Do Diet Supplements Really Help You Lose Weight?

Every person wants to be able to look in the mirror and feel happy about what they see. Weight gained with age, lifestyle changes, or genetic dispositions can greatly alter self-esteem. If you’ve had problems keeping up with an exercise regimen, healthy dieting, or managing your nutrient balance, there may be answers for you in the form of dietary supplements.

Supplements

Dietary supplements are usually sold as prescription or over the counter drugs. Some of the most effective prescribed drugs include Xenical, Meridia, and Phentermine. Xenical acts as a roadblock for fat absorption into gastrointestinal portion of your digestive system. Unfortunately this means that in some cases the fat that isn’t absorbed will be released in the form of frequent bowel movements, gas, or oily discharge. These uncomfortable side effects may be side-stepped for those who elect to eat a diet that is for the most part, low in fat. Many patients have seen positive effects with Xenical, however, those who choose to take this supplement should be prepared to change to a low-fat diet for best results.

Meridia is another prescription drug, which helps a person feel full for longer. Meridia acts on the brain, preventing norepinephrine and seratonin (chemicals that prevent a feeling of hunger until they are reabsorbed in the brain) from being reabsorbed until later than usual. This effectively prolongs a feeling of fullness, which inhibits the urge to overeat. Among other side effects, Meridia may cause dizziness, nervousness, or constipation. This supplement works best for obese people who have consistent feelings of hunger. 

Phentermine is another dietary supplement, much like Mericia, that can be prescribed by a doctor to inhibit hunger. Unlike Meridia, this supplement works by simulating an adrenal response similar to what is known as “fight or flight.” By initiating a stress response in the brain, the body essentially prioritizes its activities, which keeps hunger on the sidelines. Additionally those taking Phentermine will feel an increase in their metabolism, which will in essence burn their fat reserves first.

Although drugs prescribed by physicians have been widely more successful at treating various forms of obesity, over the counter prescriptions have seen an increase in popularity. Alli, for example, is a widely utilized over the counter drug that has the same base as Xenical (orlistat) and acts on the gastrointestinal tract in the same manner. Although Alli may be helpful for weight loss, it usually only helps you shed a few pounds and there is some dispute over whether it may cause liver damage.

Ephedrine is another over the counter supplement that suppresses the appetite. Those who choose to buy ephedrine will experience weight loss via a loss of fat. Ephedra works on the central nervous system by increasing the activity of noradrenaline, a similar response to the use of Meridia.

More often than not, a diet of whole foods paired with comfortable exercise is the best and most long lasting remedy to obesity, however, in some cases dietary supplementation is helpful. Before making any changes to your diet or supplementation you should always consult your physician.

Guest post  by Carol Montrose

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3 comments:

  1. Anonymous9:37 AM

    people who only eat less, and people who exercise more but eat the same amount of food as they always used to, lose the almost the same amount of weight.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Donna9:39 AM

    A combination of vitamins, minerals, herbs, amino acids or botanical plants may be included in some supplements. They may be available in the form of an extract or concentration of all these ingredients. For instance they can be available in the form of pills, capsules, gel, liquid, or powder.

    ReplyDelete
  3. l just eat in moderation and exercise please NO DIETS

    ReplyDelete

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