss supplements can sometimes interfere with certain medications (21).

Plexus states that pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before taking a Plexus Slim product. It's also not recommended for those under 18 years old.

Summary: Plexus Slim Hunger Control and Plexus Slim Microbiome Activating are weight loss shakes that contain chromium, green coffee bean extract, garcinia cambogia extract, alpha lipoic acid and specific types of fiber. There has been no published studies done on Plexus Slim products. There is some evidence that its individual ingredients may boost weight loss, but these have not been rigorously tested. There may also be some minor side effects to consider.

Plexus Lean

This meal replacement shake is promoted as a way of promoting weight loss.

It also claims to:

• Be a nutritious and filling meal replacement
• Help control hunger (due to its high protein and fiber content)
• Provide energy for physical activity
• Support digestive health
• Promote muscle growth (in combination with exercise)

Plexus Lean Ingredients:

Plexus Lean contains 20g of protein per serving, all from plant-based sources, including:

• Pea
• Rice
• Amaranth
• Quinoa
• Sacha inchi
• Buckwheat
• Millet
• Chia seeds

It also contains 7g of fiber per serving, including specific types of fiber that act as prebiotics, which feed the healthy bacteria in the gut.

These prebiotics include:

• Fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) (a type of FODMAP)
• Alpha-galacto-oligosaccharides (ɑ-GOS)
• Xylo-oligosaccharides (XOS)

Plexus Lean contains most vitamins and minerals, except for vitamin K. These are present in varying amounts, ranging from 5-59% of the daily recommended intake per meal replacement serving.

Plexus Lean also contains:

• Leucine
• 5-MTHF (methylated) folate

Does Plexus Lean Work?

No specific studies have tested whether Plexus Lean actually works.

Similar meal replacement supplements have shown to reduce calorie intake and promote weight loss (22, 23).

However, the evidence for these isn't strong for studies that have lasted up to a year or longer (24, 25).

In terms of nutrition, a serving of Plexus Lean is low in calories (230 kcal) and carbohydrates (17g) and high in protein (20g with a range of amino acids) and fiber (7g).

It also contains a moderate amount of sugar (7g), fat (7g), saturated fat (1.5g) and a range of vitamins and minerals.

The high protein and fiber content may increase feelings of fullness (26).

The claims about 'promoting muscle growth (in combination with exercise)' may be justified, as the protein and leucine it contains have been found to play a key role in this process (27, 28).

Its prebiotics can also help populate the gut with healthy bacteria (29).

However, all of these nutrients can easily be found in a healthy balanced diet without the need for a supplement like this.

Safety of Plexus Lean

No specific safety concerns have been raised in relation to Plexus Lean, though pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult their doctor first.

There are no guidelines to the amount of Plexus Lean to consume every day, but having too much may cause problems.

For example, if Plexus Lean was taken in place of 3 meals and 3 snacks everyday it would provide:

• 1,035 kcal and 77g of carbohydrates: not enough to support an active lifestyle.
• 90g of protein: more than the recommended amount for most people.
• 32g of sugar: above the daily recommended limit.
• More than the daily recommended intake of vitamin A, which can be risky, especially for pregnant women.
• A high intake of iron, which can cause constipation, nausea or vomiting (30, 31).

Using meal replacement supplements similar to this has also been linked with an increase in depression and binge eating (32).

Because this supplement contains oligosaccharide prebiotics, it's also high in FODMAPs. This may cause unpleasant symptoms in those with IBS (33).

See this article for more information on the low-FODMAP diet and IBS.

Summary: Plexus Lean is a low-calorie meal replacement drink that is high in protein and fiber. It also contains a range of vitamins and minerals, prebiotics to support gut health, and leucine to promote muscle growth. No studies have examined how effective this product is, and evidence is mixed about whether meal replacements like this support long-term weight loss.

Plexus 96

This protein shake is marketed as a meal and snack replacement.

It's claimed to provide long-lasting energy, reduce hunger and cravings, and help build muscle.

Plexus 96 comes in both chocolate and vanilla flavor. It contains 100 calories, 15g of vegetarian-friendly whey protein per serving, and 20 vitamins and minerals.

Does Plexus 96 Work?

No clinical trials have specifically looked at whether Plexus 96 increases energy or reduces appetite and cravings.

The high protein content may increase the feeling of fullness. Some studies have also found that whey protein may stabilize blood sugar levels, as well as help release hormones that reduce appetite. This may stabilize energy levels and reduce cravings (34, 35).

Whey protein also provides a substantial supply of amino acids, which can promote muscle growth and recovery when consumed within 1-3 hours of training (36).

But no supplements are necessary. It's easy enough to get the benefits of whey protein by consuming ordinary dairy products.

If you have a low intake of any vitamins or minerals, consuming Plexus 96 could correct some nutritional deficiencies (depending on the amount consumed), and could potentially improve energy levels.

However, this can also be achieved from eating a balanced and varied diet, or from taking a standard multivitamin and mineral supplement.

Safety of Plexus 96

Many of the risks related to consuming too much Plexus Lean also apply to Plexus 96, as there is no recommended maximum daily intake on the label.

Consuming Plexus 96 for 3 meals and 3 snacks in one day would result in:

• No fiber, which would be detrimental to your bowels and general health.
• An extremely low intake of calories (600 kcal), carbohydrates (18g) and fat (6g).
• No iron, which can lead to anemia.
• A moderate intake of protein.

It's also best to avoid replacing meals or snacks with this supplement if you are underweight, sick, or suffering (or have suffered) with an eating disorder.

If in doubt, it's always best to ask your doctor for individual advice before starting a new supplement.

Summary: Plexus 96 is a whey protein supplement. There's some evidence that products like this can promote muscle growth, stabilize energy levels and reduce appetite. But this could also be achieved from simply consuming a balanced diet.

Plexus Block

This supplement is said to block the absorption of 48% of sugar and carbohydrate intake, which can promote weight loss and stabilize blood sugar (in combination with diet and exercise).

It claims to do this by reducing the glycemic index of carbohydrate-based foods and neutralizing enzymes (alpha-amylase, alpha-glucosidase) that turn carbohydrates into glucose in our body. Tube increaser download.

Plexus also states that it doesn't block the absorption of health-promoting nutrients.

The recommended intake is 2 capsules with water, twice per day (maximum). It's also advised to take these right before meals containing sugar or carbohydrates.

Each capsule contains:

• Chromium picolinate (200mcg)
• Brown seaweed blend (500mcg), containing ascophyllum nodosum (or kelp), fucus vesiculosus (standardized as 20% polyphenols)
• White kidney bean extract (200mcg) – 10:1 extract (phaseolus vulgaris)

Does Plexus Block Work?

No clinical studies have evaluated this supplement or its claim of blocking 48% of sugar and carbohydrate intake.

So, let's take a look at its individual ingredients.

Chromium: As mentioned above, chromium can reduce blood sugar levels for those with diabetes. This may also promote weight loss and reduce food cravings, but the evidence for this is less clear.

Brown Seaweed: There is some proof that brown seaweed may reduce the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates in mice. Not much research has investigated this effect in humans, but findings among small studies have been mixed (37, 38, 39).

White Kidney Bean Extract: This has been found to promote weight loss and reduce spikes in blood sugar levels, but only at much higher doses than those contained in Plexus Block (40).

However, one study on 60 overweight volunteers examined the effect of a supplement containing a similar amount of white kidney bean extract as Plexus Block. It was found to boost weight loss, but the effect on blood sugar levels wasn't reported (41).

Safety of Plexus Block

Just like their other products, Plexus Block is recommended for adults 18 and over.

Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also consult their doctor before trying this.

It's important to know that supplements containing brown seaweed or kelp are often not recommended as they can contain dangerously high levels of iodine, which can be harmful for the thyroid (42).

Brown seaweed can also contain heavy metals like arsenic, which can damage organs (43).

Meanwhile, there are no reported safety concerns related to kidney bean extract. Mild side effects like stomach pain typically reduce over time (44).

As previously mentioned, those with diabetes may need to speak to their doctor before taking a supplement that contains chromium.

Summary: There's some weak evidence that the ingredients in Plexus Block may stabilize blood sugar levels, reduce the absorption of carbohydrates and boost weight loss. However, brown seaweed extract may contain arsenic and a dangerously high level of iodine.

Plexus Accelerator+

This supplement claims to increase fat burning and boost your metabolism.

It's advised to take 2 capsules of Plexus Accelerator+ per day between meals.

The company says this supplement can work well alongside Plexus Slim, but should not be used in conjunction with Plexus Boost and 'is not intended for long term use.'

Plexus Accelerator+ contains a 950mg blend of:

• Yerba maté leaf extract
• Green tea leaf extract
• Higenamine hydrochloride
• Hawthorn berry extract
• Hordenine hydrochloride
• 5-HTP (hydroxytryptophan from griffonia seed extract)

Plexus Accelerator+ also contains vitamins B3, B6, B9 (folic acid), and B12, along with calcium and chromium picolinate.

Does Plexus Accelerator+ Work?

This product contains a number of ingredients that are said to boost weight loss, but no solid research has yet proven their effectiveness.

Yerba Maté Leaf: This South American herb contains a variety of antioxidants. Studies have found that it may promote fat burning and increase metabolism, but there isn't a lot of evidence of this in humans (45, 46).

Higenamine Hydrochloride: This has been used as a supposed fat burner, but there has been no research on it with humans.

Green Tea Leaf Extract: This has shown to promote a small amount of weight loss, and its caffeine content may slightly improve metabolism in the short term (47, 48, 5, 6).

Hordenine Hydrochloride : This supplement may boost metabolism by increasing heart rate and breathing rate. However, research related to this is very limited.

5-HTP: Similarly, a small amount of research suggests that 5-HTP may increase feelings of fullness when taken in a spray form (49).

Hawthorn Berry Extract: While this is high in antioxidants, there's no evidence that it boosts metabolism or fat burning (50).

The B vitamins in this supplement may also have a small impact on metabolism, but only for those who have a low intake of these nutrients already. This is unlikely to make a difference for those who eat a varied diet.

Safety of Plexus Accelerator+

The label states that this product is not suitable for people under the age if 18, pregnant and breastfeeding mothers, and 'anyone with a chronic medical condition.'

It also recommends speaking to your doctor before using Plexus Accelerator+, and to stop using it if unpleasant side effects are experienced.

The potential risks related to chromium supplements and caffeine discussed under Plexus Slim Products also apply to Plexus Accelerator+.

There are no major safety concerns related to the remaining key ingredients in the amount contained in this supplement.

However, most of these ingredients have very limited research behind them, so there may be unknown risks related to taking them (or combining them) (51).

It's also worth pointing out that higenamine hydrochloride was recently banned in sports by the World Anti-Doping Agency, as it may increase exercise tolerance (52).

The amount of B vitamins are also extremely high. It contains 8,333% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin B12, and 1,500% of the recommended intake for vitamin B6.

This should not be a problem given the upper limit for intake of both these vitamins is higher than the amounts contained in Plexus Accelerator+, but excessive intake of B6 has been linked with nerve damage (53).

Summary: Plexus Accelerator+ claims to increase metabolic rate and fat burning. Some of its ingredients have shown this effect, but many of the studies are small or have been carried out only in animals. Long-term effects and safety of the supplement are still unknown.

Plexus Boost

Plexus Boost is said to reduce hunger due to the inclusion of an extract from an Indian cactus called caralluma fimbriata.

The recommended dose of this supplement is 1-2 capsules per day, preferably in the morning.

Plexus Boost should not be taken alongside Plexus Accelerator+.

This supplement contains a 608mg blend of:

• Caralluma fimbriata extract
• Yerba maté leaf extract
• Green tea leaf extract
• Higenamine from tangerine peel/lotus seed

It also contains the same mix and amount of B vitamins, calcium and chromium as Plexus Accelerator+.

Does Plexus Boost Work?

No direct studies have looked at the effect of Plexus Boost.

Why Is Plexus Banned On Amazon

The evidence related to caralluma fimbriata extract is mixed. Some small studies have found a link to reduced caloric intake and improved weight loss, but another trial found no impact on weight or appetite after using caralluma fimbriata extract (54, 55, 56).

Check under Plexus Accelerator+ above to see the evidence related to Plexus Boost's other ingredients, including yerba maté leaf extract, green tea leaf extract and higenamine.

Safety of Plexus Boost

This supplement is also not recommended for anybody under 18, and it's advised that pregnant or breastfeeding women should speak with their doctor before trying Plexus Boost.

The FDA recognises caralluma fimbriata as a safe ingredient in the amounts likely present in this supplement.

However, some mild side effects have been reported, such as constipation, nausea and stomach pain.

There are no major safety concerns related to the remaining key ingredients in the amount contained in this supplement.

Summary: Plexus Boost is similar to Plexus Accelerator+, except that it contains caralluma fimbriata extract, which may reduce appetite and improve weight loss. But the small amount of research about this ingredient has produced mixed results.

Plexus Product Reviews

Plexus Worldwide have an A+ rating on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, but the company only has one review, which says:

'This business has changed my life. Their products are the first thing in my life that has helped my stomach issues. I don't sell them, but I appreciate the people who do.'

However, a previous review mentions that Plexus has a BBB rating of a C based on 680 reviews. So it seems suspicious that they now have a good rating and only one review.

Plexus Amazon Reviews

There are plenty of negative reviews about Plexus products and their ineffectiveness and bad customer service. Some look like this:

• 'Nothing changed. Besides having to pee way more in the morning and my heart beating so fast.'
• 'I haven't lost any weight.'
• 'Can't even get a refund because they won't answer phones or respond online.'
• 'I have canceled my membership several times and they keep charging me.'

But there are some more recent positive reviews about the effectiveness of Plexus Slim, such as:

• 'I love it! I feel like I have more energy and a more positive outlook when I'm taking it. The Slim HC seriously helps with cravings and hunger… I forget to eat!'
• 'I've lost six pounds in two weeks because it completely banished my sugar cravings!'
• 'I love it. It fills me up, and forces me to look at healthier ways to eat.'

It's interesting to see that there is a dedicated subreddit for 'Life After Plexus.' The general consensus there is that Plexus Slim doesn't work and is a waste of money.

Some comments are also related to the fact that Plexus Worldwide is a pyramid scheme (multi-level marketing company), as they use brand ambassadors to resell their products.

Summary: Plexus Worldwide currently have a high rating on the Better Business Bureau, but only because it seems that they created a new profile, leaving past negative reviews under a previous listing. Overall, the company has mostly mixed reviews. Some people report great results, while others say it's a waste of money.

Plexus Banned On Amazon

Are Plexus Products Worth Your Money?

Plexus products range from about $30 up to nearly $90 for a 30-day supply.

The most recent price list of Plexus products can be found on their website.

Currently, a year's supply of Plexus Slim will cost you over $1,000.

Some of the ingredients in these products have a small amount of evidence to back up their claimed effects.

But none of the actual products have been directly examined in a published study, and none have been approved by the FDA.

There are also many people online who feel that purchasing Plexus products or getting involved with this 'multi-level marketing scheme' has been a total scam.

What Is Plexus Slim

And just like other weight-loss pills, meal replacements and products such as 310 Shakes, Perfect Biotics, Lipozene and Forskolin, Plexus supplements are unnecessary to lose weight.

Instead, you can save yourself the money—and likely your health—by simply following these proven weight loss tips.