Do Weight Supplements Really Work?

Introduction

In this era when we are bombarded by the media with images of ultra-slim men and women, most people equate looking good with being slim and there is much hype about novel ways to lose weight. Weight supplements seem to be a popular way to lose weight, but there is much uneasiness and hesitation about them among those who have never tried such weight supplements before – stories of how these supplements are addictive and have dangerous side-effects are many, and have also been proven to be true. To most, the truth in the claim that weight loss can be achieved so easily is doubtful.

History

To put it straight at the outset, weight supplements do work up to a certain extent and they will help you lose weight, but on certain conditions. Their efficacy depends on a number of factors – most brands will also recommend that you make changes to your lifestyle, such as reduce the intake of excessive calories – calories that your body does not use are converted to fat. They will also tell you that weight supplements work best if you exercise regularly. Studies have shown that with exercise, you will shed in a few days the pounds that you would need a month to shed if you were to rely solely on weight loss pills. The placebo effect also comes into play, making it easier to shed weight because you believe the pills are working, but that, really, is not something to worry about.

Features

However, the good news ends here. Weight loss supplements can be bad for your health, and also for your pocket. Some substances used in them are banned by the FDA, even though these supplements are sold without prescription, and they may lead to dizziness, nausea, headaches and a general feeling of uneasiness. Some also lead to loose stools and severe diarrhea if they are not combined with a diet that contains an adequate amount of fat. In the worst cases, they may result in strokes or even heart attacks.

Not all weight supplements will have such disastrous effects - there are many ingredients found naturally that will help suppress hunger and increase the burning of calories, and these are safe to use. Some of them would be extracts of green tea or bitter oranges. On the other hand, high does of ephedra or orlistat can cause severe damage to vital organs such as the liver and heart. Being taken orally and traveling through your digestive system, they can also cause gastrointestinal trouble.

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