Sedentary lifestyles and unhealthy dietary habits have led to what is an epidemic of obesity in America, with nearly two-thirds of all adults being overweight or obese. About 15% of U.S. adults have used some type of weight control product (spending more than $2 billion annually) to burn fat, curb their appetite, reduce macronutrient absorption, or improve their metabolism.
This growing dependency on weight loss supplements has natural product manufacturers focusing on creating new and innovative products and strategies to expand their portfolios, sales, and share of this rapidly expanding segment. These products take various forms, such as pills, powders, capsules, and liquids, and most contain multiple ingredients, including stimulants, dietary fibers, minerals, and botanicals.
There is no miracle weight loss product – a healthy diet, restricting caloric intake, and engaging in physical exercise are the basis for achieving long-term weight loss and a physically fit lifestyle. But making diet and lifestyle changes are challenging, and some of us require a little help to regain control and ensure adherence to our plan. And so, we turn to weight loss supplements.
While some of these supplements can be effective, finding one that’s both effective and safe may not be so easy. In this article, we compare two dietary supplements containing multiple compounds designed to address weight loss through different pathways. One from the UK, PhenQ of Wolfson Brands, and the other manufactured in the U.S. SKALD of Beldt Labs. Both contain scientifically validated GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) ingredients, made in federally registered, GMP-compliant facilities, but which formula is more comprehensive, and which is most likely to help you achieve your weight-loss and fitness goals?
We answer that question, plus drill down on the ingredients and what the science says in this comparison of SKALD vs. PhenQ. We’ll also compare dosages, go-to-market strategies, the purported benefits of each product, price value relationships, and convenience in accessing the products.
SKALD vs. PhenQ: The Products
First, let’s learn about the products and the company’s bringing them to market.
SKALD Oxydynamic Fat Scorcher, from Beldt Labs
As its name implies, SKALD is a thermogenic dietary supplement in capsule form designed to aid in weight loss. Thermogenic means producing heat, which SKALD does, increasing your metabolism and leading to fat burn. The product is positioned as the first trademarked thermogenic with respiratory support. Its unique, proprietary formula targets weight loss through several pathways by suppressing your appetite, increasing your metabolic rate, improving your mood, and supporting your respiratory system. The company’s tagline for SKALD is, “Breath better. Burn Faster.”
SKALD is comprised of one 356 mg proprietary blend containing Caffeine, N-Acetyl-Tyrosine, Green Tea Extract, and five other science-backed compounds. We know the blend includes 110 mg of Caffeine; however, we cannot determine the dosage of the other components due to the nature of proprietary blends.
Beldt Labs of Sherman Oaks, California, manufactures SKALD. The company focuses on developing cutting-edge supplements for fitness enthusiasts, CrossFit athletes, and MMA fighters in its FDA-registered, GMP-compliant facility. Beldt partners with GNC making SKALD available in its stores – the only Beldt item in distribution at GNC. Other products marketed on the company’s website include:
- The Performance Series – multivitamin, Nitric Oxide, cognition, thermogenic, BCAA, a Ketogenic Diet support.
- The Bedrock Series – includes Stave, a second diet aid focusing on appetite suppression, probiotics, CLA, flaxseed, collagen, turmeric, and vitamin D3.
- Beldt Lab Stacks – each feature SKALD as a component, a stack for weight loss, one to support a Ketogenic approach, and a Happy Stack.
How to Take SKALD
Although the serving size indicated on the Supplement Facts panel is one capsule, the company suggests the recommended dosage is two capsules daily. Each bottle of SKALD contains sixty capsules, a thirty-day supply. The capsules are easy to swallow with a few sips of water.
As with any dietary product that contains stimulants, one should carefully assess their tolerance. Beldt suggests you begin by taking one capsule on an empty stomach 15-30 minutes before breakfast. An additional capsule may be taken 5-6 hours later if well tolerated. Another practical approach with stimulants is to cycle off the product for at least two weeks after six weeks of continuous use to avoid building tolerance and requiring larger dosages for effect.
PhenQ, from Wolfson Brands
PhenQ is a natural weight loss dietary supplement in tablet form. Like SKALD, it targets multiple pathways to help control appetite, it burns excess fat, and provides natural energy. However, unlike SKALD’s proprietary formula, the PhenQ Supplement Facts is transparent, listing each ingredient and dosage distinctly. There are three B Vitamins, three minerals, and the hero ingredient, the patented α-Lacy’s Reset, a blend of ALA (Alpha-lipoic acid) and L-Cysteine. Additional ingredients include Caffeine, Capsimax (a patented ingredient from OmniActive Health Technologies), Chromium Picolinate, Nopal, L-Carnitine, and Piperine.
As mentioned in our opening, Wolfson Brands is headquartered in the United Kingdom. Its products are manufactured in federally registered, GMP-compliant facilities in the U.S. and UK. Wolfson’s collection of brands is only available online on their site. In addition to PhenQ, Wolfson also markets what they refer to as “legal steroid alternatives” under the Crazy Bulk label, Crazy Nutrition, Battle-Ready Fuels, and an additional weight loss aid, Phen24.
How To Take PhenQ
Although the serving size of the Facts Panel is one tablet, Wolfson’s recommended dosage is one PhenQ pill with breakfast and one with lunch. Each bottle contains a thirty-day supply of sixty tablets. Due to its caffeine content, the company does not recommend taking the product after 3 pm. There is no mention of cycling the product in Wolfson’s marketing.
Why We Give SKALD the Slight Edge
To their credit, both brands are manufactured in FDA-registered, GMP-compliant facilities. Both products contain science-backed ingredients, proven effective in weight management, such as Caffeine found in both products and Green Tea and BioPerine, found in SKALD. PhenQ also contains a form of Piperine (not the same trademarked compound as found in SKALD), plus L-Carnitine, Chromium, and Capsaicin, all identified by the NCBI (National Center for Biotechnology Information) as effective ingredients in a weight loss supplement.
Each product uses at least one patented ingredient in its formulation, with PhenQ containing three such compounds. Serving sizes and recommended dosages are the same.
So, why do we give SKALD an edge?
- SKALD costs less per day, $1.63, versus PhenQ, $2.33.
- SKALD is available in more places, including Amazon.com, Walmart, and GNC stores. Products sold in GNC, and other specialty retailers, are subjected to more rigorous testing, insurance requirements, and quality assurances.
- The SKALD money-back guarantee has fewer restrictions than PhenQ’s policy.
- PhenQ is severely underdosed in many of its compounds (even at two tablets per day) versus the amounts used in clinical trials.
- SKALD goes to great lengths to cite scientific findings on each ingredient. We didn’t just take their word – we researched each trial quoted and found supporting documentation at the National Institute for Health.
Finally, two other factors influence our recommendation. First, we acknowledge a bit of “guilt by association” as Wolfson markets its “legal steroid alternatives.” Be it overly aggressive marketing, or edgier ingredients, both are a bit troubling. Second, Beldt appeals to “fitness” enthusiasts, including MMA professionals, drug tested by the USADA, and CrossFit participants, typically very particular about what they put in their bodies. So, although both products may be effective in aiding your body composition goals, SKALD may be the safer option.
Product Comparison Chart
| SKALD | PhenQ | |
| Federally Registered Facility | Yes | Yes |
| GMP-Compliant | Yes | Yes |
| Third-Party Tested | No | No |
| Trademarked Ingredients | Yes | Yes |
| # of Ingredients | 8 | 7 |
| Clinically Validated Ingredients | Yes | Yes – but at higher dosages |
| Cost per Day | $1.63 | $2.33 |
| Sourcing | Online and in GNC | Online only |
The Formulations
SKALD Ingredients
SKALD uses a proprietary blend of 356 mg per serving (one capsule). As such, we cannot determine the precise dosage per ingredient; however, the caffeine is listed as 110 mg per capsule. It’s required that ingredients in a blend are listed in descending order based on content.
In the Q&A section of the site, each ingredient explains its function and cites references to support the purported benefits. As mentioned, we reviewed these findings and included information relative to the ingredient’s benefits per an NCBI review of dietary supplement ingredients.
Caffeine Anhydrous (110 mg) – Per the NCBI, caffeine stimulates the central nervous system, increases thermogenesis, and fat oxidation. Research findings: Possible modest effect on body weight or decreased weight gain over time. Beldt contends Caffeine has a synergistic effect when combined with Juniper Berry Extract.
N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine – An amino acid, naturally produced in the body, commonly used in nootropic products for mood, memory, and to reduce stress. Dieting can be challenging, so Tyrosine may help you avoid emotional eating.
Catechin – Per the NCBI, Green Tea Extract increases energy expenditure and fat oxidation, reduces lipogenesis and fat absorption. In SKALD, Catechins increase metabolism, help break down body fat, and suppress appetite.
Juniper Berry Extract (Juniperus Communis) – Wolfson marketing positions this compound as a natural and safe extract designed to replicate the effects of DMHA – boosting metabolism, increasing lipolysis, and inhibiting the accumulation of body fat.
White Willow Bark – A natural extract sometimes referred to as nature’s aspirin. Used to combat migraines, back, joint, and muscle pain. In SKALD, the willow bark interacts with other compounds to create a thermogenic effect, increasing blood flow to the muscles and body temperature.
Mullein (Verbascum Thapsus) – A medicinal plant used in herbal treatments for pulmonary problems, asthma, and spasmodic coughs. Published research indicates this extract could help support healthy lung function.
Elecampane (Inula helenium) – Like Mullein, Elecampane is a natural herb used to relieve the symptoms of lung-related illness. It may help you breathe easier during cardio exercise.
Combined, Mullein and Elecampane are responsible for the “Breath Better” portion of the product slogan.
BioPerine is a patented/trademarked black pepper extract, Piperine. In SKALD, the BioPerine enhances the bioavailability and absorption of the other active compounds.
PhenQ Ingredients
A-Lacy’s Reset, 25 mg – This patented compound is the lead ingredient in PhenQ. It is a mixture of ALA (Alpha-Lipoic Acid), a fatty acid thought to enhance metabolism, improve energy expenditure, and suppress food intake, and L-Cystein. Clinical research indicates the amino acid L-Cystein may suppress the “hunger hormone” ghrelin and appetite. Unfortunately, both ALA and L-Cystein were clinically tested at significantly higher dosages than the 25 mg in PhenQ.
On its site, Wolfson’s marketing department quotes a clinical study that supports the compound’s ability to boost fat burning, reduce weight, and increase lean muscle mass.
Nopal, 20 mg – Nopal is a cactus species found in the Southwest United States and Mexico, commonly known as prickly pear. The fiber in nopal provides a feeling of satiety. In addition, it has been shown to help reduce fat accumulation by binding itself to dietary fat and removing it from the body through normal digestion.
Caffeine, 75 mg. As previously noted, caffeine is a stimulant affecting the central nervous system, increasing thermogenesis and fat oxidation. In research findings: Possible modest effect on body weight or decreased weight gain over time. The 75 milligrams in PhenQ is modest – less than a cup of coffee.
L-Carnitine Fumarate, 150 mg. Per the NCBI, Carnitine increases fatty acid oxidation to create energy in the mitochondria and may aid in the reduction of body weight. The recommended dosage of L-carnitine ranges from 500 mg to two grams per day.
Chromium Picolinate, 20 mcg. Chromium is another ingredient included in the NCBI report. It Increases lean muscle mass, promotes fat loss, and reduces food intake and cravings. Proven effective in clinical trials at a dosage of 1000 mcg daily.
Capsimax Powder, 50 mg. Another trademarked compound, Capsimax from OmniActive, is a concentrated extract of capsaicinoids from red chili peppers combined with caffeine anhydrous, niacin, and black pepper. Designed to increase the breakdown of stored fat, boost metabolism, promote thermogenic activity, and reduce fat at a clinical dosage of 100 mg. The NCBI finds trial results inconclusive.
Piperine 10 mg. The active ingredient in Skald’s BioPerine. Piperine is also a potent antioxidant that may protect against cell damage.
Not featured in the Wolfson marketing is InnoSlim, a third patented ingredient formulated to aid weight-loss efforts and reduce symptoms of metabolic syndrome. This trademarked compound is from NuLiv Science USA, Inc.
SKALD vs. PhenQ: Benefits of the Brands
Although the products feature different ingredients in their proprietary formulas, they both promise weight loss through multiple mechanisms, most notably:
- Increased metabolism
- Fat burning
- Appetite suppression
- More energy and endurance
- Mood support to eliminate emotional eating
In a bit of hyperbole, SKALD promises unparalleled endurance, unbeatable fat loss, and unimaginable results. More specifically, they promise to reshape your entire body by eliminating significant body fat. And, of course, they promise respiratory support, the only diet pill we know of that promises that you will breathe better.
PhenQ makes the same health and weight loss claims sans the respiratory benefit but adds increased muscle mass as a benefit of its a-Lacy’s Reset component.
Both brands emphasize the importance of a healthy diet and exercise to achieve your body composition goals. We concur and are unaware of any diet aid adding lean mass without exercise.
SKALD vs. PhenQ: Price/Value Comparison
SKALD Pricing
SKALD – Cost per Day $1.63
- One Time Purchase – $49.00
- Three bottles – $41.65 each
- Six bottles – $39.20 each
- Subscription – Save 10%
Our research found SKALD available for sale at Amazon, Walmart, and GNC. Each advertised the product at the $49.00 price point. Like PhenQ, SKALD offers a sixty-day money-back guarantee. We found SKALD’s return policy more straightforward than PhenQ’s restrictions.
PhenQ Pricing
PhenQ – Cost per Day $2.33
Each bottle contains a one-month supply based on two tablets daily. Wolfson offers free international shipping plus their sixty-day money-back guarantee available on the first two bottles purchased, plus any additional unopened bottles. You must notify the company within 67 days of arrival to qualify for a refund.
SKALD vs. PhenQ: Accessing the Products and Go-to-Market Strategies
The most significant differences between the two products are the respective go-to-market strategies. PhenQ is only available online on the company’s website. SKALD is available online at Beldt Labs as well as several other e-commerce retailers and in brick-and-mortar GNC stores.
Both companies offer quantity discounts and have a subscription service available, although, unlike other online presences, subscription does not seem to be a priority.
In addition to aggressive benefit claims on their sites, both Beldt and Wolfson rely heavily on customer testimonials as evidence of their product’s efficacy. Beldt also features a robust blog section with excellent content for the athlete.
SKALD vs. PhenQ: Potential Side Effects When Using Thermogenics
Although serious adverse events from thermogenic products are rare, users have been known to experience elevated blood pressure and heart rates, increased nervousness and anxiety, and digestive symptoms. As with any herbal supplement, interaction with prescription medications is possible. As always, we encourage you to consult with your medical professional before adding any new product to your supplement regimen.
In Conclusion: SKALD vs. PhenQ
Although the scientific evidence supporting the use of specific ingredients in dietary supplements is sound, there are no clinical trials of these finished products when multiple components are combined. The best way to lose weight and stay fit is to follow a healthy eating plan, reduce your caloric intake, and exercise regularly. For some individuals, a thermogenic product may help them adhere to their plan and achieve their ideal body. In our opinion, SKALD is one of the best products of its type we have reviewed.
Want to learn more about each option? If so, check our our full SKALD review here and our full PhenQ review here.
