Because obesity in the U.S. has risen so dramatically in the past 20 years, diet plans and pills are commonly found on the news and online. Dieting can be difficult, so many people in the U.S. turn to aids such as appetite suppressants to help lose weight. Appetite suppressants can help you feel full, discouraging further food consumption. Several types of appetite suppressants are available, but all are meant to be used in conjunction with your doctor's advice for a weight loss plan.
Fiber Supplements
In addition to helping move food through your intestines, fiber can also help reduce your appetite. When mixed with water, fiber will create a gelatinous mass in your stomach, effectively creating a full sensation. In an October 2007 study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, cereal high in fiber induced satiety and reduced post-meal blood sugar better than low fiber cereal and white bread. If you are on the go, and cannot make time to eat a meal, fiber capsules are available at health food stores. These contain small amounts of fiber that are taken with water to, potentially, have the same effect as a high fiber meal.
Pharmaceuticals
Appetite suppressants also come in pharmaceutical form that you can only obtain by prescription from your doctor. These will act on specific chemicals or hormones in your body in an effort to create satiety or promote increased activity. Phentermine is one example of a medication that can stimulate your body, creating alertness. It works by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels, two brain chemicals, or neurotransmitters, that are associated with satisfaction, focus, drive and physical activity. Like other medications, Phentermine has potential side effects; it can cause insomnia, headache, dry mouth, constipation and menstrual irregularites. Talk to your doctor about medication to aid in your weight-loss goals.
Herbal Supplements
Certain herbs can also have an effect on your appetite, although results and safety are not guaranteed. Herbs work similarly to pharmaceuticals in that they can affect chemicals or hormones in your body. For example, Hoodia gordonii is a succulent plant that contains substances that induce the production of cholecystokinin, a chemical that signals to your gut wall that you are full. Herbal supplements are often not approved by the Food and Drug Administration. They might have side effects, so use caution and talk to your physician before trying any.
Over-The-Counter Pills
You can purchase weight loss pills that contain appetite suppressants at a drugstore. Over-the-counter appetite suppressants will also target substances that can "trick" your body into thinking you are full. The pills may also contain a combination of herbs that suppress appetite as well as stimulate activity or help inhibit the accumulation of fat in your body. As with pharmaceuticals or herbs, talk to your doctor before trying any OTC medications or diet pills.
References
- Centers For Disease Control and Prevention: U.S. Obesity Trends
- American Journal of Clinical Nutrition: Insoluble Cereal Fiber Reduces Appetite and Short-term Food Intake and Glycemic Response to Food Consumed ...
- Monroe Street Medical Clinic: Appetite Suppressants
- PubMed: The Steroid Glycoside H.g.-12 from Hoodia Gordonii Activates the Human ...
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