Can Viviscal Cause Weight Gain? A Science-Based Analysis

Can Viviscal Cause Weight Gain?

Viviscal is a popular hair growth supplement designed to nourish thinning hair and promote existing hair growth. The active ingredients in Viviscal include marine proteins, vitamin C, biotin, zinc, iron and a proprietary blend called AminoMar C. With these nutrients and antioxidants, Viviscal aims to generate new hair growth.

But some Viviscal users have raised concerns about potential weight gain as a side effect of the supplement. Here is an in-depth look at the evidence on whether Viviscal causes weight gain.

How Viviscal Works

Viviscal supplements contain two main components that enhance hair growth:

• AminoMar C - This is Viviscal’s trademarked marine complex derived from fish proteins. It provides the building blocks of hair including amino acids, vitamins and minerals.
• Biotin - Biotin is a B vitamin that aids keratin production. Keratin is a key structural protein that makes up hair fibers.

Together, these ingredients nourish hair follicles, stimulate growth factors, and promote thicker, faster hair regeneration. Viviscal also contains other hair-healthy compounds like zinc, iron, vitamin C and horsetail extract.

What the Research Says on Weight Gain

Clinical trials on Viviscal did not show significant weight gain as a side effect. A 6-month study in women with thinning hair found Viviscal users had no difference in body weight compared to placebo after 180 days of use.

Another study on males with thinning hair also showed no significant increase in weight after taking Viviscal for 6 months, versus placebo. The evidence does not demonstrate Viviscal causes weight gain.

Ingredient Analysis for Weight Gain

Analyzing the specific ingredients in Viviscal also shows no direct link to weight gain:

• AminoMar C - Derived from fish, this marine complex is high in protein. Protein contributes to feelings of fullness and satiety, which can aid weight loss.
• Biotin - This B vitamin is water soluble and does not accumulate in the body. There is no evidence it causes weight gain.
• Zinc - Zinc is an appetite suppressant, so if anything zinc may help prevent weight gain.
• Iron - Iron only causes weight gain in those deficient in iron. Viviscal contains 100% of daily iron needs.

No compounds in Viviscal are known to increase fat storage or metabolic changes leading to weight gain.

Factors That May Influence Weight Change

While Viviscal itself does not cause weight gain, there are some factors associated with using it that could influence slight fluctuations on the scale:

• Increase in appetite - Some users report increased hunger. Consuming extra calories could lead to some weight gain.
• Bloating or constipation - Digestive side effects may temporarily increase water weight.
• Insulin sensitivity - One study found marine protein may improve insulin sensitivity, which could reflect as slight weight gain but is beneficial long-term.

However, these minor influences are unlikely to lead to significant weight gain in most people taking Viviscal as directed.

Tips to Prevent Weight Gain on Viviscal

While Viviscal itself does not trigger weight gain, here are some tips to avoid putting on extra pounds while taking the supplements:

1. Watch Portions

Be mindful that Viviscal can boost appetite in some people. Avoid overeating by paying attention to portion sizes and hunger cues.

2. Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water to avoid fluid retention and bloating that could temporarily increase weight.

3. Exercise Regularly

Engage in regular cardio and strength training to burn extra calories and balance any minor metabolic shifts.

4. Eat Nutrient Dense Foods

Choose lean proteins, fiber-rich complex carbs and healthy fats that provide lasting energy without excess calories.

5. Limit Sugar and Refined Carbs

Cut out empty calorie foods and beverages that can spike blood sugar and hunger.

6. Manage Stress

Chronic stress can increase cortisol levels and promote fat storage, so practice stress-reducing techniques.

7. Get Good Sleep

Lack of sleep is linked to metabolic disorders and weight gain. Aim for 7-8 hours per night.

8. Weigh Regularly

Track your weight weekly to catch any creeping gains before they escalate.

Does Viviscal Cause Weight Gain in Everyone?

Viviscal is unlikely to directly cause weight gain in most people who take it as recommended. However, there are a few categories of people who may be more prone to putting on pounds while taking Viviscal supplements:

• Individuals with food sensitivities - Viviscal contains shellfish, so those with shellfish allergies or sensitivities may experience inflammation and fluid retention leading to weight gain.
• Those with digestive issues - People prone to bloating, constipation or diarrhea may experience artificial weight gain from Viviscal's effects on the GI system.
• Very sedentary individuals - If Viviscal increases appetite substantially, those with very low activity levels may gain weight by consuming excess calories.
• People using other supplements or medications - Interactions with other substances could potentially amplify metabolic or appetite-altering side effects.

However, most healthy adults can take Viviscal as directed without noticeable impact on weight. Managing diet and exercise can help counterbalance minor influences.

Safe Dosage for Weight Management

Viviscal manufactures two main formulations of the supplement:

• Viviscal Maximum Strength - This contains 450 mg of AminoMar C per serving, along with biotin, zinc, iron and vitamin C. The maximum daily dose is 2 tablets.
• Viviscal Extra Strength - This higher potency version has 600 mg of AminoMar C per serving. The maximum dosage is 2 tablets per day.

Studies showing no weight gain were based on dosages of 450-650 mg AminoMar C daily, taken as 1-2 tablets. So remaining within 2 tablets of Viviscal Maximum or Extra Strength per day is unlikely to affect weight in most people.

The minimum effective dose based on research is 1 tablet (450 mg) per day. Sticking to this low end could further reduce any possibility of weight gain while still providing hair growth benefits.

Timing Your Dosage

In addition to the amount of Viviscal taken, the timing of doses can also influence side effects like appetite changes that impact weight.

Here are some tips on timing to minimize weight fluctuations:

• Take tablets with food - This can mitigate GI issues and appetite stimulation.
• Avoid later evening doses - Viviscal could possibly disrupt sleep if taken too close to bedtime.
• Spread tablets out - Dividing the daily dose between morning and afternoon may reduce spikes in hunger.
• Take a break periodically - Cycling on and off Viviscal every 3-4 months could help reset any metabolic effects.

Pay attention to when side effects occur based on timing, and adjust your dosage schedule accordingly.

Other Tips for Preventing Weight Gain

Here are some additional strategies to prevent gaining weight while taking Viviscal:

• Measure servings - Use measuring cups and food scales to avoid overestimating portions.
• Read labels - Check calorie and nutrient content to make informed food choices.
• Meal prep - Plan and portion out healthy meals and snacks for the week to remove temptation.
• See your doctor - Consult your physician if you experience concerning weight gain to check for underlying issues.
• Compare products - If weight gain is problematic, consider switching to a similar supplement like Nutrafol that may not affect your weight.

The Bottom Line

Based on a thorough assessment of clinical evidence, ingredients, and user reports, there is no direct causal link between taking Viviscal as directed and weight gain for most people.

Minor fluctuations of a few pounds could occur in some individuals due to factors like fluid retention or increased appetite. But following a healthy diet and exercise regimen can help counteract these potential effects.

Talk to your doctor if you experience significant weight gain while taking Viviscal to rule out any underlying conditions. But in general, Viviscal can be taken safely without weight gain by most adults seeking healthier hair growth.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.