Does Red Clover Cause Weight Gain

What is Red Clover?

Red clover, known scientifically as Trifolium pratense, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the legume family. It is commonly encountered in meadows throughout Europe and Asia, where it thrives in the region’s diverse climates. This plant is distinguished by its vibrant pink to red flowers and its usage in various herbal practices. Red clover is rich in isoflavones, which are phytoestrogens—natural compounds that mimic human oestrogen. Red clover can be good for helping with hot flushes, vaginal dryness and bone loss due to its phytohormonal activity. Due to these potential health benefits, red clover has become a popular component in herbal supplements aimed at enhancing overall well-being.

Scientific Evidence on Red Clover and Body Weight

One of the concerns that people may have about using red clover is its potential influence on body weight.  A 2005  Journal of Gynecological Endocrinology study found no significant effect on body mass index or weight changes in postmenopausal women taking red clover extracts.

How Red Clover is Utilised in Supplements

Red clover, a versatile plant used traditionally in herbal medicine, is now commonly incorporated into various dietary supplements. Offered in multiple forms such as teas, tablets, and capsules, red clover is frequently paired with a blend of other natural herbs and ingredients to enhance its efficacy. The concentration of isoflavones, which are thought to contribute to the potential health benefits, can differ significantly between products. This variance in standardisation may influence the effectiveness of the supplements in promoting health and managing weight.

This article here looks at phytohormone supplements (including recommended dosage) in more detail.

Practical Advice for Those Considering Red Clover

If you are contemplatingusing red clover supplements, it’s important to first seek guidance from a healthcare professional. This step is particularly vital for individuals who have conditions sensitive to hormones, for example women who have had breast cancer or other hormone-dependent tumours. That’s because red clover contains phytoestrogens, which are plant-based compounds capable of affecting hormone balances. Consulting with a medical expert can help ensure that the supplement will not adversely interact with your current health situation or any medications you might be taking. Moreover, a healthcare provider can offer personalised advice based on your specific health needs and conditions, thus helping you make a well-informed decision regarding the use of red clover supplements.

This article was created using several editorial tools, including AI, as part of the process. Human editors reviewed this content before publication.