Currently...one of the most popular natural substances is raspberry ketones. Raspberries have been praised for years for their high levels of antioxidants, which aid in removing potentially damaging agents within the body. Though only gaining recent renown, raspberry ketones are an aroma compound and have been used for some time to add scent to cosmetics, perfumes, and certain foods. The extraction process for raspberry ketones and complex and can only be performed industrially. Though these ketones are found naturally within the berry, they are only present at very small levels- about one milligram for every kilogram of berries. Though pure raspberry ketones are derived directly from the fruit, raspberry ketones have also been synthetically produced.

One of the main reasons for raspberry ketones recent rise in popularity is attributed to a physician and host of a popular national daytime talk show, who praised raspberry ketone supplements as a "miracle in a bottle," specifically for those trying to lose weight. This is not pure hype, as scientific studies have offered proof that raspberry ketone supplements may reduce weight.

Two studies, one conducted in 2005 and the other in 2010, studied the effects of raspberry ketone when given to subjects on a high fat diet. The studies found that raspberry ketone did increase the levels of adiponectin in the subjects. Adiponectin is a natural hormone found in fatty tissue which increases the body's insulin sensitivity and improves fat metabolism, both of which result in the reduction of fat. Adiponectin is found at higher levels in thin people than those who are overweight or obese. An increase in adiponectin has been linked to weight loss. In addition, the study also found that the subjects were also prevented from developing other risks associated with a high fat diet, such as increased triglyceride levels and fat around the liver. The raspberry ketone supplements also decreased fat storage in the subjects studied.

Raspberry ketones have been used in certain brands of diet pills for years; however these pills contain a number of other substances, some of which may be harmful. Raspberry ketone supplements are the best source of obtaining the benefits desired. The proper dosage will likely vary on the individual. In the studies mentioned above, the supplements given were at fairly high doses. Most recommendations are for one 100 mg supplement taken twice daily. There have been no reported adverse side effects observed with raspberry ketone supplements.

When it comes to results, some people have reported seeing weight loss in less than a week. Of course these results will only be expedited if combined with a more sensible diet and an increase in exercise. For so many people, raspberry ketone supplements may be able to offer the boost to weight loss that other options fail to provide.

Perhaps the only downside in the recent research regarding raspberry ketones is that it's now difficult to get a similar supplement (garcinia cambogia) to stack with it. The supplements have become difficult to find because of the spectacular demand.