Written by Steve Theunissen | ISSA: CPT & Fitness Nutrition
Fact checked by Robert Iafelice, MS, RD, LDN
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In the never-ending quest to torch fat from our bodies, we are constantly looking for workouts, gadgets, and weight loss supplements that will get us to our goal faster. SKALD Oxydynamic Fat Scorcher is a natural fat burner that promises to do just that. Created by a former bodybuilder and MMA fighter, SKALD has been around for a number of years, establishing itself as a solid player in the market.
But how good is it really?
Let's lift the lid on SKALD to find out.
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What is SKALD?
SKALD Oxydynamic Fat Scorcher is a natural fat-burning supplement. It is manufactured by BELDT Labs; a company started in 2011 by former bodybuilder and MMA fighter James Atkins. This product is a thermogenic fat burner, helping to incinerate fat by increasing the body's internal temperature. SKALD is a vegan-friendly fat burner that promises to improve energy levels, curb cravings, provide respiratory support, and improve mood.
A unique selling point that BELDT Labs highlight is that SKALD is the only fat burner that combines elecampane with Juniper Berry, an all-natural but powerful extract that improves lipolysis and increases your basal metabolic rate, which is the breakdown of fats for energy.
SKALD Review: Pass or Fail?
SKALD is an interesting supplement that contains ingredients that you don't see in other fat burners. These include elecampane, which helps clear the airways for improved cardio. It also contains your standard thermogenic ingredients, including caffeine and tyrosine.
The problem is that SKALD is a proprietary brand formula. That means that there is no way of knowing how much of each ingredient you're getting. However, the label does reveal that there are 110 mg of caffeine in each dose. That is not very encouraging, being not much more than you'd get in a cup of coffee.
Without knowing how much of each ingredient is in a fat burner, you have no way of knowing whether each ingredient is going to be clinically effective. We do know that the total ingredient dosage is 356 mg. When we take out the 110 mg for caffeine anhydrous, that leaves 246 mg to be shared between seven ingredients. From that, we can conclude that some, or all, of these ingredients, are probably underdosed.
Customer feedback seems to support the contention that SKALD is underdosed. While there are many reports of reduced appetite and increased energy, the actual weight loss results that are attributed to taking this supplement are decidedly mixed.
Overall Verdict: FAIL - Proprietary blend
Pros
- Contains elecampane
- Boosts respiratory recuperation
- Increases energy
- Curbs appetite
- Thermogenic properties
Cons
- Proprietary blend
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8 SKALD Ingredients
SKALD contains eight ingredients that BELDT Labs claims are backed by scientific evidence supporting their ability to promote fat loss. Let's dig into the research to find out for ourselves.
1. Caffeine Anhydrous
Caffeine anhydrous is the dehydrated form of caffeine. It is added to fat-burning supplements due to its thermogenic capabilities. Caffeine has been shown to stimulate the central nervous system and enhance the breakdown of fatty acids, leading to their conversion into energy. Caffeine has also been shown to improve mental focus and increase metabolism.
There have been a number of studies supporting the use of caffeine anhydrous as a fat burner. In a 2018 meta-study, a number of previous studies were analyzed. After studying thirteen peer-reviewed clinical studies with 606 participants, it was concluded that caffeine might promote weight, BMI, and body fat reduction.¹
There are 110 mg of caffeine in each dose of SKALD fat burner. This is considerably lower than the amount you find in most competing fat burners, as well as the amounts used in clinical trials. It is unlikely to be enough to bring about an appreciable thermogenic effect.
2. N-Acetyl-Tyrosine
N-Acetyl-Tyrosine is a form of the amino acid tyrosine that is more readily absorbed by the body. Tyrosine is involved in the production of two neurotransmitters, dopamine and norepinephrine, that can affect mood and cognitive function. Taking tyrosine supplements can, therefore, improve brain performance and help reduce stress during vigorous exercise.²
N-Acetyl-Tyrosine is included in SKALD fat burner because it may boost concentration and lower stress levels while exercising, both of which may result in better physical performance and weight loss. However, there is little information specifically on N-Acetyl-Tyrosine's impact on metabolism or weight loss.
3. Green Tea Leaf Extract
Green tea leaf extract is made from the leaves of the camellia sinensis plant, which is abundant in the antioxidant catechins. It has been demonstrated that catechins provide a range of health advantages, including enhancing metabolism, raising fat oxidation, and lowering inflammation. One catechin in particular, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), has been researched for its possible benefits on metabolism and weight loss.
Green tea extract has been added to SKALD fat burner in an effort to increase metabolism and encourage fat burning. Although there have been conflicting findings and more research is required, some studies have suggested that green tea extract might boost metabolic rate and aid in weight loss.
In a 2008 study, it was found that taking green tea extract significantly increased 24-hour energy expenditure and fat oxidation when accompanied by moderate-intensity exercise.³
4. Juniper Berry Extract
The juniper plant produces berries that have long been used medicinally, particularly as a diuretic and a cure for stomach problems. Juniper berry extract is included in the SKALD fat burner in an effort to reduce water retention and bloating, which can lead to weight gain.⁴ Further studies are required to fully understand the potential benefits of juniper berry extract, which also may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
While juniper berry extract is typically regarded as safe in small doses, high doses have the potential to cause side effects like stomach upset and kidney issues. Moreover, juniper berries may have contraindications with certain medications.
5. White Willow Bark Extract
White willow bark extract, made from the bark of the white willow tree, has been used for centuries as a natural pain reliever. It is included in SKALD fat burner because it may lessen inflammation and pain brought on by intense exercise, which could speed up recuperation and possibly enhance weight loss.
Salicin, a naturally occurring molecule found in white willow bark extract, has similar physiological effects to aspirin. Salicin has been demonstrated to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. However, additional studies are required to completely understand these potential advantages.⁵
While taking small doses of white willow bark extract is generally regarded as safe, taking large doses can have unfavorable side effects, such as upset stomach, ringing in the ears, and an increased risk of bleeding. While we don't know exactly how much white willow bark is in SKALD, the overall dosage suggests that it is not enough to cause such reactions.
6. Verbascum Thapsus Leaf Powder
Verbascum thapsus, also known as mullein, is a plant that grows all over the world. It has been used for many years in traditional medicine to treat a variety of illnesses, including pain, inflammation, and respiratory problems. Verbascum thapsus leaf powder is used in SKALD fat burner in an effort to reduce inflammation and enhance respiratory function while exercising. This can enhance performance and possibly assist in weight reduction.
Even though there isn't much research directly examining the effects of Verbascum thapsus leaf powder on metabolism or weight reduction, some research has revealed that mullein extract may have anti-inflammatory and respiratory advantages.⁶
7. Elecampane Root Powder
Elecampane, or inula helenium, is a plant that is indigenous to Europe and Asia. Its roots have long been used to treat inflammation, digestive disorders, and respiratory problems in herbal therapy. Elecampane root powder is included in SKALD fat burner due to its ability to enhance respiratory function during exercise and enhance performance as well as weight reduction.⁷
There isn't much information about how elecampane root powder affects metabolism or weight loss, although some studies have suggested that elecampane may be good for the lungs and anti-inflammatory.
8. BioPerine Black Pepper Fruit Extract
BioPerine black pepper fruit extract is included in SKALD's fat-burning formula because it may enhance the supplement's other ingredients' absorption and potency. BioPerine may also assist SKALD fat burner's other components to work more effectively by enhancing nutrient absorption.
BioPerine is a black pepper fruit extract with a registered trademark that is often found in nutritional supplements. It is standardized to have a high concentration of the active ingredient piperine and is made from the fruit of the Piper nigrum plant.
It has been demonstrated that piperine may help with better nutritional absorption, including the absorption of several vitamins and minerals.⁸ Additionally, some studies have indicated that piperine might be advantageous for metabolism and weight loss.
Claimed Benefits of SKALD
BELDT Labs claims the SKALD is able to promote fat loss and help you achieve your body composition and fitness goals through the following five mechanisms:
1. Suppresses appetite
SKALD is claimed to be able to have an appetite-suppressing effect to help you reduce your daily caloric intake. This will help you achieve the daily negative calorie balance that is the key to weight loss.
Caffeine anhydrous is one of the main components of SKALD fat burner, which may aid in appetite regulation. It has been demonstrated that caffeine may help people feel fuller and eat less by influencing the hormones that control satiety and hunger.
N-Acetyl-Tyrosine is another component of the SKALD fat burner that may aid in appetite suppression. Some studies have suggested that this substance, which is involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters that control appetite and mood, may be useful for reducing food cravings.
Green tea extract has also been demonstrated to have potential appetite-suppressing properties. According to some research, the components of green tea extract may assist in enhancing levels of hormones that encourage feelings of fullness while decreasing levels of the hunger hormone ghrelin.
2. Increases energy
SKALD includes several ingredients, such as caffeine anhydrous, green tea extract, and n-acetyl-tyrosine - to boost energy levels. The greater your energy level, the more effectively you'll be able to exercise for fat loss and overall health improvement.
3. Boosts mood
By including mood-boosting ingredients, the makers of SKALD have attempted to offset the challenging mental effects of losing weight. N-Acetyl-Tyrosine and caffeine are the main ingredients that are believed to provide mood-boosting benefits.
4. Speeds up metabolism
By speeding up the metabolism, SKALD will improve calorie burn, even when you are in a resting state. By producing a thermogenic effect, where the body's internal temperature increases, the body must produce more energy to lower the temperature back to a state of homeostasis. This increased energy demand leads to an increased metabolic rate.
5. Respiratory support
The ability to provide respiratory support is a unique aspect of SKALD fat burner. BELDT Labs claims that its oxy-dynamic formula, built around elecampane and mullein, will help clear the airways for improved cardio while also soothing and relaxing the lungs.
Side Effects of SKALD
SKALD is a safe product when taken in accordance with the manufacturer's directions. However, it does contain some ingredients that may cause problems if taken in excessive doses or if you are sensitive to them.
People who are sensitive to caffeine may experience jitteriness and headaches. However, the 110 mg of caffeine anhydrous in each serving is unlikely to be a problem for most people.
Some people may experience upset stomach, including gas and bloating, from such ingredients as green tea extract and white willow bark.
Pregnant or nursing women should avoid SKALD or any other fat burner.
Real Customer SKALD Reviews
SKALD Fat Burner has an Amazon rating of 3.4 out of 5 stars based on 3,276 reviews. Here are a couple of typical reviews covering both good and bad points:
Who should take SKALD?
SKALD should be taken by people who are exercising to lose body fat and are following a healthy weight-reduction diet. It is not designed as a stand-alone weight reduction solution.
When should you take SKALD?
BELDT Labs recommends taking SKALD fat burner 30 minutes before breakfast.
How should you take SKALD?
The recommended dosage for SKALD is one capsule per day. However, the product label states that, if desired, you can take an additional capsule 5-6 hours later.
Where to get SKALD?
SKALD can be purchased from the official website and from Amazon.
3 SKALD Alternatives
Now that we've taken a close look at what you get with SKALD let's see how it compares to the competition. Here are three alternatives to SKALD that are well with considering:
1. PhenQ
PhenQ is a very popular weight loss supplement that is manufactured by Wolfson Berg. There are five different mechanisms that are claimed to work together to produce weight loss results. These are:
- Stimulating fat breakdown
- Appetite suppression
- Inhibiting fat production
- Increasing metabolism
- Mood enhancement
PhenQ contains the following ingredients and dosages:
- Calcium – 230mg
- Chromium – 80mcg
- L-Carnitine – 150mg
- Caffeine anhydrous – 100mg
- Nopal cactus fiber – 20mg
- Capsimax Plus Blend (containing caffeine, capsicum fruit extract, niacin, and black pepper extract) – 50mg
- a-LACYS RESET (alpha-lipoic acid and L-cysteine) – 25mg
Unlike SKALD, the manufacturer of PhenQ does not hide the ingredients behind a proprietary label. The most unique ingredient is a-LACYS RESET. This is a patented blend of alpha-lipoic acid and cysteine. Alpha-lipoic acid is a potent antioxidant that can help shield cells from oxidative damage, while cysteine is an amino acid used in the synthesis of glutathione, a potent antioxidant that aids in shielding cells from free radical damage.
These two components may work in concert to raise metabolic rate and encourage fat oxidation, which may result in weight loss and improvements to body composition. Check out our full review of PhenQ.
Pros
- Contains a-LACYS RESET
- Lots of positive reviews
- Five weight loss mechanisms
Cons
- Relatively low caffeine dosage
PhenQ is a unique and powerful new slimming formula that will help you achieve what others are just promising. With PhenQ weight loss pills...
2. Instant Knockout
Instant Knockout is a weight loss supplement that was originally created to help MMA fighters make competition weight. It includes a mixture of organic compounds intended to boost metabolism, encourage fat burning, and curb appetite.
Although the supplement is primarily targeted at athletes and bodybuilders, it might be appropriate for anyone trying to reduce their weight and improve their general health.
Caffeine anhydrous, glucomannan, green tea extract, and cayenne pepper are some of the main ingredients in Instant Knockout. These ingredients are designed to work in conjunction to boost metabolism, control hunger, and encourage fat burning. For a deeper look check out our Instant Knockout full review.
Pros
- Contains glucomannan for appetite suppression
- Boosts metabolism
- Designed for athletes
Cons
- Not 3rd party tested
Instant Knockout Cut utilizes the latest advances in natural weight loss understanding to produce a supplement that is in the corner of professional athletes around the world. The trademark...
3. PhenGold
PhenGold is a weight loss supplement and thermogenic fat burner that contains such ingredients as l-theanine and niacin to boost the metabolism.
Other ingredients include DMAE, Rhodiola, l-tyrosine, caffeine, and capsaicin. These ingredients are designed to work together to increase metabolic rate, suppress appetite, and increase fat burning, which may help to promote weight loss and improve body composition.
In addition to promoting thermogenesis, PhenGold is also designed to suppress the appetite, reduce stress and improve mood. The recommended dosage is two capsules per day. For a complete ingredient breakdown, read our PhenGold review.
Pros
- Thermogenic fat burner
- Suppresses appetite
- Research-backed ingredients
Cons
- Only available from the official website
Formulated by experts, PhenGold has been scrupulously designed and developed using carefully selected, exhaustively researched, clinically proven ingredients to...
SKALD FAQs
Will SKALD help me lose weight?
SKALD may help you lose fat and weight, provided that you are exercising and maintaining a low-calorie, healthy diet. However, verified users have received mixed results in terms of weight loss when taking this product.
How long does it take SKALD to work?
The amount of time it takes for SKALD fat burner to work may differ depending on a person's gender, weight, and lifestyle habits. Most of the ingredients require some time to build up in the body. As a result, it may take 2-3 weeks before you notice any difference from taking SKALD.
What are the side effects of taking SKALD?
Some people have experienced minor side effects from taking SKALD, including nausea, gas, and bloating. In most cases, these side effects subside after 2-3 weeks of use.
How does SKALD fat burner work?
SKALD fat burner works by suppressing the appetite, increasing energy levels, speeding up the metabolism, and boosting mood. A further unique aspect of SKALD fat burner is that it contains ingredients that provide respiratory support to help clear the airways for improved cardio while also soothing and relaxing the lungs.
Summary
SKALD is an interesting fat burner with a couple of unique ingredients designed to support cardio recovery so you can workout out longer. In terms of fat loss capability, however, it is missing some key ingredients, such as conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), raspberry ketones, and synephrine, and those that are present seem to be underdosed. Unfortunately, we will never know the exact dosages because the ingredients are labeled as a proprietary blend.
Overall, we do not consider SKALD to be an effective fat burner. We think there are other weight loss pills you should spend your money on, such as PhenQ.
PhenQ is a unique and powerful new slimming formula that will help you achieve what others are just promising. With PhenQ weight loss pills...
Interested in learning about other fat burners? Check out our full reviews on Leanbean and PHEN24.
References
- Tabrizi, Reza, et al. "The Effects of Caffeine Intake on Weight Loss: A Systematic Review and Dos-Response Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials." Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, vol. 59, no. 16, 2019, pp. 2688–2696
- Young, Simon N. "L-Tyrosine to Alleviate the Effects of Stress?" Journal of Psychiatry & Neuroscience, vol. 32, no. 3, 1 May 2007, p. 224
- Venables, Michelle C, et al. "Green Tea Extract Ingestion, Fat Oxidation, and Glucose Tolerance in Healthy Humans." The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, vol. 87, no. 3, 1 Mar. 2008, pp. 778–784
- Han, Xuesheng, and Tory L. Parker. "Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Juniper (Juniperus Communis) Berry Essential Oil in Human Dermal Fibroblasts." Cogent Medicine, vol. 4, no. 1, 16 Mar. 2017
- M, Shara, and Stohs Sj. "Efficacy and Safety of White Willow Bark (Salix Alba) Extracts." Phytotherapy Research : PTR, 1 Aug. 2015
- Turker, Arzu Ucar, and Ekrem Gurel. "Common Mullein (Verbascum Thapsus L.): Recent Advances in Research." Phytotherapy Research, vol. 19, no. 9, 2005, pp. 733–739
- Nakazawa, H., et al. "Viral Respiratory Infection Causes Airway Hyperresponsiveness and Decreases Histamine N-Methyltransferase Activity in Guinea Pigs." American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, vol. 149, no. 5, 1 May 1994, pp. 1180–1185
- G, Shoba, et al. "Influence of Piperine on the Pharmacokinetics of Curcumin in Animals and Human Volunteers." Planta Medica, 1 May 1998
Steve Theunissen
Author