Is Syntha-6 Good for Weight Loss?

Syntha-6 is a protein supplement often used by athletes or individuals looking for a boost in their daily protein intake. Diets with a moderately high protein intake, along with modestly restricted carbohydrates and fats, can have beneficial effects on weight and body composition, notes a 2008 review published in ​Current Opinion in Endocrinology, Diabetes and Obesity​. Because Syntha-6 is a low-calorie food, it can be used in place of a normal meal to lower total calorie intake, increase protein intake and help promote weight loss.

Syntha-6 contains a blend of several types of protein, including whey, casein, milk and egg. Whey is a fast-acting protein, whereas casein is a slower-burning form of protein. Milk protein contains both whey and casein. Eggs are another high quality source of protein, with a very complete amino acid profile. In all, the proteins in Syntha-6 are high quality animal-source proteins, which means they can be easily digested and utilized by the body. Syntha-6 contains a total of 22 grams of protein per 47-gram serving. With 200 calories and 6 grams of fat per serving, Syntha-6, combined with water, can serve as a low- calorie meal.

Whey protein, the primary form of protein in Syntha-6, has been studied for its role in reducing body weight. A study published in 2008 in "Nutrition & Metabolism" administered a whey protein supplement to participants on a 500-calorie reduced diet. Compared to a control group, which was also on a 500-calorie reduced diet, the group consuming the whey protein supplement lost significantly more body fat. The difference in total weight lost, however, was not significant, because of the preservation of lean body mass by the whey protein supplement.

Casein protein has also been researched for its potential to aid in weight loss. A study published in 2007 in "Metabolism" found that both soy and casein protein shakes contributed to significant weight loss in women living with obesity when used as part of a reduced-calorie diet.

If you're interested in using Syntha-6 for weight-loss purposes, consume it as a meal replacement, rather than an addition to your diet. According to a study published in 2004 in the "Journal of Nutrition," meal replacements are not only as effective as conventional weight-loss strategies, but they offer more convenience and a higher adherence rate. Another study published in 2009 in the "International Journal of Clinical Practice" found that high-protein meal replacements, such as Syntha-6, were more effective in reducing abdominal fat when compared to conventional meal replacements.

Syntha-6 is not fortified with vitamins or minerals. When you plan to consume it to replace more than one meal per day, take it along with a multivitamin supplement. Alternatively, blend Syntha-6 protein powder with fruits and vegetables to create a vitamin- and mineral-rich protein shake.