The Alli health diet is a program that involves combining an over-the-counter weight loss pill with lifestyle changes. Alli gets a lot of press because in 2007, it became the first over-the-counter diet pill approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as safe for adults. It's important to keep in mind that Alli isn't a magic pill or an easy road to a slimmer you. Alli requires stringent attention to diet and exercise. Some people tolerate Alli well, while others suffer uncomfortable side-effects.
Program Basics
The Alli health plan isn't much different than other diet programs endorsed by he U.S. government, like its MyPyramid plan, which focuses on eating mostly fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins. In order to have success with the pill, you must combine it with a low-fat, calorie-restricted eating plan. With Alli, you shouldn't get more than 30 percent of your daily calories from fat, according Drugs.com. The plan also includes regular exercise to help create the calorie deficit required to lose weight.
How It Works
Alli is based on the old adage that weight loss is a result of "calories in, calories out." Restricting your calories and increasing your exercise create a calorie deficit that leads to weight loss. Alli supports calorie restriction by blocking fat absorption in your intestines. Alli doesn't block all the fat you eat, but it does decrease the amount of calories you absorb from the foods you eat. The pill, combined with your hard work, yields weight loss.
Benefits
Drugs.com reports that people who use Alli and follow the manufacturer's diet and lifestyle recommendations can lose 50 percent more weight than those who diet without Alli. The medication and eating plan can also serve as a learning tool that helps you identify healthy eating strategies that yield weight loss. You can purchase the medication and the health plan without a doctor's prescription, making it readily available whenever you're ready to use it.
Risks
Alli has been linked to serious liver damage. The FDA calls these instances of liver damage "rare" and their investigation found no conclusive link between Alli and liver problems. It recommends regular visits to your health care provider if you're concerned about your liver health. The Alli plan isn't for you if you're under 18 because the FDA hasn't tested Alli's effects on developing bodies. Alli can also block the absorption of certain drugs, vitamins and minerals, like insulin and potassium.,so talk to your doctor before you start the program if you're taking prescription medications or supplements.
Side Effects
Unfortunately, Alli has a long list of side effects. If you eat too much fat, you'll notice increased bowel movements and oily stools. Some people who eat too much fat during their meals lose bowel control or experience fecal matter leaking from their anus. Even those who follow the dietary fat recommendations can experience flu-like symptoms, muscle pain, dizziness, anxiety and depression, reports Drugs.com.
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