Alli, an over-the-counter medication for weight loss, is taken in conjunction with a low-fat diet. Menus on the plan are flexible and allow you to eat whatever you want. Healthy, nutritious foods are encouraged on the Alli menus and high fat items are the only things that you need to avoid. Before beginning any diet plan, discuss the pros and cons with a health care professional.
The Medication
The main ingredient in Alli is orlistat. It is sold by prescription under the name Xenical, at a dose of 120mg. Alli is only available in the United States 60mg strength to those over the age of 18. According to Dr. Donald Hensrud, M.D. on MayoClinic.com, Alli helps you lose weight by reducing fat absorption by the intestines. It is meant to be used in conjunction with exercise and a low-fat diet plan.
The Plan
The focus of Alli is not on following specific menu plans, it is about changing your eating patterns long term. When planning your menu, the Alli website suggests three major changes to your diet: eat three meals and healthy snacks in between so you are never hungry; wait 15 minutes before eating additional food to allow your stomach a chance to feel full; and always have healthy, low-fat snacks available so you stay satisfied.
On the Menu
You do not need to follow specific diet plan menus to use Alli for weight loss, but the manufacturer does suggest sample menus on its website for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Among the meals listed are Herbed Chicken with Red Potatoes; Strawberries and Cream Waffles; Egg & Potato Hash with Canadian Bacon; and Banana-Nut Hot Cakes. After purchasing Alli -- which is available in most drugstores -- register on the website for My Alli Plan to access hundreds of recipes.
Support
If you need more support in planning your diet plan menus while on Alli, you can join My Alli Plan Gold. For a monthly fee, you will have access to online seminars and personalized help following the Alli plan. Included in My Alli Plan Gold are tools like "My Fridge Makeover," "Mobile Snack Finder" and the quarterly "My Alli Living" magazine.
Warning
Even though Alli is available over the counter, it is still a medication. The FDA has noted cases of severe liver problems in some people after taking its main ingredient, orlistat. Do not take Alli or begin any new diet plan without first discussing the risks with your doctor.
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