Those who have lost weight and have kept it off will tell you: there is no magic pill for effective long-term weight loss. So rather than investing in weight loss pills that are sold as a supplement and may not even be regulated, there are better ways to achieve your goals to lose – and keep off – excess weight. If you are considering weight loss pills, here’s what you need to know, and some healthy alternatives to consider to help you fit back into your favorite jeans.
Weight Loss Pills and Supplements
There are thousands of non-prescription weight loss pills and supplements on the market that promise fantastic results. However, it’s important to remember that what you see isn’t always what you get. For example, many supplements contain excessive amounts of caffeine, while others may contain traces of prescription medications that aren’t listed on the label. Still others may contain ingredients such as chitosan, which can cause severe allergic reactions in people who are allergic to shellfish. With many weight loss supplements, side-effects may include constipation and cramping, dehydration, irritability, headaches or insomnia. Remember, the Federal Drug Administration treats dietary supplements as food rather than drug; this means that manufacturers don’t have to prove a product’s effectiveness or safety before it hits the market.
Prescription Weight Loss Pills
In some cases, doctors will prescribe pills that can support a weight loss program. These pills, which may include active ingredients like xenical, phentermine or lorcaserin, are prescribed for those whose body mass index (BMI) is higher than 30; or whose weight is impacted by a medical condition such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure. While these drugs can be effective at blocking fat or curbing appetite, they are primarily prescribed to help those with chronic conditions achieve more balanced health. Unless you are obese and have an additional medical condition you are trying to manage, your doctor will likely recommend other means to achieve your weight loss goals.
Safe, Medically Managed Weight Loss
Rather than relying on medications or a supplement you saw advertised on an infomercial or the internet, try focusing on a sensible, healthy diet combined with increased movement and exercise. The most effective way to lose weight is through an integrative approach – one that incorporates healthy diet and exercise and is overseen by a doctor who specializes in weight loss management.
Integrative Weight Loss in North Texas
Losing weight for some may simply require putting down the fork and exercising; others may have an underlying medical condition that is affecting their ability to lose weight. An integrated and functional medical evaluation is a good start. At AlphaCare Wellness Center in Weatherford, Dr. Catherine Oseni offers a fully integrative approach to weight loss that uncovers the reasons you may be overweight. Dr. Oseni knows that no two weight loss programs are the same, and will recommend what is best for you, to include custom-made medications and pharmaceutical-grade nutritional supplements that can help reset your metabolism and restore hormonal balance.
Whether you are a few pounds overweight, seeking to achieve a healthy lifestyle or are obese, Dr. Oseni can help you lose weight safely. Reach out to her at AlphaCare Wellness Center by calling (817) 550-6332 today. Too busy to visit our office? Dr. Oseni offers a telemedicine option through a secure, personalized URL. Why wait? Contact Dr. Oseni today to begin your journey to wellness.