Among the various tips and tricks for speedy weight loss are diet pills, a timeless tool for dieters. Despite the potential benefits to using diet pills, health conscious people wonder about the risks. It's important to know the whole story -- the history, efficacy and side effects linked to the product -- before determining if taking diet pills is a sensible method to complement your weight loss plan.
Uses
Most diet pills are formulated for obese adults, although dieters of all ages and sizes often use them, simply because they're accessible on pharmacy shelves. Pills that promote significant weight loss are likely unsafe, ineffective, or both, as healthy weight loss is a slow and steady process -- requiring diligence and determination. To lose weight, you must create a calorie deficit: in short, you must burn more calories than your body needs on regular basis. While diet pills may help curb your appetite or speed calorie burning, making changes in your diet and practicing an exercise regimen are still essentials.
Herbal Diet Pills
Some dieters assume that because herbal diet pills are plant based, they are healthy. This is a dangerous supposition, however. Herbal stimulants, such as green tea, contain caffeine. When consumed in excess, these pills can cause serious heart and health complications. In addition, previously popular herbal diet pills containing ephedra, or ma huang, a naturally occurring herb, were linked to health complications and even death. While ephedra is now banned by the Food and Drug Administration, similar herbal products, such as bitter orange, are still widely available. Before using herbal diet pills, talk to your doctor about the potential dangers.
Prescription Diet Pills
Unlike over-the-counter diet pills, prescription diet pills are regulated by the FDA for safety and effectiveness, although health risks may still exist. These pills are prescribed by a doctor, and are intended for those who have a significant amount of weight to lose or have weight related health complications. Used in conjunction with a reduced calorie diet and exercise program, prescription weight loss pills may be a safe option for some.
Considerations
People who have a body mass index, or BMI, exceeding 30 are potential candidates for prescription diet pills. Hosts of magic bullets for weight loss exist, but a doctor can help you sort through the hype and find the appropriate tools to reach your goals.
Member Comments