Doctors and nutritionists trumpet the benefits of diet and exercise for weight loss, but your weight loss might also be enhanced by including new habits and supplements. Those that help you control your appetite, boost your energy, speed healing and promote healthy digestion may be appropriate for you. However, consult your doctor before beginning a weight loss program.
Appetite
Hoodia is an African cactus, and as a supplement, is most often found in powder or pill form. Originally used by nomadic Bushman to stave off hunger during long hunting trips, Hoodia has received media attention for its use as an appetite suppressant. It should be noted that Hoodia is discouraged for people with diabetes, blood clotting issues, heart problem, or for those with eating disorders.
Energy
Thermogenics are a common weight loss supplement and come in a number of forms and brands, including RippedFuel, OxyElite, and Hydroxycut. While they're the most controversial of the weight loss supplements, due to their use of stimulants such as caffeine, they're also the best-selling, second only to multivitamins. Thermogenics increase energy and body heat to assist you in burning calories faster and over a sustained period of time. As with all supplements, consult your doctor before including a thermogenic in your weight loss routine. Thermogenics aren't recommended for women who are pregnant or may become pregnant, people with a history of heart problems, stroke, a sensitivity to caffeine, or a history of insomnia.
Recovery and Digestion
It's common advice to drink plenty of water while dieting. In terms of a serious weight loss regimen, there truly is nothing better than a regular intake of water before and after meals, and during and after workouts. Water has a number of benefits, but most notably can help flush out any buildup of lactic acid in your muscles, thus relieving pain, and help your intestines, stomach, and kidneys better process your food. Water also helps control appetite and improves muscle and skin tone, and general health. It's a must-have for any serious workout or diet plan.
Warnings
Without exception, always consult your physician before beginning a diet and exercise regimen, and before adding any new habits or supplements to your daily routine. For the most part, dietary supplements are not FDA-approved; you should therefore use them only as directed, under the care of a physician, and immediately discontinue them if you experience any adverse side-effects.
References
- Importance of Drinking Water From "The Snowbird Diet" by Donald S. Robertson, M.D., M.Sc. and Carol Robertson
- Drugs.com: Hoodia
- International Journal of Obesity: Thermogenic Ingredients and Weight Loss Regulation: R Hursel and MS Westerterp-Plantenga
- National Institutes of Health: Using Dietary Supplements Wisely
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