TWINLAB
Ripped Fuel 200 caps

Twinlab Ripped Fuel Ephedra-Free has been around for over 10 years. In its original form, it contained an effective blend of ephedra and other herbs. Now sold only in ephedra-free versions, Ripped Fuel contains a different blend of ingredients but most should still be familiar to anyone whose looked at a few thermogenic products. Ripped Fuel is designed to be taken throughout the day, 2 capsules before each meal. This kind of approach to dosing has advantages and drawbacks; on one hand, users will experience the effect of the product right away. On the other hand, because it contains caffeine, users will also quickly develop a tolerance to taking caffeine 3 times a day, every day. This pattern of use, when not combined with diet and exercise, can lead to diminishing effects from the product or even dependency on the product to experience 'normal' energy levels.

The most significant part of Ripped Fuel's formula is the combination of Bitter Orange extract (citrus aurantium) extract, caffeine, and St. John's Wort. This combination was used in a study published in Therapeutic Research, which suggested this combination may enhance fat-burning when combined with diet and exercise. St John's wort, usually recommended for depression and mood support, may help users maintain a positive mood through their diet and training. Low carb diets in particular often lead to irritability and/or poor mood. The other ingredients like yohimbe, coleus, and phenylalanine are potentially useful ingredients in a product like this, but seem to be present only in small, likely ineffective amounts, as part of the 310 mg 'Metabolic Blend" in each 2 capsule dose.