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What is Zhen De Shou?

Erin J. Hill
Erin J. Hill

Zhen de shou is a weight loss supplement that is said to speed up metabolism and work to suppress appetite in order for patients to burn more calories and eat less. The exact ingredients vary based on the brand, but most offer some variation of Chinese hawthorn, ginkgo, and safflower. Aside from weight loss, these ingredients have been shown to offer some health benefits.

The overall effectiveness of zhen de shou has been debated, although there have been studies showing that ginkgo is a good weight loss aid. In any event, patients who choose to use the supplement as a diet aid should also develop healthy eating habits and develop an exercise plan to promote healthy weight loss long-term. As with any drug or supplement, it is a good idea to talk with a doctor or pharmacist before taking zhen de shou to ensure that there will be no interactions with other drugs or supplements being taken and to make sure it’s compatible with any pre-existing conditions.

Safflower is often included in zhen de shou.
Safflower is often included in zhen de shou.

Many makers of zhen de shou assert that it can help patients lose weight rather rapidly. Some estimates state significant weight loss can occur in a matter of a few weeks. Most health experts state that losing weight in a such a quick fashion can be unhealthy and even dangerous.

Zhen de shou works because it is a stimulant used in order to raise metabolism. This can lead to symptoms like insomnia if the supplement is taken too late in the day. Dry mouth and jitters may also occur. When mixed with other drugs or supplements, serious side effects may occur.

Dieters should be aware that some versions of zhen de shou have included ephedra and other stimulants in their recipes. For this reason, anyone who is considering using this product should read labels carefully and research each ingredient separately to check for safety and effectiveness. Multiple stimulants in the same product could lead to serious health complications including heart failure and stroke.

None of the ingredients in this supplement have been fully tested for effectiveness or safety for use as a weight loss supplement. Ginkgo has been shown to help improve memory, while some of the other ingredients have been shown to prevent skin cancer and to provide the body with antioxidants. There are other methods for getting these things, however, which are much safer than using zhen de shou. Not all versions of this supplement are safe and some do not disclose ingredients entirely to consumers.

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    • Safflower is often included in zhen de shou.
      By: Tamara Kulikova
      Safflower is often included in zhen de shou.