If you are attempting to drop excess pounds by using diet pills, you must also make some healthy lifestyle choices. A diet pill may jump-start your weight loss by reducing your appetite, burning fat or managing your cravings, but you still need to eat a well-balanced diet and exercise. These are good habits that you need to continue even after you stop taking the diet pills, so you don't regain the weight you lost. As the FDA does not test most diet pills, it's important to consult your doctor before taking them.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are low in fat and calories, making them good choices when you want to drop unwanted pounds. They also contain fiber, a nutrient that fills you up and keeps you feeling full. Additionally, fruits and vegetables are good sources of other nutrients, including vitamins A and C, which promote good health. Many diet pills reduce your appetite, so including the most nutrient-dense foods in your diet is important to ensure you get adequate nutrition.
Whole Grains
Whole grain foods are healthy sources of carbohydrates, which are essential for energy. Whole grains are also rich in fiber, making them an ideal addition to your diet pill routine. They are also low in fat and calories. Good whole grain choices include brown rice, oatmeal, as well as whole grain breads, pasta and cereals.
Protein
Protein also provides your body with energy and helps keep you feeling full. Healthy protein foods you should consume include lean meats, fish, soy products, legumes, nuts, seeds, eggs and low-fat dairy products like milk, cheese and yogurt. Dairy foods are also excellent sources of calcium, vital for healthy bones and teeth. However, consuming high-fat proteins can have adverse effects on your health. Additionally, consuming fatty foods while taking some diet pills can result in unpleasant side effects. Read the pill label carefully and discuss side effects with your doctor if you have concerns.
Healthy Fats
Consuming certain fats can help reduce your risk of disease. Monounsaturated fat, found in a variety of foods, including avocados, nuts and olive oil, may help improve blood cholesterol levels, which can decrease your risk of heart disease. Omega-3 fatty acids, which are polyunsaturated fats and found in fatty fish, may decrease your risk of coronary artery disease. While healthy fats are essential to your diet, it's still important to read the label of your diet pill, as consuming too much of any type of fat at one meal while taking certain diet pills can cause adverse effects.
References
- MSNBC: Diet Pills' Icky Side Effects Keep Users Honest
- MayoClinic.com: Over-the-Counter Weight-Loss Pills: Do They Work?
- Colorado State University Extension: Weight Loss Products and Programs
- Family Doctor: What it Takes to Lose Weight
- Daily News Central: Combining Healthy Eating, Exercise With Diet Pills Works Best
- Harvard School of Public Health: What Should I Eat?
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