Drug Facts

Emphasis on appearance and body structure is the common factor in all the world cultures. Location, religion, culture, and language become irrelevant when it comes to achieving the ideal body structure. People try various things-diet control, exercises, yoga, and weight loss supplements in their quest for a fabulous body.

Weight loss supplements have become very popular over the last decade. Although their effectiveness is questioned by several medical professionals, they seemed to have helped several people lose weight. Several weight loss supplements claim to provide results overnight. Such claims may be dubious, but there is no denying the fact that these supplements are here to stay.

Of the various weight loss supplements, the most popular are supplements containing chitosan, chromium, citrus aurantium, conjugated linoleic acid, and plantago psyllium.

Chitosan, derived from lobster’s shell, works by binding the fat. There are very few side effects of chitosan, such as constipation and allergies. Chromium helps weight loss by increasing the lean mass and decreasing the body fat. Citrus aurantium is a herbal extract. Although there is no study reporting the usefulness of this for weight loss, several people swear by it. Conjugated linoleic acid, a chief constituent of beef and dairy also increases lean mass. Plantago psyllium is a water soluble fiber obtained from Plantago Ovato seeds. This primarily works as a appetite suppressant, it gives you a sense of fullness when taken prior to a meal.

There are several safety hazards of taking weight loss supplements which are approved by FDA. Many of these supplements may not only be ineffective, they may cause serious side effects. The most common side effects are constipation, effect on the blood pressure and heart, and allergies. It is advisable to take a medical opinion before weight loss supplements are used. Supplements not supported by research studies should be summarily avoided.

It is important to realize that over prolonged use, weight loss supplements may cause severe patho-physiological consequences. It makes more sense to look for ways to lead a healthy lifestyle by incorporating a healthy diet and some sort of an exercise regimen.