Metabolic Research Center Review - 15 Things You Need to Know
Metabolic Research Center offers customers a unique approach to the compilation of a weight loss program. The program promises that a customer will lose weight faster than with almost any other diet program. While the Center seems to offer solid meal plans and coaching options, the main problem with programs such as these is compliance. There is very little evidence that people adhere to coaching protocols and even less proof that clients maintain weight loss once they’ve exited the program.
So, we had our research team examine everything included in the Metabolic Research Center program, giving you the information necessary to make your own decision. Below, we cover all aspects of the program and give you the Bottom Line on the product as a whole.
Metabolic Research Center can be purchased through their Official Site.
What is Metabolic Research Center?
Metabolic Research Center is a weight loss system. Instead of advertising the “one for all” method, they offer custom diet plans for men, women, and even children struggling with overweight issues and obesity.
The claim is users will lose three to five pounds a week, depending on the program. Metabolic Research Center also offers consultation, education, guidance, and medical supervision.
Metabolic Research Center locations are throughout the US. Founded in the 1980s, Metabolic Research Center now operates more than 100 locations. Each center is independently owned and operated.
The goal of the company is to help its clients achieve healthy weight loss through a mix of holistic principles with changing lifestyles and special nutrition.
Metabolic Research Center employs a team of doctors, nutritionists, online consultants, nurses, and other medical professionals.
The medical advisory board of Metabolic Research Center includes:
- Robert Oesterle, MD
- Allan N. Spreen, MD
- Carol Kazounis, RD, LDN
Although the Metabolic Research Center has a few profiles based on their location, they all seem to have an A+ from the BBB. However, the file for the headquarters is not rated by the Bureau. Before delving deeper into this weight-loss center, let’s take a look at what the research has to say about some of the aspects in this program:
- Diabetes, Metabolic Syndrome and Obesity: Coaching as a part of the weight-loss process can be important and cost-effective.
- Trials: Genetic testing can show whether or not individuals are susceptible to weight gain, but it has its limitations.
- Nutrition & Metabolism: Protein supplementation does not improve weight management success.
Metabolic Research Center Competitors
| Product | Review | |
|---|---|---|
| Ideal Protein | read | |
| Noom | read |
Metabolic Research Center Personalized Programs
The Metabolic Majic 28-Day Program is a structured, month-long weight loss plan designed by the manufacturer to assist in weight reduction. At a price of $229.00, the program centers around the Metabolic Majic Kit, which contains protein drinks, nutritional shakes, and supplements, all packaged in a convenient tote bag for easy transportation. These components are claimed to synergistically contribute to weight loss.
Differing from other offerings by Metabolic, this program does not offer a personalized approach, instead providing a general weight loss strategy that could potentially suit a wide range of users. The core of the Metabolic Majic Kit is its straightforward, easy-to-follow guidance for weight loss. It promotes the integration of real foods, purchasable from local grocery stores or restaurants, into the user’s diet, supplemented by the products in the kit. The inclusion of a downloadable instructional e-booklet aims to simplify the journey towards healthier living.
A notable feature of the Metabolic Majic Program is the customization option available for the protein drinks. Users can choose from eight different flavors, available in various forms such as powders, concentrates, puddings, and soups, all made from high-quality collagen. The program takes a holistic approach to wellness, including a one-month supply of the thermogenic supplement Phentratrim and the popular MRC-6 product in the kit. Additionally, recognizing the impact of stress on weight management, the program incorporates Cortitrim, a supplement containing a blend of herbs formulated to support a healthy stress response and maintain normal cortisol levels.
The Metabolic Majic Kit is comprehensive, including 56 protein drink packets in selected flavors, a bottle of Phentratrim Plus Supplement, a bottle of MRC-6 Supplement, a box of Caramel Nut Bars, an MRC Blender Bottle Shaker, and an MRC Tote Bag, along with the digital instructional booklet. This booklet, sent via email post-purchase, provides a straightforward, easy-to-follow routine with guidance on food choices, portion control, recipes, and tips for a successful weight loss journey.
The Metabolic Majic 28-Day Program offers a non-personalized, comprehensive approach to weight loss, combining a variety of products and supplements with educational resources. While it may suit a broad audience, individuals considering this program are advised to consult with healthcare professionals before starting any new weight loss regimen.
Detailed Kit Breakdown
The Metabolic Majic Kit includes:
- 56 protein drink packets in selected flavors (valued at $120)
- One bottle of Phentratrim Plus Supplement (90 count, valued at $80.99)
- One bottle of MRC-6 Supplement (180 count, valued at $37.99)
- One box of 7 Caramel Nut Bars (valued at $15)
- An MRC Blender Bottle Shaker (valued at $10)
- An MRC Tote Bag (valued at $2.25)
- A Digital Copy of the Metabolic Majic 28 Day Weight Loss Plan Instruction Booklet
Metabolic Majic 28-Day Program
Metabolic Majic is a month-long program meant to help you lose weight.
When given a complete kit containing their protein drinks, nutritional shakes, and supplements, your weight is “melted” off. The kit costs $229.00 and comes with a tote bag to carry all of the products.
Unlike Metabolic’s other programs, this one does not seem to be personalized to the clients.
Scroll below for one of the best products we’ve seen over the last year.
Metabolic Research Center Ingredients
Every client of the Metabolic Research Center will get a recommended supplement and a set of recipes for their diet program. Although exercise is often a part of such diets, the Metabolic Research Center states working out is not necessary to lose weight with their plan.
Supplements
Metabolic Research Center offers each client supplements consisting of vitamins, minerals, nutrients, protein drinks and bars, and other such products.
Garcinia Cambogia is one supplement recommended by Metabolic Research Center. They also have their own branded products, one of which is called MRC-6. The formula contains vitamin B6, kelp powder, soy lecithin, algae powder, apple cider vinegar, and bromelain.
The protein shakes included in the program are Metashake and High Nutrient Supplement. These shakes are not meant to replace your real food, but rather serve as an addition to your meals, and they also suppress your hunger. These shakes come in various flavors like grapefruit and vanilla.
One serving of the High Nutrient Supplement consists of 90 calories and 15 grams of protein, while the Metashake has 180 calories and 17 grams of protein per one serving.
Recipes
Eating a healthy diet is promoted by Metabolic Research Center. Some recipes include:
- Lemon Herb Chicken
- Parmesan Gruyere Potato Stacks
- Crockpot Turkey Chili
- Honey Mustard Crusted Chicken
- Stuffed Lasagna Boats
- Dijon-glazed Green Beans
- Baked Bell Pepper Eggs
- Fiesta Lime Barbecued Cauliflower Steaks
- Shrimp & Risotto Skillet
- Pumpkin Spice Pancakes
Metabolic Research Center Benefits
Making significant changes to your nutrition on your own can be difficult if you don’t know all the facts. In short, these are some claimed benefits from including yourself in the Metabolic Research Center program:
- Eating Real Food
- Personal Coaching
- Metabolism Boost
- DNA Testing
There is some research connecting various personal coaching methods and weight loss. According to JMIR mHealth and uHealth, personal coaching through apps and phone calls can cause weight loss in the first 6 months. Additionally, research in the International Journal of Telemedicine and Applications found that coaching through phones can lead to “significant long-term weight reductions in overweight persons in an occupational health care setting” – though more research is needed for different subjects.
Additionally, information gathered during these coaching sessions can be major predictors for weight loss, according to the Journal of Medical Internet Research.
CMAJ and Nutrients both note that a diet based in genetics can be promising when it comes to weight loss, but more research is needed to determine if this level of testing can provide the same level of benefits. Research published in the Nutrition Journal found that using this kind of genetic information can lead to longer diet compliance, and inevitable weight loss.
Either way, DNA testing in general can be useful when trying to predict obesity, per the North Carolina Medical Journal for Doctors and Their Patients.
Is Metabolic Research Center Expensive?
There is no fixed price for the Metabolic Research Center program, as the plans are based on each client. One user claims that her program consisted of 17 weeks plus a year of maintenance, which cost her around $300.
The protein shakes are sold separately, and you will spend around $10 a week on them. DNA testing and purchasing other supplements are choices only, but if you buy them, it will cost you much more.
To answer the question, yes, being a client at a Metabolic Research Center is an expensive weight loss strategy. Especially in comparison to some other plans that are proven to work for people and are sometimes even five times cheaper. They do, however, offer a money-back guarantee for their unsatisfied clients.
Details on Metabolic Research Center and Weight Loss
When browsing the Metabolic Research Center website, we found that they make and sell many of their products, from vitamins and minerals to high nutrition supplements, including bars and shakes. These products are all bought separately from the plan.
Metabolic Research Center Product Line
- 7 Keto DHEA
- Corti-Trim
- Soups
- Enhancer
- Enteric Coated Essential Fatty Acid
- Essential Trace Minerals
- Fat and Carb Blocker
- Garcinia Plus – Garcinia Cambogia
- High Nutrition Bars
- Internal Cleanser
- Metabolic Glucose Formula
- Metabolic Super Fruit & Vegetable Drink Powder
- Metashake
- Fiber Drink
- MRC 365 – Superior Joint Support
- MRC Complete Plus – Men’s Multivitamin
- MRC Complete Plus – Women’s Multivitamin
- MRC Immune Support
- MRC-6
- MSM 500mg
- Phentratrim Plus
- RTDs
- Protein Drink
- Sublingual B12
- Super Iodine Plus
- Total Control – Green Coffee Bean Extract
- Total Woman Omega 3-6-9
- Ubiquinol CoQ10
- Very High Protein Drink
- Vitamin B6
- Vitamin D3
- Protein Drink
- Crisps, Wafers, Pudding
Weight loss with their plans is achieved through lower calorie meals and supplements that boost your metabolism and suppress your appetite.
There is no exercise included in any Metabolic Research Center plan. One interesting fact about the Metabolic Research Center is that they advise their clients not to count the calories while on a diet.
This is odd since most diet plans find it essential to track your calorie intake carefully.
How to Use Metabolic Research Center Products?
Once you start and sign the contract with the Metabolic Research Center, you will be guided on how to follow up on your diet. This includes detailed instructions on how the meals are prepared, when it’s best to eat them, and how to take the supplements and vitamins that go along with them.
Most of the supplements come in the form of capsules. Each bottle of capsules will last you for about a month. High nutrition drinks usually contain 7 or 10 servings per bottle.
Bars and shakes also usually come in the size of 7 servings, and the same goes with creams and soups. Make sure to follow the doctor’s instructions on how to take each product correctly, and also how to store the packages that they come with.
Do I Need to Exercise While on a Metabolic Research Center Diet?
Doctors and specialists at Metabolic Research Center do not include any exercise in their plans. If you don’t like working out, this might be good news for you.
However, you should not just sit around all day and do nothing. Light physical routines like walking, riding a bicycle, or doing yoga and fitness are always good for your health.
The theory is that exercising will make you more hungry, but keeping your body active to a certain degree won’t cause you any discomfort and can work to improve your overall physique.
Metabolic Research Center Product Warnings
There is a variety of products that the company sells, and although they claim the supplements are safe, there are some things to look out for.
Super Iodine Plus is a cause for concern, as it provides 8,000 percent of the trace mineral’s daily value.
Are Metabolic Research Center Programs Safe?
This leaves the question of whether the Metabolic Research Center is truthful when speaking about the calorie intake for each of their meals and supplements since they claim that you can lose up to 5 pounds a week, and some even report more weekly weight loss.
This is also why the company suggests that their clients do not count the calories when on one of their diets. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the healthiest way to lose weight is by taking off 1 or 2 pounds a week. This is also the best way to keep your weight from coming back.
Losing weight fast might look like a great idea at first, but you should know that in those situations, you are way more likely to put your body at risk. To ensure that the products are entirely safe, consult about it with the doctor outside who is not associated with the Metabolic Research Center.
The company promotes the eating of healthy foods that cover all the food groups. Note that the doctors from Metabolic Research Center are the company’s employees and that they sometimes might try to sell you some products just for the profit.
Although the plans are expensive, there’s isn’t any actual proof of this. Most people report that the guidance, consultation, and medical supervision from the company’s doctors have been nothing but helpful.
Metabolic Research Center Side Effects
Surprisingly, although Metabolic Research Center products are not always 100% natural, there are few side effects connected with their use. Any person that goes on a diet might experience mutually common rapid weight loss side effects like:
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Upset stomach
- Hunger
However, these are only mild, and no serious Metabolic Research Center side effects have been reported.
Metabolic Research Center Lawsuits
There are no current lawsuits involving the Metabolic Research Center.
Metabolic Research Center Alternatives
While there are benefits of Metabolic Research Center, there are also alternatives, including:
- Incorporating healthy behaviors
- Weight Watchers
- Nutrisystem
- Jenny Craig
Metabolic Research Center Contact Information
- Address: 3229 Highway 17 North Green Cove Springs, FL 32043
- Telephone: 1-800-289-1087
- Email: websupport@emetabolic.com
- Contact form: https://www.weightlossmrc.com/contact-us/
What Users Are Saying
“The metabolic journey has been so good to me, but not without an amazing one on one coach. I’ve never been pressured or shamed. But all the support is so wonderful. When I was a working OR nurse, I was always given a plan that I could follow with my busy schedule, many days without food and water until late in the day. Each individual has an individualized plan. And it works. I’m down 48.2 pounds and I feel so good about myself and my health. I have more energy to play with my grandkids and to tackle my other hobbies. If you’re thinking about weight loss and looking great, please consider Metabolic Research Centers. You won’t be sorry.”
“The employees care only when the client is either currently on a ‘customized’ program or ready to sell a former client more product. When informed we can trade any liquids, puddings, and/or soups for other product flavors, they seem not to have any “in stock” at every inquiry. It’s been several weeks. To trust the process in the beginning and leaving the program with confidence, to being disregarded is quite unnerving. Only want to make a sale. Will not recommend to anyone!!”
“Lorie has been outstanding helping me get started. I’ve only been there a little over two months and I have lost about 23 pounds as of today., I just turned 65 and my mindset has never been there long term. I will update you with my progress. But if you’re struggling, keep an open mind and give it a chance.”
The Bottom Line on Metabolic Research Centers
Metabolic Research Center, self-proclaimed “weight loss specialists,” offers custom plans and counseling to help people lose weight. The company also includes one-on-one coaching, supplements, and a DNA test to improve results. While this is a holistic weight loss solution, there are alternatives to help you reach your goals.
Healthy living involves a lot, including smart food choices, exercise, weight management, and more. Although it can be challenging to make these lifestyle choices, a clinically-proven program exists that can meet your individual needs.
Among the best weight-loss apps we have ever seen is one called Noom. Noom provides human coaching, personalized plans, food logging, and more so that its users can start making healthier choices for their bodies. The app is backed by multiple studies published in scientific journals like Scientific Reports and the Centers for Disease Control.
Right now, Dietspotlight readers can get a free trial offer of Noom. It is only available for a limited time, so check it out before the offer is over!
Learn More About Noom »
Tina
So what happens when you have reached your goal? And stoped the plan. You don’t teach healthy eating habits or daily exercise or walking at least or how important it is to hydrate instead fill your gut with crap pills! This is is crazy place! Omg!!! Suppress eating with pills wow!!
Pati (Verified Purchase)
I was a client for a couple of years and lost 48 pounds though I hit a plateau and got stuck and now I am up about 15 pounds darn it. It works, I liked it but I found the coaches in the center were just not very good. My first coach left during the first go around and I was left out in the wind for a bit. They bounced me around to different people but none were a good match. When I went back I had someone very new who was still losing herself but she was flaky and forgot our appointments a lot. The last coach I had was good until I realized she was lying to me about my weight gains/losses. They set up the scale in a way you couldn’t see what you weighed and they would say you lost a pound or your the same or up just a half and I realized one day she lied about it. I just left and never went back. I recently emailed to ask if they have plant based/vegan menus as I was considering going back but the corporate never replied.
What is the AOD about that the center uses?
Bill (Verified Purchase)
MRC worked well for me. 52 lbs in 5.5 months. There are plenty of options on the menu, and varieties of protein drinks/shakes/bars to keep it fresh. Just like any diet, there are ups and downs. Gaining water weight some days, constipation, plateaus, lack of motivation, etc. If you have a good coach, they know how to point you in the right direction to get you through the rough patches. It is expensive…but for me the cost helped me stay accountable and determined to hit my goal. All in all, I would recommend this program.
I lost 40 pounds on the MCR program. The ladies are very helpful and accommodating. My favorite product is the ready-made‘s. This program is for serious persons who want to lose weight. They make it easy to lose weight with the different menus and programs that that they offer. 🙂
Tania DeRoche (Verified Purchase)
I have only done the prep week and will not continue. My initial discussion was rushed. My time was not valued. Because the lady had a walk in, I had only 10 minutes for my 30 minute appointment. I bought all of the initial pills and protein and was supposed to receive a menu for the next week and it was not included. I felt like I had to continually ask to get what I was supposed to get from them. So initial program for 17 weeks, $149.00. You are required to purchase the protein drinks $$$$$$$, they recommend pills for you to drink $$$$$, the DNA testing mentioned above is not incorporated, it is an additional $200.00. This is one continuous sales process and I have neither the time or patience for it.
Lois Mcinturf
I paid $1,000 plus more for drinks and suppliments . WoW I GOT RIPPED OFF never really explained what suppliments were for even when I asked Found could go elsewhere and buy for lot less just didn’t have metrobolic label How dumb was I Thought if I paid more I would get better service don’t think it worked that way learned lesson hard way
Lucy Cafiero (Verified Purchase)
I have been on the plan for 2 weeks now and down 5 lbs! I even went on vacation the first week and still lost weight because I was very careful with my food choices! I will call this a success once I’m down at least 20 lbs because I have tried them all, WW, Jenny Craig, Noom, Macros, Keto, DDD….and NOTHING WORKED FOR ME. This is working and I def see a difference. So grateful for my team in GA who are very supportive.
Ronnie Medina (Verified Purchase)
I started the program about 2weeks ago. I paid $500 for the program and pills. I was so excited and was promised lots of help. Till today I haven’t lost any weight. I don’t feel any different with the pills. If anything I feel discouraged. The representative that helped me, I feel was a good car salesmen. And I feel for it. I also felt rushed in our consultation. I feel like I bought a lemon. And know I don’t know what to do. Sad day.
It works if you do it!
Its not a diet, its a way to change habits. Work the program and it will work for you. The ladies at the
Tyler,Texas center are awesome!
Ann (Verified Purchase)
The program is working for me. I really like the whole food approach. My only disappointment is their protein supplement drinks; they contain unnecessary dyes. I love the WildBerry drink but it contains Red #40. I am looking for a drink replacement for their supplements because of the addition of the dye. Metabolic Research, consider leaving them out. They are not needed.
Sandy Lynn (Verified Purchase)
Today is my 6th month on the MRC – Metabolic Food and Supplement Plan. FINALLY! A process that works. I use the word process at it is not a diet. This is a plan that has a process that for the serious person – can work. I love the Success Planner – a daily tracking of the important food and tasks to help you keep track. At 56 lbs down – I am never looking back and putting myself in a position where I have to lose again.
sherry
What are all the ingredients in the Metabolic Research protein bars you are required to buy? What are the names of the preservatver? What is the name of the appetite depressent in them? And what kind of artifical sweetner is in them?
Thank you so much.
Hi Sherry. The ingredients are soy protein isolate, whey protein concentrate, casein, milk protein isolate, milk protein concentrate, malitol syrup, glycerin, hydrolyzed gelatin, sugar, vegetable oil, palm oil, palm kernal, soybean oil, peanuts, water, natural and artificial flavors, malted milk powder, barley malt, butter, soy lecithin, malitol, mono and diglyceride, cream, milk, cellulose gel, milk solids, carragenan, cellulose gum, sorbitol, pectin, gellan gum, dicalcium phosphate, sodium phosphate, sodium citrate, sucralose and tocopherol.
The preservatives is tocopherol.
It doesn’t contain an appetite suppressant, but some research shows eating protein causes a reduction in hunger.
The artificial sweeteners are malitol and sucralose.
Kiosio fields
What is the metabolic corporate contact number?
Hello, the corporate phone number is 1-800-501-8090.
JOAN PAUL (Verified Purchase)
It cost $300 to start,drinks are $13 for a box of 7 or $100 for 10 boxes of 7..You are required to drink 3 drinks per day…They have a lot of Diet pills,diet bars etc.
That sounds exactly what I went through.
Hi Joan. We agree with you! You may want to consider choosing another weight loss supplement, like Dietspotlight Burn.
They run specials all the time 1/2 off or $69 for 10 wks or $99 for 17 wks, also the supplements are not required, i’ve never had my consultant tell me i needed to take any, they will only recommend if you ask if you are having any issues, the only requirements are the HNS drinks these high protein and burn fat.
I also have been going to MRC for a month. I have lost 17lbs & 26″. The program is spendy and if you can’t afford the HNS or vitamins etc. they switch your meal plan until you do can. I am happy I’m losing weight but it’s way expensive. It not much different than Atkins.
Your Name (Verified Purchase)
I also lost 50 lbs in 2009. It was wonderful to find something that worked so effectively and I looked great. I did it without buying any of the extra supplements. Fast forward six years and I’ve also gained it all back plus ten. I don’t think I will do it again because all that artificial sweetener gave me brain fog, that is, I found myself forgetting what I was saying mid sentence and was not thinking as clearly. That stopped when I went off the diet. When I went back to try to go back on it – the brain fog came back right away.
I use have used MRC off and on for a couple of years;the first time I lost 20 pounds but didnt quite reach my ‘goal’ weight so had at to sign up again; the program just like any other program, does work if you stick to it although, it is so restrictive that at times it seems impossible-no alcohol or sugar!-I find the supplements help me feel better-yes they are spendy but are all things that are good for you;the menu is basically just protein heavy and very carb light;It will put you in a metabolic state so you burn stored fat..
mikko (Verified Purchase)
I started this program in March. After spending $300 to join (the basic plan, that I had to pay before she would let me look at the “menu”), I have lost zero pounds! I could not stand taking 9 pills (supplements) at each meal!! I also spent well over $100 worth for the protein drinks, protein bars and soup. Unfortunately all the pill taking caused me diverticulitis to flair up also! I dropped about 5 pounds the first week from drinking all the water. Gained it back the next week. From there I never lost another pound, so I quit the program after 1 month! What a waste!!! About $700 down the drain!!! I have now joined WW, taking no pills and have lost 9 pounds in 2 1/2 weeks! I want to be able to eat ‘real’ food and not take a hand full of pills at every meal. I am very disappointed in it all!! I also would not call the “menu” a menu. It is a guide of how many servings of protein/carbs to have at each meal, which is a good guide.
you cant cheat and expect to lose weight
Yeah my coach is trying to blame me too.. I’m having same experience as Mikko. and I’m sticking with it to a T.. slowly Im gaining back what I lost the first week.. Im in 3rd wk now.
have you had your hormones tested? I tested mine upon sign up & results showed all kinds of abnormal results. Once I began working to normalize those, I feel much better. I also have seasonal affective disorder (bi-polar), major depressive disorder & general anxiety disorder. Symptoms for all of these have decreased since I started. I cheat; every week & am still losing weight. I stated from the beginning that I was not interested in losing “fast” & my coaches are fine with that. I have also noted that cerain ‘cheats’ make me feel bloated with gas, nauseated & constipated. I go right back to the menu & feel fine in a day or two. Cheating with certain foods is not worth it!!
Hello Mikko. We’re sorry you had such a bad experience with Metabolic Research Centers. While on WW, you may want to consider using a weight loss supplement like Dietspotlight Burn.
what is a thermogenic
You don’t have to take all the supplements only the HNS drinks
You don’t have to take all the supplements, just do the HNS drinks
S (Verified Purchase)
I’ve been going here for about a month and I’ve already lost 15 pounds and whenever I gain 1 or have a day where I’m just not losing any they’re always so supportive and kind