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Active-PK
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Summary
Active-PK is a dietary supplement from LCR Health that is alleged to reduce fatigue, slim your waist, limit cravings, and provide clearer thinking by increasing AMPK levels inside your body. Strong support for these actions is lacking in human subjects, however.
Pros
- Early results for these ingredients are promising
- Favorable return policy
Cons
- More work is needed in human subjects to identify long-term safety and efficacy
- 2 or 3x more expensive than other brands that offer larger doses
Active-PK Review - Benefits, Ingredients, Efficacy, Side Effects
By Anthony Dugarte, M.D., C.S.C.S
Updated on: May 18, 2020
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What Is Active-PK?
LCR Health claims that Active-PK will boost your 5'-AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) levels with just 3 active ingredients.
According to the company, by taking just 2 capsules daily, you’ll:
- Reduce abdominal fat
- Boost energy
- Think more clearly
- Minimize cravings
- Support a strong, slimmer-feeling body
LCR Health says that these effects are possible without the use of caffeine, dairy, synthetic additives, or animal products.
In this article, we’ll help you gain a better understanding of the potential benefits of Active-PK by discussing the safety and efficacy of ingredients. But first, we’ll talk a bit more about AMPK and Active-PK’s proposed mechanism of action.
How Does Active-PK Work?
AMPK is an enzyme that is found in all mammalian cells. It is activated in an intensity-dependent manner during physical activity. This means that the more challenging the activity, the more active AMPK becomes.
AMPK serves to increase both glucose uptake and fatty acid oxidation, while limiting the synthesis of protein and fats. Essentially, AMPK plays a role in prioritizing energy-generating processes.
According to LCR Health, by boosting AMPK with Active-PK, you will begin to use fat as an energy source rather than storing it.
Active-PK Ingredients and Their Efficacy: Can They Help You Lose Weight?
The Active-PK ingredients thought to be responsible for the purported benefits:
- Gynostemma Pentaphyllum Leaf Extract 450 mg
- Quercetin Dihydrate 100 mg
- Berberine HCl 100 mg
Obese subjects randomized to 450mg daily of gynostemma pentaphyyllum over 12-weeks experienced significant reductions in body weight, body fat mass, percent body fat, and BMI.
Diabetic patients that were randomized to treatment with gynostemma pentaphyllum at 6g daily over 12-weeks experienced significant decreases in fasting blood glucose levels, HbA(1C), and insulin resistance compared to controls.
In high-fat diet mice, supplementation with 0.8% quercetin produced short-term increases in energy expenditure; while present at 3-weeks, this was no longer evident after 8-weeks.
In 58 healthy subjects randomized to 1 g/day of quercetin or placebo, those receiving quercetin did not experience alterations in energy, fatigue, or sleep quality over 6-weeks.
Berberine reduced body fat and improved insulin sensitivity in obese, diabetic rats. These effects seemed to be related to berberine’s ability to activate AMPK in both fat and muscle cells. The AMPK-related effects of berberine were corroborated in another mouse study.
Regarding human studies, 30 randomized patients with heart disease, treatment with 300mg of berberine daily activated AMPK and reduced inflammation related to cholesterol.
In another trial, 24 subjects with metabolic syndrome were randomized; those that received 500mg of berberine three times daily over 3-months experienced remission, decreased waist circumference, and insulin secretion.
We contacted Dr. Erik A. Richter, professor of molecular physiology at the University of Copenhagen, for a professional opinion.
“In my professional opinion,” Richter said, “It’s not possible for over-the-counter ingredients to meaningfully boost AMPK levels and result in benefits such as increased energy, better brain function, and weight loss.”
However, he emphasized, “there are multiple pharma companies working on AMPK activators, so it is not an impossible future possibility.”
Side Effects
Active-PK offers a blend of natural ingredients, though this doesn’t necessarily guarantee safety.
While up to 5x the dose of quercetin found in Active-PK has been used safely over a 6-week span without serious adverse effects, it’s unknown if it’s safe for long-term use.
In a 12-week study, there were no episodes of hypoglycemia or adverse effects at gynostemma doses more than 5x the dose included in Active-PK.
In a 12-week study, 1500mg of berberine daily was not associated with serious adverse effects, though mild gastrointestinal symptoms are possible.
Though the risk for using Active-PK is low, and associated side effects are mild, it’s still a good idea to speak with your doctor before using any new supplements.
Cost and Return Policy
Active-PK is available directly from the LCR Health website. Current pricing is listed below:
- 1 Bottle: $89.95
- 3 Bottles: $242.85 ($80.95 per bottle)
- 6 Bottles: $455.70 ($75.95 per bottle)
All orders are backed with LCR Health’s 90-day guarantee. To process your refund, call support at (800) 384-8308 or email them at support@LCRHealth.com.
What Are the Alternatives to Active-PK?
This blend of ingredients is not unique to Active-PK. While formulations vary by pricing and dosing, as well as the included ingredients, there are a number of other supplements that offer similar blends.
AMPK Booster from SuperSmart offers more gynostemma and a comparable dose of berberine, though it lacks the quercetin content. Nonetheless, for a similar blend, you’ll pay just $42 for a 1-month supply.
AMPK-4 Activator contains more gynostemma, berberine, and quercetin when compared to Active-PK. Priced at just $35.99 for a 45-day supply, this is the most cost-effective option yet.
The Bottom Line: Is Active-PK Worth It?
Active-PK offers a blend of natural ingredients with some support for their ability to support fat loss, though much of the support is in animal and laboratory models. Oftentimes, benefits were found at doses higher than those offered in this supplement.
More randomized trials are needed to determine the long-term effects, if any, in human subjects.
With the lack of strong scientific support, it may be hard to justify the hefty price tag, especially with other more cost-effective products on the market.
Nonetheless, users seem to be generally pleased with Active-PK. More than 225 rated it 4.1 stars at HighYa. Those pleased report excellent customer service, as well as weight loss, improved sleep, fewer cravings, and more energy.
If you’re interested in using Active-PK or similar ingredients, be sure to discuss their safety with your doctor first.
Customer Reviews
Posted on Jun 19, 2017
Disappointing product
I am onto my second bottle now. My weight is exactly the same. I took two tablets early in the morning every day until the last week, where I only took one tablet in the morning. I now just take the one tablet daily. I was getting very bad nausea every night from the tablets. The sickness was terrible. I didn't feel sick in the beginning, it built up over time. Taking just one tablet is better. I also got very painful leg cramps in the calf muscles in the beginning. They seem to have eased up now. As I bought three bottles originally, I will keep on going until the end.
Bottom Line: No, I would not recommend this to a friend
Company Response from LCR Health
Jul 12, 2017
Hi Lea, Taylor here with LCR Health. I am sorry to hear that you have not experienced the results you anticipated from taking Active-PK thus far. We stand by our 90-day money back guarantee to ensure that each customer has a fair amount of time to begin seeing the benefits of Active PK, as some people may take longer to see results than others.
I would be more than happy to issue you a refund at the end of your trial period if you are still dissatisfied with Active-PK at that point. Please keep in mind that it is always very important to consult your physician, prior to starting any new supplement, especially if any type of side effects occur.
Please send me an email at [email protected] if you have any further questions or comments, or if you would like me to begin processing your refund for you. Thank you Lea.
Helpful Review?
44 People Have Voted
Posted on Aug 9, 2017
Active-PK
Hi. So far I give it no stars!
I've been using it for one week, and so far I gained five pounds. My eating habits have not changed. I'm gluten intolerant, therefore, my diet stayed the same. I still workout daily, walk the dog, etc.
I don't get it! I will give it a go for 30 days and then will give more feedback to all. I wrote to them and haven't heard. I'm just wondering if I must be doing something else? It seemed so easy; two pills daily, that's it!
Bottom Line: Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Company Response from LCR Health
Aug 11, 2017
Hi there Sylvie, thank you for leaving us a valuable review on your experience so far with Active-PK. I am sorry to hear that you are not receiving the benefits you were expecting as of yet. We always recommend that our customers give the product at least 30 days for it to work and for your body to adjust to it. We stand by our 90-day money back guarantee, so if any point you are dissatisfied, you are welcome to return the product for a full refund. Please email me personally at taylor@lcrhealth.com with any questions or comments you may have. Thank you Sylvie.
Helpful Review?
7 People Have Voted
Posted on Aug 17, 2017
Placebo?
I took as directed for two months to curb my appetite but it had absolutely no impact whatsoever. Very disappointing. I was skeptical but ordered it because they offered a full refund minus the return shipping. I am a firm believer that weight loss or appetite suppressant is never an easy thing. My advice, buyer beware!
Bottom Line: No, I would not recommend this to a friend
Company Response from LCR Health
Aug 25, 2017
Hi Hilary, thank you for letting me know about your experience with Active-PK. I am so sorry that you did not experience the many benefits that Active-PK has to offer but thank you for giving our product a fair try.
I’m happy to hear that you took advantage of our effortless return policy! Again, thank you for giving our product a try Hilary! Please e-mail me at taylor@lcrhealth.com if you have any questions or concerns!
Helpful Review?
11 People Have Voted
Posted on Sep 5, 2017
It didn't help me lose anything.
I gave Active PK a try. After a few weeks, I called and said it wasn't helping and I wanted to send it back. They said, "No, no, please keep trying it, try three a day instead of two." Well, that didn't help either, so I called again and said I want to send them back. The response was "Try four pills a day; try two in the morning and two in the afternoon for a few weeks." That didn't help either.
By that time I was half done with my pills and decided to send them back. They did not give me a full refund, only half a refund, because of all the pills I tried and couldn't return. They were not honest, as the company said they would give a 90-day full refund. I would not recommend this product.
Bottom Line: No, I would not recommend this to a friend
Company Response from LCR Health
Sep 6, 2017
Hi there Kathleen. Thank you so much for letting me know about your experience with Active-PK. I am so sorry that you did not experience the many benefits of Active-PK. While a majority of our customers love Active-PK, we realize that it does not work the same way for everyone. As it is the industry standard, we do ask that you return the products when requesting a full refund, as to ensure that you gave the product a fair trial. As an extra convenience, we offer a 40% refund to customers who decide to not send back the product containers. Please email me directly at Taylor@lcrhealth.com, and I will be more than happy to issue you a full refund, no need to send anything back, regardless of how long it has been. Thank you.
Helpful Review?
57 People Have Voted
Posted on Dec 20, 2017
Save your money
I bought this product as suggested and got a 3-month supply. It did not do anything for me. I wonder how it worked for others. I followed the directions as stated on the bottle. I will not be wasting any more money on this product.
Bottom Line: No, I would not recommend this to a friend
Company Response from LCR Health
Dec 29, 2017
Hi David, thank you so much for taking the time to leave us a review about your experience with Active-PK. I am so sorry to hear that you did not experience all of the results you had expected when taking Active-PK. As with all products, we do understand it may work for some and not for others. I would be more than happy to issue you a full refund! Please email me at Taylor@lcrhealth.com and I can assist you with this right away! I look forward to hearing from you!
Helpful Review?
38 People Have Voted
Posted on Apr 25, 2018
Would like to review the product, but it is taking so long to get it...
Very slow in getting the product shipped to me. This is the worst I have experienced ordering any supplement online. Makes me think the company is at best totally lame, or at worst a scam. I am about ready to ask for a refund because I am tired of waiting.
Bottom Line: No, I would not recommend this to a friend
Company Response from LCR Health
Apr 25, 2018
Hi Peggie, I'm Taylor from LCR Health. Thank you so much for reaching out. I am so sorry to hear that you are experiencing this! According to our records, I can see that the package was delivered to you. I would like to make sure that you have received it since writing this review. Please email me at Taylor@LCRHealth.com if there are any outstanding issues. In addition, if you would still like to receive a refund, just email me and I can assist you with that process as well! I look forward to hearing from you to ensure that everything is resolved.
Helpful Review?
6 People Have Voted
Posted on Apr 26, 2018
Wire fraud
In my opinion, the whole online sales process for this product is nothing more than a scam. I ordered $127.00 worth of product on 4/9/18 and got a printable receipt stating that my order would be shipped in 24 hours. Eight days later I called to see where it was. I was told that it was in the warehouse and would be shipped out that afternoon. Two days later, I called again and got the same response - it's in the warehouse. Why is it in your warehouse and not at my house? I live just three hours away from their location.
I asked that my order be canceled and monies returned to my account. Supposedly, only a supervisor could do that, and there were none available at that time. I left my name and phone number with a request that I receive a return call. It's after 2:00 Friday afternoon, 24 hours later, and I've still not had the courtesy of a call. There is definitely something not right.
Bottom Line: No, I would not recommend this to a friend
Company Response from LCR Health
Apr 27, 2018
Hi John, I'm Taylor from LCR Health. Thank you so much for reaching out. I am truly so sorry to hear about the frustration and inconvenience that you have experienced. Typically, our shipments take up to 7-10 days to arrive at their destination, but due to the high demand of Active-PK, it may take a little longer. I would be more than happy to issue you a full refund right away. Please email me to my personal email, Taylor@LCRHealth.com, and I can begin the refund process right away. Again, I am so sorry for the miscommunication and confusion that we have caused. I look forward to hearing from you and making this right!
Helpful Review?
17 People Have Voted
Posted on Jun 12, 2018
No loss
I have been taking two tablets every morning for the last four weeks. There has been NO weight loss or tummy loss. I am active as I walk every day and go to the gym at least three times a week. I have always had energy so can't really tell if that helped. What do I do now?
Bottom Line: No, I would not recommend this to a friend
Company Response from LCR Health
Jun 13, 2018
Hi Beth, my name is Taylor with LCR Health. Thank you for giving Active-PK a try! While many of our customers experience all of Active-PK’s benefits right away, it can typically take three months to see maximum results. I encourage you to continue taking the tablets every morning as you have been doing! As we understand everybody is different, we will wholeheartedly stand by our 90-day money back guarantee, no questions asked. Please feel free to reach out to me at taylor@lcrhealth.com with any future questions, comments, or if you decide to take advantage of our refund policy.
Helpful Review?
10 People Have Voted
Posted on Aug 1, 2018
Rip-off! Totally!
I took it, as directed, for three months. Not one pound, not one inch did I lose. I might as well have eaten mothballs for the same effect. I will give it NO STARS. My advice is, do NOT buy!
Bottom Line: No, I would not recommend this to a friend
Company Response from LCR Health
Aug 2, 2018
Hi Bob, my name is Taylor with LCR Health. Thank you for taking the time to leave a review. I’m very sorry to hear that you did not experience the results you were expecting. We understand that everybody is different so we will always honor our 90-day money back guarantee. Please email me at taylor@lcrhealth.com, and I will be more than happy to issue you a full refund.
Helpful Review?
22 People Have Voted
Posted on Aug 22, 2018
LCR Health
My review is on LCR Health. I bought a 90-day supply of their Active Stem, which was an absolute waste of time and money. This product also came with a 90-day money back guarantee. I had to file a BBB complaint in order to get my refund. Bottom line, LCR Health is a SCAM, save your time and money.
Bottom Line: No, I would not recommend this to a friend
Company Response from Gundry MD
Aug 23, 2018
Hi James, my name is Taylor with LCR Health. I'm very sorry to hear that this was your experience with us. Customer experience is our number one priority, and I want to apologize that your experience was not a reflection of this. I will look into this immediately and ensure it does not happen again. Please email me personally at taylor@lcrhealth.com and I would love an opportunity to make this right! Again, apologies for any inconvenience and confusion we have caused.
Helpful Review?
14 People Have Voted
Posted on Oct 2, 2018
LCR Health will do their best to rip you off
I did try Active-PK from LCR Health. I couldn't tell that it did anything for me. When I called them, they said perhaps I had not taken it for long enough and made me an offer to sell me a 90-day supply for about half of their retail price. I agreed to try it for a longer period of time, for three more months. I still could not see or feel any results like they described in their literature.
Now get this! I didn't order any more of their Active-PK product. Today, October 1, 2018, I received an email saying they HAVE shipped me a 6-bottle order of Active-PK on my MEMBERSHIP. I never signed up for any membership. I called them. A lady on the phone agreed to cancel my "membership" and instructed me to call when I received the order for a "Return Authorization." Once they receive my return, they will refund the cost to my credit card. Sure enough, they have charged my credit card without my permission! Watch out. LCR Health will try to rip you off.
Bottom Line: No, I would not recommend this to a friend
Company Response from LCR Health
Nov 14, 2018
Hi Rex, my name is Taylor with LCR Health. Thank you for taking the time to share your experience. I'm very sorry to hear that this was your experience; it is never our intention to confuse our customers or charge their credit cards without authorization. That would be unethical. It sounds like you may have accidentally signed up for our VIP Membership program which is completely optional. Please email me at taylor@lcrhealth.com, and I will be more than happy to further discuss your experience and to look into your account to ensure that you are fully refunded. Again, I want to apologize for any inconvenience! I look forward to making this right.
Helpful Review?
62 People Have Voted
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