Like many other mothers, you may be looking for a little help in losing some weight. According to Colorado State University, almost 50 million people in America begin a new diet every year. Of that number, only about 5 percent keep the weight off. With all the advertisements for diet aids and weight-loss drugs, you might be wondering if any of the over-the-counter (OTC) pills or prescription medications are effective or if they are all just hype. Remember to consult your doctor before you begin any program that includes diet pills.
Alli
An OTC version of the prescription drug, Xenical, Alli may help you lose your excess weight by blocking the absorption of dietary fat. According to the Mayo Clinic, Alli may be a helpful diet pill, but it is less efficient than the prescription version. The manufacturers of this diet pill instruct dieters to follow an exercise regimen and reduce the amount of dietary fat. These healthy lifestyle changes may account for some weight loss while taking this pill. Although an effective diet pill, Alli may produce some undesirable side effects, such as loss of bowel control. Consuming a high-fat meal while taking Alli may cause diarrhea and very loose stools.
Chitosan
Chitosan is a weight loss pill that contains a type of fiber from shellfish. This non-prescription diet aid may help you get rid of a few extra pounds by reducing fat absorption. Colorado State University advises that the pill’s effectiveness may depend on the dieter’s adherence to a reduced-calorie, low-fat diet. They also warn that gas, diarrhea and bloating may occur when taking this type of diet pill.
Xenical
If dieting and OTC diet aids don’t seem to be helping you lose weight, you may want to talk to your doctor about prescription pills. He may prescribe Xenical. Like Alli, this drug works by blocking fat in the gastrointestinal tract. Although effective in blocking some of the fat you consume from adding to the amount of fat on your waistline, this drug may cause loss of bowel control and vitamin deficiencies.
Meridia
Meridia, a prescription diet pill, works by making you feel full, lowering your chances of overeating. Your doctor may prescribe this diet drug, if you have lots of excess weight. Approved for obese people, Meridia may help you reduce your overall caloric intake, helping you lose weight without feeling hungry or deprived. Like many types of drugs, Meridia may cause unhealthy side effects. You may experience constipation, insomnia and dry mouth while taking Meridia. According to Ball State University, you should not use this drug if you have a risk of heart disease.
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