The alli diet pill is the over-the-counter version of the weight-loss drug orlistat. The alli website reports that persons taking alli lose 50 percent more weight than dieting alone, if taken in conjunction with a reduced-calorie, low-fat diet. However, according to MayoClinic.com, weight loss has averaged 5 to 7 lbs. more over one year when compared to placebo for the prescription dosage. If you are interested in taking alli, weigh the benefits against the side effects and cost.
Drug Action
Alli blocks the action of the enzyme that breaks down fat, called lipase. This enzyme is produced in the pancreas and released into the small intestine. Normally the fats you eat are in triglyceride form and require partial breakdown into fatty acids and 2-monoacylglycerol for absorption. If the fats are not broken into these smaller pieces, they resist absorption and pass through the gastrointestinal tract. Alli blocks approximately 25 percent of the fat in a meal. This reduces the amount of calories the body can use.
Side Effects
Because some of the fat you consume passes through your gastrointestinal tract undigested, it may cause side effects that include urgent bowel movements, diarrhea and gas with oily discharge. To minimize these side effects, consume no more than 15 g of fat per meal. According to a review article in the "Journal of Obesity" in December 2010, the Food and Drug Administration received 32 reports of serious liver injury from 1999 to 2008. This led to an investigation and label revision to include a warning of possible severe liver injury. Let your doctor know if you experience any signs of liver problems while taking alli, including jaundice, brown urine or fatigue.
The Math
The alli website recommends you eat a well-balanced, reduced-calorie and low-fat diet. Considering that fat contains nine calories per gram, the recommended fat calories per meal is 135 calories. Alli blocks 25 percent of those calories, translating to about 34 calories. Thus, you will "save" approximately 100 calories per day from your three meals -- or 700 calories per week and approximately 3000 calories per month. One pound of fat is equal to 3500 calories. Thus, taking alli for one month will help you lose less than 1 lb. in one month.
Other Considerations
Fat-soluble vitamins need fat for absorption in the body. If fat is blocked, so are the vitamins A, D, E and K and beta-carotene. A daily multivitamin will help replenish these vitamins if taken two hours before or two hours after alli. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you are considering alli for weight loss, making sure to inform him if you are taking any medications or supplements.
Take into consideration that alli does not distinguish between the types of fats that it is blocking. The 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends emphasizing intake of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, including the omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, due to their many health benefits.
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