 | Glen Mathis has been the co-owner of Mathis Drug Store in Girard since 1983. For more information or to reach Glen, please call 620-724-4313. |
Health & Medicine
2011-02-01 14:24:00
New Year’s resolutions...are weight loss supplements safe and do they actually work?
Answer: Losing weight can dramatically improve your emotional and physical health, but it can be a slow process. So it’s no wonder American adults use diet supplements to boost weight loss, opting for a range of products that claim to decrease appetite, block fat absorption, or increase metabolism.
Currently, most weight loss experts do not recommend many products marketed as weight loss supplements because of a lack of evidence. Also, certain diet supplements, may cause heart problems and tend to increase heart rates higher than normal. Avoid products with excessive levels of caffeine, which can cause side effects, such as increased heart rate and blood pressure. Research has shown some concerning side effects.
However, there are some proven weight loss supplements available. Which weight loss supplements may be safe and helpful during a diet? Every living, breathing and functional human’s body is different. There is not one that is the same.
There are many clinical studies to learn more about the effectiveness and safety of weight loss supplements. What’s the best way for people to reap the benefits of these diet supplements? Can you take too much? Is it safe? We as patients all question the vitamins and supplements that we take.
If you do use weight loss supplements, be aware that the vast majority of products sold as diet supplements are not regulated by the FDA. To make sure that the product you are purchasing has undergone quality control testing, look for diet supplements that bear a United States Pharmacopeia (USP) seal.
Remember, of course, that you should always check with your doctor before taking any type of supplement. Even supplements can have side effects and may interfere with medications you take. And, when it comes to weight loss, there are no quick fixes. A healthy eating plan and regular physical exercise should be the foundation of any weight loss program.
