Does borage oil really make you gain weight?

What You Need to Know About Borage Oil and Weight Gain

• Borage oil does not cause weight gain: there is no proven causal link between its consumption and weight gain
• It contains 20-24% of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid with anti-inflammatory properties
• Temporary bloating at the start of the treatment is not fat, but water and air, which disappear within 1–2 weeks
• Choose an oil guaranteed to be free of pyrrolizidine alkaloids to prevent liver toxicity
• Combine the treatment with regular physical activity and take it with meals for optimal results

A client asked me this question last week: «Stéphanie, does borage oil make you gain weight?» She had just started a course of capsules because of her premenstrual syndrome and was terrified of gaining weight. I'm going to be honest with you: Borage oil and weight gain, ...it's a topic rife with misconceptions, and it annoys me to see so much misinformation circulating.

So let's get this straight right away: no, borage oil doesn't make you gain weight. It may even have an effect on your fat metabolism and limit the water retention, two factors that actually affect body shape. What often misleads people is the confusion between temporary bloating and actual fat gain.

💡 Borage oil, extracted from the plant Borago officinalis, is one of the plant sources richest in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid with recognized anti-inflammatory properties.

Why does borage oil have a bad reputation when it comes to weight gain?

This reputation stems mainly from the bloating and digestive problems that some people experience at the beginning of a weight-loss program. The belly swells, the scale goes up by a few hundred grams, and suddenly, everyone’s up in arms! Except that it’s absolutely not fat—it’s water and air.

This is a temporary phenomenon. It usually goes away after one to two weeks, as your body adjusts to the intake of omega-6. My little coaching secret: always start with a small amount; your digestive system will thank you.

Another point that adds to the confusion: borage oil is often compared to’evening primrose oil. Both contain AGL, but borage contains nearly twice as much! As a result, its effects are more pronounced—for better or for worse—if the recommended dosage is not followed.

What are the actual effects of borage oil on the body?

Let's get down to business. Borage oil primarily acts on the’hormonal balance, which explains its popularity among women during menopause or experiencing premenstrual syndrome. It also helps reduce the’chronic inflammation, a mechanism that indirectly promotes weight gain over the long term.

• Reduction in joint pain related to inflammation
• Improved skin and nail health
• Support for Female Hormonal Balance
• Soothing effect on premenstrual syndrome symptoms

A chronic inflammation If not managed properly, it can completely throw your metabolism out of whack. Less inflammation often means your body burns fat more efficiently. That’s why some of my clients notice a slimmer figure after several weeks of treatment—without changing their diet!

👍 According to data compiled by ANSES on supplements containing essential fatty acids, no direct link has been established between the consumption of borage oil and significant weight gain.

How to Choose the Right Borage Oil Treatment?

The right dosage makes all the difference in the results you get. Most brands, such as Nutripure and Vit’all+, offer capsules with a daily dosage ranging from 500 to 1,000 mg. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and never exceed the recommended dose without consulting a doctor.

Criteria for a High-Quality Dietary Supplement

Check the AGL content before making a purchase. A good borage oil It typically contains between 20 and 24% of gamma-linolenic acid. It is this concentration that ensures true effectiveness, not just the price listed on the label.

Be careful with pyrrolizidine alkaloids

Here's something that too few sellers mention, and it really bugs me. Some raw borage oils contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids, substances that may be toxic to the liver. Always choose a brand that guarantees these substances are removed during the refining process, without exception.

Are there any side effects I should be aware of before starting a treatment?

Side effects of borage oil? They’re rare and generally mild—so rest assured. The most common ones are mild headaches or temporary digestive issues at the start of treatment.

Consult a doctor if you are taking blood thinners. Borage oil may interact with these medications because of its effect on blood viscosity. Also, avoid self-medication if you are pregnant or breastfeeding—this is a non-negotiable rule.

• Mild headaches at the start of treatment
• Temporary digestive problems
• Possible interaction with anticoagulants
• Not recommended during pregnancy and while breastfeeding

✅ According to a survey conducted by 60 Millions de Consommateurs on dietary supplements, fewer than 3% of borage oil users reported a notable adverse effect.

How can you incorporate borage oil into a weight-loss routine?

Now that we’ve sorted out the myths from reality, let’s move on to practical steps. I advise my clients to combine their treatment with regular physical activity, such as kickboxing or strength training at home. Borage oil alone will never work miracles—it’s a complement, not a replacement!

Take your capsules with meals, never on an empty stomach. This greatly reduces the bloating and digestive problems mentioned above. Spread out your intake over at least 3 months to feel a real effect on the’hormonal balance and joint pain.

To put it simply: the’Borage oil and weight gain have no proven causal relationship. Choose a dietary supplement with the right dosage and no pyrrolizidine alkaloids, take it with meals, and combine it with regular exercise. Start your regimen now—your body will thank you!