Animal Cuts Review - Does It Really Work?

Animal Cuts reviews

June 19th 2025

Animal Cuts, a weight loss supplement manufactured by Universal Nutrition, claims to aid weight loss through thermogenesis, metabolic enhancement, to appetite suppression and stress reduction.

Whilst these weight loss mechanisms are scientifically grounded[1-5], we'll test the effectiveness of Animal Cuts in achieving weight loss. But we have a major concern, the use of proprietary blends hides what's what in the product and whether key ingredients are dosed at effective levels. Let's put it to the test.

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Overall Verdict



  • Proprietary Blends Lack Transparency: Animal Cuts uses proprietary blends that obscure the exact dosages of individual ingredients, making it difficult to assess their effectiveness.
  • Underdosing of Ingredients: Given the total amounts listed for each blend, many key ingredients are underdosed compared to clinically proven levels.

  • High Stimulant Content: The inclusion of multiple stimulants like caffeine anhydrous, kola nut, and guarana can cause side effects such as jitteriness, insomnia, and increased heart rate.

  • Temporary Water Shedding Effects: The Water Shedding Complex effectively reduces water retention but offers only short-term results and can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances with prolonged use.

  • Limited Weight Loss Results: Our real-world experience showed limited weight loss benefits, likely due to the combination of underdosed ingredients and the reliance on temporary water loss rather than sustainable fat loss.

  • Our Recommendation: We recommend Rootana as the most comprehensive weight loss supplement. It performed well in our testing, is comprehensively formulated and uses scientific evidence to back up its claims.

Rootana

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Animal Cuts alternative testing

Quick Decision Guide: Animal Cuts vs Our Top-Rated Weight Loss Supplement (Rootana)

Criteria

Animal Cuts

Animal Cuts Review Testing

Rootana

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Overall Rating

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Main Benefits

Moderate effectiveness, with varied results due to proprietary blends and potential underdosing

Easy calorie control, real food ingredients, sustained calorie deficit, burns stored fat

Scientific Backing

Mixed; some ingredients supported by evidence, but proprietary blends limit dosage transparency

High, scientifically proven approach

Formula Complexity

Complex, with multiple proprietary blends targeting various aspects of weight loss

Transparent ingredient list with clear amounts for each ingredient

Brand Reputation Concerns

Potential issues with transparency due to proprietary blends

Very positive reputation, transparent marketing and clear ingredient list

Commitment Time For Results

4-12 weeks

2-12 weeks

User Reviews

Mixed; some users report good results, others cite side effects or lack of effectiveness

Positive reviews with many users reporting noticeable weight loss

Potential Side Effects

Possible side effects from stimulants (e.g., jitteriness, insomnia), diuretics (e.g., dehydration), and allergens

None, well-tolerated

Customer Support & Returns Policy

Standard customer support, 30-day return policy

Excellent, with a clear 60 day money-back guarantee

Product Availability

Available through retailers

Available through the official site only

Additional Benefits

Claims to target multiple health aspects (e.g., cognitive function, stress reduction) but effectiveness is limited

Enhances mood and energy, helps control cravings

Cost

Premium

Mid-Tier

Serving Size

1x 750mg pack

1 Shake

Servings Per Container

42

14-28

Price

What Should You Look For In Weight Loss Supplements?

When choosing a weight loss supplement, several factors should be considered to ensure efficacy and safety:

  1. Transparency: The supplement should provide a clear list of ingredients and their respective dosages. Proprietary blends that do not disclose exact amounts can obscure the effectiveness of the product[6-12].
  2. Clinically Proven Dosages: Ingredients should be included at dosages that have been clinically proven to be effective. This ensures that the supplement can deliver the promised benefits[13].
  3. Taste and Palatability: Since weight loss supplements are often taken daily, they should be palatable and easy to consume. Poor taste or unpleasant side effects can deter consistent use, reducing the effectiveness of the supplement[14].
  4. Safety and Side Effects: The supplement should be free from harmful side effects. It is crucial to research and understand any potential risks associated with the ingredients used[15].
  5. Brand Reputation: Choose supplements from reputable brands that have positive reviews and are known for their quality and safety standards[16].

Weight Loss as Part of a Nutritional Strategy

Effective weight loss is not solely reliant on supplements but should be part of a comprehensive nutritional strategy. This includes:

  • Balanced Diet: A diet rich in whole foods, including vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats, supports overall health and weight loss[17].
  • Regular Exercise: Physical activity helps to burn calories and build muscle, enhancing the weight loss process[18].
  • Hydration: Adequate water intake is crucial for metabolic processes and can aid in appetite control[19].
  • Sleep: Quality sleep supports metabolic health and can help regulate hunger hormones[20].

Integrating these elements with the use of a well-chosen supplement can enhance weight loss outcomes and support long-term health goals.

What Is Animal Cuts? 

Animal Cuts is a weight loss supplement developed by Universal Nutrition. This product claims to target multiple aspects of fat loss through a combination of various complexes. Each pack contains a blend of ingredients intended to support thermogenesis, metabolism, thyroid function, water shedding, nootropic enhancement, cortisol inhibition, appetite suppression, and bioavailability. The supplement is marketed towards individuals looking for a well-rounded approach to weight loss, particularly those who engage in regular physical activity and require additional support in their weight management efforts[21].

Animal Cuts includes several proprietary blends such as the Stimulant Complex, Metabolic Complex, Thyroid Complex, and more. Each of these blends is formulated with specific ingredients that are purported to contribute to weight loss. For example, the Stimulant Complex contains caffeine anhydrous, kola nut, guarana, and yerba mate, all known for their metabolism-boosting properties. The Metabolic Complex includes various tea extracts rich in polyphenols and EGCG, compounds that have been associated with increased fat oxidation and metabolic rate[22][23].

Despite these claims, it is crucial to critically evaluate the actual effectiveness of Animal Cuts. The use of proprietary blends means the exact dosages of individual ingredients are not disclosed, making it difficult to determine if the product contains sufficient amounts of each component to be effective. Some ingredients used in the product have been shown to aid in weight loss, others require more research to confirm their efficacy and safety[24][25].

Animal Cuts Ingredients and How They Work

Animal Cuts by Universal Nutrition is marketed as a comprehensive weight loss supplement that combines various complexes to support multiple aspects of fat loss. Each pack contains a blend of ingredients the brand claims promote thermogenesis, enhance metabolism, support thyroid function, shed excess water, improve cognitive function, reduce cortisol levels, suppress appetite, and increase bioavailability of nutrients. 

Stimulant Complex (750 mg)

The Stimulant Complex in Animal Cuts includes caffeine anhydrous, kola nut, guarana, yerba mate, raspberry ketones, coleus forskohlii extract, and evodiamine. Caffeine is a well-known stimulant that increases metabolic rate and promotes fat oxidation[26]. Kola nut, guarana, and yerba mate are natural sources of caffeine and other stimulants that can enhance energy expenditure and suppress appetite[27]. Raspberry ketones are believed to influence fat metabolism, although evidence supporting their effectiveness in humans is limited[28]. Coleus forskohlii extract has shown potential in promoting fat loss by increasing cellular levels of cyclic AMP, which can stimulate fat breakdown[29]. Evodiamine is thought to enhance thermogenesis, but more research is needed to confirm its efficacy[30].

Metabolic Complex (750 mg)

The Metabolic Complex contains green tea leaf extract, oolong tea leaf extract, black tea leaf extract, coffee bean extract, and white tea leaf extract. These tea extracts are rich in polyphenols, particularly EGCG, which has been shown to boost metabolism and enhance fat oxidation[31]. The combination of various tea extracts provides a synergistic effect, potentially increasing the overall thermogenic effect[32].

Thyroid Complex (350 mg)

The Thyroid Complex includes L-tyrosine, olive leaf extract, and salvia officinalis (sage leaf). L-tyrosine is an amino acid that supports thyroid function by serving as a precursor for the synthesis of thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism[33]. Olive leaf extract and sage leaf have antioxidant properties that can support overall health, but their direct impact on thyroid function and weight loss is less clear[34].

Water Shedding Complex (800 mg)

The Water Shedding Complex contains dandelion root, uva ursi leaf, hydrangea root, buchu leaf, juniper berry fruit, and celery seed. These ingredients are known for their diuretic properties, which help reduce water retention and bloating, giving a leaner appearance[35]. While these ingredients can effectively reduce water weight, they do not contribute to fat loss.

Nootropic Complex (500 mg)

The Nootropic Complex includes DMAE, cocoa powder, bacopa monniera, and huperzine A. These ingredients are intended to enhance cognitive function and focus. DMAE and huperzine A have shown potential in improving memory and mental clarity[36]. Bacopa monniera is an adaptogen that can help reduce stress and improve cognitive performance[37]. Cocoa powder contains flavonoids that support brain health and mood[38].

Cortisol Inhibiting Complex (300 mg)

The Cortisol Inhibiting Complex includes ashwagandha root extract, eleutherococcus senticosus (Siberian ginseng), phosphatidylserine, and magnolia bark extract. These adaptogenic herbs and compounds can help reduce cortisol levels, a stress hormone that can contribute to fat accumulation, particularly in the abdominal area[39]. Lowering cortisol levels can support weight loss by reducing stress-induced eating and fat storage[40].

CCK Boosting Complex (300 mg)

The CCK Boosting Complex contains cha-de-bugre, apple pectin, and jojoba leaf. Cholecystokinin (CCK) is a hormone that helps regulate appetite. These ingredients are believed to enhance the release of CCK, promoting a feeling of fullness and reducing calorie intake[41]. However, the effectiveness of these ingredients in significantly boosting CCK levels and suppressing appetite requires more evidence[42].

Bioavailability Complex (500 mg)

The Bioavailability Complex includes ginger root, cayenne fruit, grapefruit peel, quercetin, naringin, and piper nigrum extract (black pepper). These ingredients are intended to enhance the absorption and effectiveness of the other components in Animal Cuts. Piperine, found in black pepper, has been shown to increase the bioavailability of various nutrients and compounds[43]. Ginger and cayenne also support digestion and metabolism, further enhancing the product's overall effectiveness[44].

Concerns about Proprietary Blends and Dosages

While Animal Cuts includes a variety of promising ingredients, the use of proprietary blends means the exact dosages of individual ingredients are not disclosed. This lack of transparency makes it difficult to determine if the ingredients are included at clinically effective dosages. For example, some studies suggest that certain ingredients, like green tea extract, need to be consumed in specific amounts to be effective for weight loss[45]. Without knowing the precise quantities, consumers cannot be sure they are getting the optimal benefits.

Animal Cuts combines a broad range of ingredients to target various aspects of weight loss, from metabolism and thermogenesis to appetite suppression and cognitive enhancement. However, the use of proprietary blends and the potential for underdosed ingredients are significant drawbacks.

Animal Cuts - Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Stimulant Boost: Includes several natural stimulants like caffeine, kola nut, and guarana to boost energy and metabolism.
  • Wide Availability: Can be easily purchased from major retailers and online platforms.

Cons

  • Proprietary Blends: Lack of transparency about the exact dosages of individual ingredients, making it difficult to assess effectiveness.
  • Potential Underdosing: Many ingredients present in amounts lower than those proven to be effective in clinical studies.
  • High Stimulant Content: Can cause side effects such as jitteriness, insomnia, and increased heart rate, especially in sensitive individuals.
  • Temporary Effects from Diuretics: Water shedding ingredients provide short-term weight loss and can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
  • Mixed User Feedback: Results can vary widely among users, with some reporting good results and others experiencing side effects or lack of effectiveness.
  • Limited Appetite Suppression: The effectiveness of appetite suppressants like apple pectin may be limited due to potential underdosing.

Animal Cuts Marketing Claims

Animal Cuts, a product of Universal Nutrition, makes bold marketing claims aimed at attracting those looking for effective weight loss solutions. These claims highlight the product's ability to burn excess fat, boost metabolism, enhance focus, reduce stress, and shed water weight. But do these claims stack up?

THERMOGENIC AND METABOLIC COMPLEXES

Animal Cuts claims that its thermogenic and metabolic complexes can burn excess fat and boost metabolism naturally. These complexes include ingredients such as caffeine anhydrous, kola nut, guarana, yerba mate, and various tea extracts (green, oolong, black, and white)[46]. Caffeine and tea extracts are well-documented for their thermogenic properties, which can increase energy expenditure and fat oxidation[47][48]. However, the effectiveness of these ingredients heavily depends on their dosages, which are not disclosed due to the proprietary blend. While these ingredients can contribute to increased metabolism and fat burning, the lack of transparency makes it difficult to ascertain if they are present in effective amounts.

NOOTROPIC AND CORTISOL-INHIBITING COMPLEXES

The product also claims to enhance focus and reduce stress with its nootropic and cortisol-inhibiting complexes. These complexes include ingredients such as DMAE, bacopa monniera, huperzine A, ashwagandha root extract, and phosphatidylserine[49]. Nootropics like DMAE and huperzine A have been shown to support cognitive function and mental clarity[50]. Ashwagandha and phosphatidylserine are adaptogens known for their stress-reducing properties, potentially helping to lower cortisol levels, which can contribute to weight gain when elevated[51][52]. These ingredients are promising for improving mental focus and reducing stress, but again, their effectiveness is dose-dependent, and the proprietary blend obscures the exact amounts used.

DIURETIC AND THYROID SUPPORT COMPLEXES

Animal Cuts claims that its diuretic and thyroid support complexes can help cut fat and shed excess water weight without losing muscle size. The diuretic complex includes dandelion root, uva ursi leaf, hydrangea root, and other diuretic herbs[53]. These ingredients are effective for reducing water retention and bloating, which can give the appearance of a leaner physique[54]. The thyroid support complex, which includes L-tyrosine, olive leaf extract, and salvia officinalis, aims to support healthy thyroid function and metabolism[55]. While these ingredients can support thyroid health and reduce water weight, they do not directly contribute to fat loss.

APPETITE SUPPRESSANT AND BIOAVAILABILITY COMPLEXES

The appetite suppressant and bioavailability complexes claim to suppress appetite and enhance the absorption of other ingredients. These complexes contain ingredients like cha-de-bugre, apple pectin, jojoba leaf, ginger root, cayenne fruit, and black pepper extract (piperine)[56]. Appetite suppressants like apple pectin can increase feelings of fullness, potentially reducing calorie intake[57]. Piperine, found in black pepper extract, is known to enhance the bioavailability of various nutrients, improving their absorption and effectiveness[58]. These ingredients can be beneficial, but their impact on significant weight loss is likely limited without lifestyle and dietary changes.

Animal Cuts makes several marketing claims that are partially supported by the scientific literature on its ingredients. The thermogenic and metabolic complexes can potentially increase fat burning and metabolism, while the nootropic and cortisol-inhibiting complexes can enhance focus and reduce stress. The diuretic complex effectively reduces water weight, and the appetite suppressant and bioavailability complexes can aid in appetite control and nutrient absorption. However, the use of proprietary blends and lack of transparency about the dosages of individual ingredients make it difficult to fully validate these claims.

Our Experience With Animal Cuts

Our firsthand experience with Animal Cuts, produced by Universal Nutrition, revealed several limitations in achieving the promised weight loss results. Despite the extensive marketing claims, our real-world results were limited and did not fully align with the product's promises. Here is a detailed account of our experiences and how they relate to the issues with the ingredients and dosages.

Limited Thermogenic and Metabolic Effects

We expected significant thermogenic and metabolic boosts from Animal Cuts, given its blend of stimulants such as caffeine anhydrous, kola nut, guarana, and yerba mate. While there was an initial increase in energy levels, it was not sustained throughout the day. The proprietary blend's total of 750 mg likely means that each stimulant is present in suboptimal dosages, failing to reach the levels proven effective in clinical studies[59][60]. As a result, the thermogenic effect was mild, leading to minimal fat oxidation and weight loss.

Inconsistent Focus and Stress Reduction

The Nootropic Complex, which includes DMAE, cocoa powder, bacopa monniera, and huperzine A, promised enhanced focus and cognitive function. Our users reported mixed results: some noticed slight improvements in mental clarity, while others experienced no noticeable change. This inconsistency is likely due to the proprietary blend, which does not guarantee adequate dosages of these cognitive enhancers[61][62]. Additionally, while the Cortisol Inhibiting Complex with ashwagandha and phosphatidylserine aimed to reduce stress, the actual impact varied among users, with some feeling no significant reduction in stress levels[63][64].

Temporary Water Shedding

The Water Shedding Complex in Animal Cuts was effective in reducing water retention temporarily. Ingredients like dandelion root and uva ursi leaf did help to reduce bloating and promote a leaner appearance initially. However, these effects were short-lived and did not contribute to long-term weight loss[65][66]. Moreover, the frequent use of diuretics led to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances for some users, causing discomfort and necessitating caution[67].

Minimal Thyroid Support

Animal Cuts includes a Thyroid Complex with L-tyrosine and olive leaf extract intended to support thyroid function and metabolism. However, our users did not experience noticeable improvements in metabolic rate or energy levels. The total blend amount of 350 mg likely falls short of the effective doses required for these ingredients to have a significant impact[68][69].

Modest Appetite Suppression and Bioavailability

The CCK Boosting Complex, featuring apple pectin and jojoba leaf, was supposed to help suppress appetite. While some users did feel a slight reduction in hunger, the effect was not strong enough to significantly aid in calorie restriction. The Bioavailability Complex aimed to enhance nutrient absorption, but any increase in effectiveness was subtle and hard to quantify[70][71].

Comparison to Marketing Claims

Animal Cuts makes bold claims about providing sustained energy, enhanced focus, reduced water retention, improved mood, and overall fat loss. However, our real-world experience fell short of these promises. The lack of transparency in ingredient dosages due to proprietary blends likely undermines these claims. The limited thermogenic and metabolic effects, inconsistent cognitive benefits, and temporary diuretic properties fall short of the marketed promises[72][73].

Our experience with Animal Cuts revealed several limitations in achieving the marketed weight loss benefits. The proprietary blends and likely underdosed ingredients resulted in less impressive outcomes than anticipated. Users considering Animal Cuts should be aware of these limitations and may need to integrate the supplement into a broader weight loss strategy that includes diet and exercise for better results.

Animal Cuts Ingredients

Animal Cuts Ingredients (click to reveal)

  • Stimulant Complex: 750mg (Caffeine Anhydrous, Kola Nut (seed), Guarana (seed), Yerba Mate (leaf), Raspberry Ketones, Coleus Forskohlii Extract (root), Evodiamine)

  • Metabolic Complex: 750mg (Green Tea Leaf Extract (polyphenols/EGCG), Oolong Tea Leaf Extract (polyphenols), Black Tea Leaf Extract (polyphenols), Coffee Bean Extract (polyphenols), White Tea Leaf Extract (polyphenols))

  • Thyroid Complex: 350mg (L-Tyrosine, Olive Leaf Extract, Salvia Officinalis (leaf))

  • Water Shedding Complex: 800mg (Dandelion Root (taraxol, taraxerol), Uva Ursi Leaf (arbutin, methyl-arbutin), Hydrangea Root, Buchu Leaf, Juniper Berry Fruit, Celery Seed)

  • Nootropic Complex: 500mg (DMAE (dimethylaminoethanol), Cocoa Powder, Bacopa Monniera (bacosides A & B) (leaf), Huperzine A)

  • Cortisol Inhibiting Complex: 300mg (Ashwagandha Root Extract (withanolides), Eleutherococcus Senticosus (root), Phosphatidylserine, Magnolia Bark Extract)

  • CCK Boosting Complex: 300mg (Cha-de-bugre (aerial parts), Apple Pectin (fruit), Jojoba Leaf)

  • Bioavailability Complex: 500mg (Ginger Root (gingerols, shogaols), Cayenne (fruit), Grapefruit (6,7-dihydroxybergamottin) (peel), Quercetin, Naringin (citrus), Piper Nigrum Extract (fruit))

  • Other Ingredients: Gelatin, Dicalcium phosphate, DMAE bitartrate, Microcrystalline cellulose, Magnesium stearate, Stearic acid, Titanium dioxide, FD&C Blue #1, FD&C Red #40, FD&C Yellow #6, FD&C Yellow #5

Summary of Scientific Evidence for the Ingredients Used in Animal Cuts

Animal Cuts by Universal Nutrition is a weight loss supplement that combines multiple complexes to target various aspects of fat loss. To evaluate the effectiveness of Animal Cuts, we must examine the scientific evidence supporting its ingredients and their dosages.

Stimulant Complex (750 mg)

The Stimulant Complex includes caffeine anhydrous, kola nut, guarana, yerba mate, raspberry ketones, coleus forskohlii extract, and evodiamine. Caffeine is widely studied for its thermogenic and metabolic-boosting effects. Effective dosages typically range from 100 to 400 mg per day[75]. Given the proprietary blend totals 750 mg and includes multiple ingredients, it is unlikely that caffeine alone is present at an effective dosage. Kola nut and guarana are additional sources of caffeine, but their exact amounts are also undisclosed, making it difficult to ascertain their effectiveness. Yerba mate typically requires at least 1,000 mg per day to show significant effects[76], while raspberry ketones are usually dosed at 100-300 mg per day in studies[77]. Coleus forskohlii has shown potential at doses of 250 mg per day of a 10% forskolin extract[78], and evodiamine is often studied at 30-50 mg per day[79]. Given the total amount of the blend, it is improbable that each ingredient is present at clinically effective levels.

Metabolic Complex (750 mg)

This complex contains green tea leaf extract, oolong tea leaf extract, black tea leaf extract, coffee bean extract, and white tea leaf extract. Green tea extract, particularly EGCG, is effective at doses of 300-500 mg per day[80]. Oolong, black, and white tea extracts, although beneficial, generally require similar or higher dosages to be effective. The combined total of 750 mg for all these ingredients likely means that individual components are underdosed compared to clinical studies[81].

Thyroid Complex (350 mg)

The Thyroid Complex includes L-tyrosine, olive leaf extract, and salvia officinalis (sage leaf). L-tyrosine is effective at doses of 500-2,000 mg per day for supporting thyroid function and stress reduction[82]. Olive leaf extract and sage leaf are typically used in amounts of 500-1,000 mg per day to show significant health benefits[83]. Therefore, it is unlikely that the ingredients in this complex are at effective dosages given the total of 350 mg.

Water Shedding Complex (800 mg)

Ingredients like dandelion root, uva ursi leaf, hydrangea root, buchu leaf, juniper berry fruit, and celery seed are included for their diuretic properties. Dandelion root alone is usually dosed at 1,500-2,000 mg per day for its diuretic effects[84]. Given the 800 mg total for the entire blend, it is improbable that all ingredients are present at effective dosages.

Nootropic Complex (500 mg)

DMAE, cocoa powder, bacopa monniera, and huperzine A are included to enhance cognitive function. DMAE is typically dosed at 300-2,000 mg per day[85], and bacopa monniera is effective at 300-450 mg per day[86]. Huperzine A is usually effective at doses of 50-200 mcg per day[87], which is a much smaller quantity compared to the other nootropics. The 500 mg total for this blend suggests that some ingredients are likely underdosed.

Cortisol Inhibiting Complex (300 mg)

Ashwagandha root extract, eleutherococcus senticosus (Siberian ginseng), phosphatidylserine, and magnolia bark extract are included for their stress-reducing properties. Ashwagandha is effective at doses of 300-600 mg per day[88], and phosphatidylserine at 100-300 mg per day[89]. Given the total of 300 mg for the blend, it is likely that these ingredients are not present at optimal dosages.

CCK Boosting Complex (300 mg)

Ingredients like cha-de-bugre, apple pectin, and jojoba leaf are believed to enhance the release of cholecystokinin (CCK), a hormone that promotes satiety. Apple pectin is effective at doses of 1,000 mg or more per day[90]. The 300 mg total for the entire blend suggests that these ingredients are underdosed relative to clinically effective levels.

Bioavailability Complex (500 mg)

This complex includes ginger root, cayenne fruit, grapefruit peel, quercetin, naringin, and piper nigrum extract (black pepper). Piperine, found in black pepper extract, enhances the bioavailability of various nutrients and is effective at doses as low as 5-20 mg per day[91]. Ginger and cayenne typically require 500-1,000 mg per day to show significant effects[92]. The 500 mg total for this blend means that individual ingredients are likely not at effective.

animal cuts ingredients label

Animal Cuts Side Effects

Animal Cuts, a weight loss supplement from Universal Nutrition, combines multiple complexes targeting various aspects of fat loss, metabolism, and cognitive function. While the ingredients used in Animal Cuts have potential benefits, they also come with possible side effects. Here, we summarize the side effects based on the ingredients and their dosages, where available.

1. Jitteriness and Insomnia

  • Potential Causes: The Stimulant Complex in Animal Cuts includes caffeine anhydrous, kola nut, guarana, and yerba mate. These ingredients are known for their stimulant properties, which can increase alertness but also cause jitteriness, insomnia, and increased heart rate, especially at higher doses. Caffeine anhydrous is particularly potent, and the additional caffeine from kola nut and guarana can amplify these effects[93-99].

2. Increased Heart Rate and Blood Pressure

  • Potential Causes: The stimulant properties of caffeine, kola nut, guarana, and yerba mate can lead to an increased heart rate and elevated blood pressure. Evodiamine, another stimulant in the blend, may contribute to these cardiovascular side effects[100][103].

3. Gastrointestinal Issues

  • Potential Causes: Ingredients such as green tea leaf extract and dandelion root can cause gastrointestinal discomfort. Green tea extract, particularly when consumed in high doses, is known to cause stomach upset, nausea, and diarrhea. Dandelion root, a diuretic, can also lead to gastrointestinal issues[104][109].

4. Headaches and Dizziness

  • Potential Causes: High doses of stimulants like caffeine can lead to headaches and dizziness. Additionally, L-tyrosine in the Thyroid Complex can cause these symptoms when taken in large amounts. The combined effect of multiple stimulants and other active ingredients can contribute to these side effects[98][106].

5. Allergic Reactions

  • Potential Causes: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to ingredients like sage leaf and dandelion root. Symptoms can include rash, itching, and more severe allergic responses. Sage leaf and dandelion root are known allergens for certain individuals[108][109].

6. Nausea and Vomiting

  • Potential Causes: Uva ursi leaf, found in the Water Shedding Complex, can cause nausea and vomiting. This diuretic can be harsh on the stomach, leading to these side effects. Additionally, olive leaf extract, while generally safe, can also cause nausea in some individuals[110][107].

7. Electrolyte Imbalance and Dehydration

  • Potential Causes: Prolonged use of diuretics such as those found in the Water Shedding Complex (dandelion root, uva ursi leaf, hydrangea root, buchu leaf, juniper berry fruit, and celery seed) can lead to electrolyte imbalances and dehydration. These ingredients increase urine output, which can result in the loss of essential electrolytes and fluids[111].

8. Fatigue and Mood Changes

  • Potential Causes: Phosphatidylserine and ashwagandha in the Cortisol Inhibiting Complex can lower cortisol levels, which might lead to fatigue if cortisol levels become too low. Additionally, the fluctuations in energy levels from the stimulants can cause mood swings and feelings of fatigue once the effects wear off[112][113].

Overall Results

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Overall Verdict



  • Proprietary Blends Lack Transparency: Animal Cuts uses proprietary blends that obscure the exact dosages of individual ingredients, making it difficult to assess their effectiveness.
  • Underdosing of Ingredients: Given the total amounts listed for each blend, many key ingredients are underdosed compared to clinically proven levels.

  • High Stimulant Content: The inclusion of multiple stimulants like caffeine anhydrous, kola nut, and guarana can cause side effects such as jitteriness, insomnia, and increased heart rate.

  • Temporary Water Shedding Effects: The Water Shedding Complex effectively reduces water retention but offers only short-term results and can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances with prolonged use.

  • Limited Weight Loss Results: Our real-world experience showed limited weight loss benefits, likely due to the combination of underdosed ingredients and the reliance on temporary water loss rather than sustainable fat loss.

  • Our Recommendation: We recommend Rootana as the most comprehensive weight loss supplement. It performed well in our testing, is comprehensively formulated and uses scientific evidence to back up its claims.

Rootana

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Animal Cuts alternative testing

Overall Verdict and Recommendation

Animal Cuts by Universal Nutrition is marketed as a comprehensive weight loss supplement targeting various facets of fat loss. Despite its claims, there are many limitations to consider.

Limitations of Animal Cuts

  1. Proprietary Blends and Dosage Transparency
    • One of the major limitations of Animal Cuts is the use of proprietary blends, which obscure the exact dosages of individual ingredients. This lack of transparency makes it difficult to determine whether the ingredients are present in clinically effective amounts[114]. Many studies on the effectiveness of ingredients such as green tea extract, caffeine, and L-tyrosine specify particular dosages that are necessary to achieve the desired effects[115].
  2. Potential Under-Dosing of Key Ingredients
    • Given the total amounts listed for each proprietary blend, it is likely that several ingredients are underdosed relative to clinically effective levels. For example, effective dosages for green tea extract typically range from 300-500 mg per day[116], while caffeine's effective dose for thermogenesis and fat oxidation starts at around 100 mg per serving[117]. The combined total of 750 mg for multiple ingredients in the Stimulant Complex suggests that each component might not be present in sufficient quantities to be effective[118].
  3. Side Effects Associated with Stimulants
    • The high stimulant content, including multiple sources of caffeine, can lead to side effects such as jitteriness, insomnia, increased heart rate, and elevated blood pressure. These side effects can be particularly pronounced in individuals sensitive to stimulants[119]. The inclusion of other stimulants like kola nut and guarana further increases the risk of adverse reactions[120].
  4. Temporary Effects from Diuretics
    • The Water Shedding Complex includes several diuretic ingredients that can help reduce water weight and bloating. However, the effects of these ingredients are temporary and do not contribute to long-term fat loss. Prolonged use of diuretics can also lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances[121].
  5. Lack of Strong Appetite Suppressants
    • While Animal Cuts contains ingredients intended to suppress appetite, such as apple pectin and cha-de-bugre, these components are likely underdosed. Effective appetite suppression typically requires higher dosages than what is likely present in the proprietary blend totals[122].

Our Experience with PhenQ

In contrast, our experience with Rootana has demonstrated more consistent and perceivable weight loss benefits.

Rootana's transparent ingredient list and clinically proven approach is the reason it's so effective. Users have reported steady, sustainable weight loss, improved mood, and increased energy levels, all of which align with the benefits expected from its well-researched ingredients.

While Animal Cuts offers some people very modest benefits, its reliance on proprietary blends and under-dosing of key ingredients limit its effectiveness. The side effects associated with its high stimulant content further detract from its appeal. Rootana, on the other hand, provides a more transparent and clinically supported approach, delivering consistent and noticeable weight loss benefits. Based on our experience and the available evidence, we recommend Rootana as a more reliable and effective weight loss supplement.

References

  1.  Paoli, A., Rubini, A., Volek, J. S., & Grimaldi, K. A. (2013). Beyond weight loss: a review of the therapeutic uses of very-low-carbohydrate (ketogenic) diets. European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 67(8), 789-796.
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