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Coleus Forskohlii (Forskolin)

 

Although not a stimulant ingredient, it is showing up in many thermogenic weight loss formulas.  Coleus Forshohlii (active ingredient Forskolin) is a "power" herb which increases the amount of cyclic AMP (adenosine monophosphate) in cells by activating an enzyme called adenylate cyclase.  Why is it important to increase cAMP levels? Well, there are several benefits of this to athletes including relaxation of the arteries and smooth muscles, lowering blood pressure, enhanced insulin secretion (which can help drive carbohydrates and protein into muscle cells for energy and recovery), increased thyroid hormone function (which can help enhance metabolic rate), and significantly increase lipolysis (fat burning). Forskolin also seems to benefit other cellular enzymes as well.  Forskolin has been shown to not only enhance lipolysis but it may also inhibit fat storage from occurring. It is actually patented under US patent 5,804,596 by the Sabinsa corporation for stimulating lean body mass (the more lean muscle mass you have, the more calories you will burn at rest, hence more fat loss!). A good dose is 100 mg coleus forskohlii standardized to 20% forskolin.  Taking 25-60 mg of forskolin daily in divided doses may be beneficial.
 

 

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