Research by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that an estimated one-third of adults in the United States are obese. Obesity is determined by a body mass index (BMI) score of greater than 30. The best way to address obesity is to lose weight. Weight loss is a process that takes substantial time and effort, and in some cases leads patients to consider weight-loss surgery as a solution. Other weight loss methods that can provide the same results, without the risks associated with surgery.
Diet
Diet is an integral part of any weight-loss plan. A healthy diet revolves around controlling calorie intake and portion sizes, while still providing all the necessary vitamins and minerals your body needs to function correctly. To do this, your diet should include each of the major food groups as laid out by the United States Department of Agriculture's "My Pyramid" program. These groups include fruits and vegetables, low-fat dairy products, lean proteins and whole grains.
Exercise
Exercise is an important part of any weight-loss plan. Physical activity guidelines set by the American Heart Association and the American College of Sports Medicine recommend that all adults between the ages of 18 and 65 get at least 30 minutes of exercise, five days a week. Depending on your health and physical fitness levels, this number may need to be augmented to accelerate weight loss or prevent injury.
Appetite Suppressants
Appetite suppressants are another alternative to weight loss surgery. Appetite suppressants, also known as anorectics, work by reducing your appetite. The smaller your appetite, the less likely you will be to overeat, and the longer you will feel full between meals. This allows you to consume fewer calories, leading to weight loss. Appetite suppressants come in both over-the-counter versions--such as hoodia and caffeine--and prescription drugs, such as phendimetrazine and other amphetamine-like medications.
Prescription Intervention
When other methods have not been successful, your doctor may prescribe a medication to accelerate your weight loss efforts. The most common prescriptions for weight loss include orlistat (Xenical) and sibutramine (Meridia). Orlistat works by preventing the body from absorbing as much fat from the foods you eat. This, in turn, reduces the number of calories your body gets. Sibutramine works by interacting with the hunger-control portion of your brain. When taking sibutramine, the medication creates the feeling that your body is fuller faster. This helps prevent overeating. Weight-loss drugs are meant to augment a healthy diet and exercise routine, not replace them.
Member Comments