We are bombarded with ads in all media forms for miraculous cures that make seemingly magical claims of quick weight loss without the need for dieting and exercise. The claims are highly effective, and the slimming and diet supplements industry is now worth billions of dollars. However, it is natural to be skeptical when encountering such claims. So, the question is--do slimming and diet supplements really work and are there any potential negative side effects that can result from taking slimming and diet supplements?
Slimming and diet supplements are broken up into three major classes. The first type is the prescription weight loss drugs which can only be taken under the care of a physician. These drugs typically stimulate the brain to suppress the appetite or work within the digestive system to reduce the metabolism of fat. The second class of slimming and diet supplements is the over the counter drug. These slimming and diet supplements are much simpler than the prescription variety, and typically operate by increasing the metabolism via the use of stimulates and (until it was outlawed) unsafe chemicals such as ephedrine. The final group of slimming and diet supplements, herbal supplements, is growing in popularity. Herbal supplements use naturally occurring chemicals to reduce appetite and may also speed metabolism, depending on the herbs. The disadvantage of herbal slimming and diet supplements is that they are not subjected to the same rigorous testing that other medication must undergo.
Regardless of whether or not you choose to use slimming and diet supplements to help you lose weight, a couple of things are certain. First, there is no substitute for exercising regularly and controlling your diet. Second, you should always get a physician's advice before taking over the counter or herbal slimming and diet supplements.
