Obesity is more than carrying a little extra weight--it can pose serious health risks, while getting in the way of an active lifestyle. When diet and exercise just aren't enough, a physician may prescribe phentermine to help. Phentermine is a stimulant medication indicated in the short-term treatment of obesity. Simply taking the pill, however, is not enough--the medication is part of a comprehensive weight-loss plan emphasizing a nutritious diet. Paying a little attention to some tips for dieting while using phentermine will go a long way toward lasting, healthy weight loss.
Phentermine and Appetite
Phentermine works by suppressing the appetite, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. When phentermine use begins under a doctor's guidance, the user will most likely notice a marked decrease in appetite. This does not mean that eating balanced meals should cease as the body and brain both need nutrients to stay healthy. Phentermine's appetite suppressing properties should be used as an opportunity to plan sensible meals and cut back on portion sizes.
Choosing Meals
Selecting nutritious meals is crucial while dieting on phentermine, and eating regularly throughout the day is key in ensuring that metabolism burns fat and calories. Since phentermine can reduce overall food cravings, this property should be used to the patient's advantage for eating nutritious meals such as salads, small portions of lean meat or beans for protein, and whole-grain bread for fiber and digestive health.
Snacking
Snacking is not a no-no while on any diet, and dieting using phentermine is no exception. The types of snacks eaten are the deciding factor in promoting weight loss. While using phentermine, treats such as candy and ice cream should be replaced with healthy, natural foods such as fruit. Strawberries are a sweet and nutritious snack, and frozen bananas make an excellent, healthy alternative to high-fat ice cream. "Finger foods" such as french fries and potato chips can be replaced by healthier choices such as baby carrots, trail mix, and raisins--all of which will satisfy the snack craving while sparing high levels of fat, cholesterol and sodium.
Calories
It is important that the phentermine user eats adequate amounts of food. MedlinePlus notes that the lowest recommended daily caloric intake for women is 1,200 calories, and 1,500 for men. While developing healthy weight loss-promoting eating habits using phentermine, the patient should count her calories to ensure she is meeting these medically-approved numbers. Without enough calories in the diet, a person won't have the energy for another key aspect of dieting while on phentermine--exercise.
Fluid Intake
Drinking plenty of water or fruit juice while using phentermine is essential. Sugary drinks such as colas should be replaced with a patient's favorite fruit juice--orange juice, cranberry juice or even water are excellent options for staying hydrated and healthy. Those who drink coffee and routinely take cream or sugar can use either an artificial sweetener or a touch of honey as well as skim milk to help keep those unhealthy levels of sugar down in your diet. Tea is an alternative to coffee; hot beverages such as chamomile or green tea have flavors many people find pleasant without any sweetener at all.
Ask the Expert
Questions specific to a person's diet should be posed to the prescribing physician or a dietitian. Medical professionals are well-qualified to give dietary advice during treatment with phentermine. Medical support while losing weight can help patients meet their goals to enjoy a healthier, more active lifestyle.
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