Diet pills are often chastised, and with good reason. Since diet pills sold over the counter are considered nutritional supplements, they don't need approval by the Food and Drug Administration before they can be sold. As a result, you are not able to verify if they are healthy or even safe. With the negative press that may surround them, diet pills might seem like the enemy; but the truth is, certain diet pills can become powerful allies if used properly.
Improved Weight Loss
Losing weight without changing your diet and exercise habits is basically impossible. However, certain diet pills can help speed up or facilitate the process, making it less burdensome. According to MayoClinic.com, conjugated linoleic acid, or CLA, might be an effective fat burner, while chromium seems to help with appetite suppression. The pills aren't magical and won't work if you don't put in the work by eating healthier and exercising. Still, when trying to lose weight, every bit helps.
They Keep You In Check
If you tend to overeat and break away from your well-intentioned diet plans, some diet pills can help. Orlistat is a fat-blocker drug sold under two brand names: Alli and Xenical. Alli is sold over the counter, without a prescription, while the stronger Xenical needs a doctor's approval. Both pills act as fat-blockers. This means that they will prevent your body from absorbing part of the fat you consume. If you consume too much fat, you'll experience side effects that can include diarrhea, gas with oily discharge and uncontrollable bowel movements. According to msnbc.com, these side effects are bothersome enough to force people to stay honest. Dieters will not eat more than the recommended amount of fat, because they don't want to experience the negative side effects.
Positive Side Effects
While the bad side effects of diet pills are highly publicized, you might not be aware of the positive effects. According to a June 2004 article published in "The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition," CLA not only helps reduce body fat, but it can also help improve muscle mass. Other weight loss pills, such as green tea pills, contain a small amount of caffeine or other stimulants, which can provide a boost of energy and increase your metabolism.
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