A healthy appetite is a way your body guides you toward meeting your daily nutrient and energy needs. Numerous factors can trigger an excessive appetite, however, including certain medications, premenstrual syndrome, stress and illnesses, such as bulimia, diabetes and thyroid disease. In these cases, controlling your appetite may guard against emotional discomfort, weight gain and obesity-related health problems. Gaining understanding regarding natural appetite supplements may help guide you toward making wise lifestyle decisions. Consult with your physician before taking any appetite suppressants.
Types
A wide variety of natural supplements claim to reduce your appetite. Common varieties, according to MayoClinic.com, include country mallow, or heart leaf; ephedra, which is not legal for use in dietary supplements in the United States; chromium; green tea extract; and hoodia. Some supplements contain multiple ingredients geared toward weight control. Caffeine may be added, for example, for boosted energy or water weight loss.
Effectiveness
Because natural supplements are not upheld to the same rigorous testing or standards for safety and effectiveness as drugs in the United States, their effectiveness often remains unknown. While ephedra is "possibly effective," according to MayoClinic.com, the effectiveness of country mallow, hoodia, chromium and green tea extract lack sufficient evidence. In a small study published in "Clinical Nutrition" in June 2009 involving 27 participants, consuming a combination of green tea and capsaicin, which is a substance in cayenne peppers, was positively linked with reduced hunger and increased fullness.
Potential Risks
Many of the risks of natural supplements, whether for appetite control or other functions, remain unknown. The Food and Drug Administration banned ephedra in 2004 after serious reported side effects and complications, including anxiety, irregular heart rhythms, stroke, heart attack and death. The FDA also banned country mallow. Green tea extract is considered "possibly safe," according to MayoClinic.com. Chromium is considered "likely safe." Information regarding the safety of hoodia is lacking. Natural supplements can interact with medications. If they fail to produce your desired results, you run the risk of wasted money.
Suggestions
To avoid risks and side effects associated with natural appetite suppressants, seek guidance from your doctor prior to use. For natural, safe appetite control, Dr. Nicholas Perricone, a dermatologist and author of "The Perricone Weight Loss Diet," recommends drinking water throughout each day. Eating fiber-rich foods, such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables, exercising regularly and managing stress if you are an emotional eater, may also help.
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