The Calorad Diet

Calorad is a liquid protein diet supplement. First introduced to the United States and Canada in 1984, it promises weight loss as you sleep as well as improved stamina and energy throughout the following day. No scientific studies have been published to support Calorad's claim that it helps people lose weight.

Calorad Claims

Manufacturers of Calorad promise that using it will replace the body's essential and nonessential amino acids as well as its stores of collagen (fibrous tissues in the muscles and joints), which are depleted by free radicals such as pollution, chemical inhalation and cigarette smoke. Calorad also says it will help slow down the body's loss of lean muscle mass from the natural aging process.

Usage

Calorad is available in both liquid and spray form and is designed to take on an empty stomach before bedtime. You are advised not to eat any whole foods three hours prior to taking Calorad, as its manufacturer says this may interfere with the product's success rate.

Ingredients

Calorad's main ingredients are collagen hydrolysate, aloe vera, glycerin, potassium sorbate and lemon flavoring. Collagen hydrolysate, or hydrolyzed collagen, is an "edible product derived from animal proteins and can be eaten in amounts consistent with a normal daily protein intake," according to the Brigham and Women's Hospital. Dieters could acquire the same nutrients from other foods rich in protein, such as eggs, lean meats, nuts and low-fat dairy.

Pure aloe vera, when ingested, is known to have a significant laxative effect on the body, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. If you regularly consume aloe vera before bedtime, you may wake up to painful abdominal cramping or diarrhea. Because of its strong laxative effects, it can also decrease the potency of certain medications or antibiotics and so should be used with caution.

Also contained in this diet supplement is potassium sorbate, which is a preservative and should not be confused with the chemical element potassium, an electrolyte/mineral your body need to function. Finally, glycerin and lemon flavoring are only sweeteners.

The Bottom Line

Before trying Calorad, you should check with your doctor. Although aloe vera is not an essential food for losing weight and replacing muscle, protein is. But you can get protein just as easily through the consumption of other, whole food sources. These foods are more readily available and will cost less than Calorad products (three bottles of Calorad generally cost around $70, as of late 2009). Low-fat, whole foods contain high amounts of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients that better support a healthy lifestyle.