Numerous weight loss supplements promise fast weight loss results. Though diet pills may seem appealing, they pose numerous risks. Diet pills have been linked with numerous side effects and often lack proof of safety and effectiveness, according to the Mayo Clinic. To ensure your safety and wellness, discuss weight loss supplements with your doctor before using them. Keep in mind that a healthy diet and regular exercise are safe, proven methods of long-term, successful weight management.
Health Risks
Many weight loss supplements pose health risks. According to a Consumer Affairs report from Feb., 2006, weight loss supplements containing conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) may cause excessive fat accumulation in the liver and increased risk for insulin resistance and Type 2 diabetes. Supplements containing stimulants, such as ephedra, ginseng, caffeine and bitter orange, may cause increased heart beat, heart palpitations and sleep problems. Supplements containing ephedra, though banned by the Food and Drug Administration, have been associated with heart attack, stroke and death. Supplements similar to ephedra have since emerged, according to the Weight-control Information Network, and may also pose life-threatening risks. When rapid weight loss does occur, your risk for reduced metabolism, later weight gain, poor energy and nutrient deficiencies increase.
Emotional Risks
Weight loss supplements can also hinder your emotional well-being. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, supplements containing clenbuterol, a steroid substance used to increase muscle mass in livestock, are being used illicitly for rapid body fat loss and increased lean tissue. In addition to physical effects, such as heart problems, clenbuterol, also called "clen," may cause nervousness, paranoia and anxiety. In severe cases, weight loss supplements are linked with severe depressive symptoms. If you have history of psychological illness, weight loss pills may trigger or worsen your symptoms. Other stimulant-containing weight loss supplements, such as "fat burners," are linked with similar effects.
Weight loss pills may also cause dependency and withdrawal once you stop taking them. Once your body adapts to the effects of supplements, you may be tempted to increase your dosage. This increases your risk for developing physical and emotional effects and may indicate dependency. Use of diet pills may also encourage the belief that such aids are necessary for weight loss, when in fact, a healthy diet and exercise are considered optimum.
Unknown Risks
Many potential risks of weight loss supplements remain unknown. Dietary supplements are not upheld to the same safety and effectiveness standards as prescription medications, according to the Mayo Clinic. For this reason, you may not realize the risks you are facing by taking the supplements until they occur. The safety of weight loss supplements containing bitter orange, chitosan, CLA, country mallow, green tea extract and hoodia remains in question.
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