Weight loss takes hard work and time. These days there are hundreds of products on the market that claim to promote weight loss without you having to diet or exercise. Some, like weight loss patches, even claim they can lead to rapid weight loss, such as losing 30 lbs. in 30 days. However, before using weight loss patches, it is best to understand how weight loss occurs and how the patches claim to work. Then, talk with a health care provider to make sure whichever patch you choose, it is a safe one to use.
Identification
Companies that produce the patches claim that they contain herbal substances, that either curb hunger, speed metabolism, alter hormone levels, make the body burn more fat or a combination of these. Since the patch is worn, it eliminates the need to take pills and manufacturers claim that the substances used are absorbed into the bloodstream better then when they are taken in pill form.
Warnings
As with many of the weight loss products on the market, the main concern with weight loss patches is that they are not effective. According to the U.S. Federal Trade Commission, claims that wearing a weight loss patch leads to significant weight loss are false. There is no scientific evidence that the substances used in weight loss patches have any effect on the body. In addition, it is unsafe to lose too much weight too fast and these products encourage fast weight loss. Healthy weight loss means losing about 1 to 2 lbs. per week, unless under a doctor's supervision.
Solution
Most weight loss products such as pills and patches are not meant to be used long term. Given this, MayoClinic.com recommends not relying on them as a weight loss option. Limited studies show that users of weight loss patches may initially lose a small amount of weight. However, there are no studies showing that the weight loss is maintained long term. In some cases, a weight loss patch may help a patient get started, but then lifestyle changes such as controlling caloric intake, watching portion sizes and getting regular exercise are the best bet.
Considerations
The bottom line is that to reap the benefits of weight loss, it must be maintained long term. This means addressing the behavioral issues that lead to overeating. Emotions such as stress, boredom, loneliness, anxiety and others, can lead to eating too much food or making unhealthy choices. If just wearing a weight loss patch without trying to change underlying behaviors, long term weight loss will not be achieved. If while wearing a patch, healthy lifestyle habits are developed, then weight loss will be maintained even after the patch is no longer being used. In addition, most weight loss patches have not been fully tested, so claims that they are all natural or safe may not be correct, reports the University of Pittsburgh School of the Health Sciences.
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