As a part of a weight loss program, a company may recommend you take an over-the-counter supplement to enhance results. You may be asked to purchase the company's brand supplement and take the pills while following a diet and exercise plan. Weight loss supplements do not offer a quick fix and many bring on unwanted side effects. Speak to your doctor before using a program that includes weight loss supplements.
FDA Approval
The only FDA approved weight loss supplement sold over-the-counter is Alli. Alli contains approximately half of the amount of orlistat as the prescription version. Orlistat blocks a small amount of fat from being absorbed into the intestines. Once you purchase Alli, you can access their online program and receive diet and exercise recommendations. You must follow a low-fat diet on the program or you increase your risk of unwanted side effects such as rectal discharge, gas, bloating and abdominal discomfort.
Types
Green tea and conjugated linoleic acid may have a small effect on weight loss. According to a 1999 study printed in the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition," the polyphenols from green tea attributed to an increase in energy and rate of fat oxidation. In a 2000 edition of the "Journal of Nutrition," a study conducted on mice found that conjugated linoleic acid reduced body fat content. Herbalife and SlimQuick are examples of weight loss programs that use green tea products as part of their diet plans. Maxi Muscle and "The Six Pack Diet Plan" are plans that both recommend conjugated linoleic acid to achieve weight loss. Additional ingredients used in supplements and programs that have insufficient evidence to support weight loss claims include hoodia, chromium, ginseng, glucomannan, guar gum, chitosan, hydroxycitric acid and l-carnitine.
Warning
Avoid weight loss programs that recommend supplements containing ephedra, country mallow and bitter orange. According to the Mayo Clinic, these supplements are considered unsafe, and ephedra and country mallow have been banned by the FDA. Guar gum and chitosan supplements should also not be used, according to the American Academy of the Family Physician, since they have been proven to be ineffective for weight loss. Conjugated linoleic acid puts you at an increased risk of heart disease while green tea can cause difficulty sleeping and mood changes. You should avoid weight loss pills if you suffer from a medical condition or are pregnant or nursing.
Considerations
There is insufficient evidence to support whether or not most supplements are effective. Additionally, many of the ingredients found in weight loss supplements are found naturally in food sources. For instance, conjugated linoleic acid is found in meat and diary products. If you develop any side effects while taking a supplement, discontinue use and contact your doctor.
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