Weight loss drugs have emerged as a way to lose weight. But is it really good for you? Learn about the side effects of weight loss pills in your diet.
What are weight loss drugs?
Weight loss drugs are medications that help you lose weight. They are also called diet pills or anti-obesity medications. These medications are intended to help people lose weight. They work in several ways, including reducing appetite, blocking fat absorption and boosting metabolism, explains dietitian Dr Archana Batra.
Do weight loss drugs work?
Weight loss medications are considered an effective way to lose weight for people who are not able to lose weight naturally. These medications can aid weight loss by reducing food intake, reducing fat absorption, or increasing your metabolism. A study published in Endotext found that medication prescribed for weight loss can help you lose 5-10 percent of your body weight. However, several factors such as regular physical activity play an important role in your weight loss even with medication.
According to Dr. Batra, these medicines are effective only when you take them along with necessary changes in your diet and lifestyle. By doing this, your weight loss can become permanent, but only if you continue to follow a healthy lifestyle.
What are the side effects of weight loss drugs?
Like any other medicine, weight loss drugs can have some side effects. However, the side effects of the drug can vary depending on the type of medicine you are taking. Dr. Batra says that weight loss drugs can have some common but mild side effects, which include:
- nausea
- Diarrhea
- constipation
- Stomach discomfort
- heart palpitation
- high blood pressure
- fast heartbeat
- insomnia
- Worry
- Headache
Neurotransmitters are released in excess in the presence of stimulants, making it difficult to relax and fall asleep. Experts say some of the more serious side effects include heart damage associated with older weight loss drugs, increased risk of heart attack or stroke, and even addiction.
Is it safe to take weight loss pills for obesity?
The safety of taking weight loss pills depends on a variety of factors, including the type of medication, your overall health, and whether youâre using it under medical supervision.
Dr. Batra explains that these medications are generally only prescribed for âindividuals who have a high BMI or body mass index.â BMI is a measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies to adults. Doctors may recommend weight loss pills to a person with a BMI of 30 or more and those with weight-related problems such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure. However, they should only be taken under the supervision of a certified doctor and should not be seen as a long-term solution.
Although taking weight loss pills in the short term along with lifestyle changes is considered safe, it is best to consult your doctor before starting any weight loss medication. It is also important to know about the potential benefits and risks of weight loss pills.
Skip the weight loss pills, try these natural methods!
If youâre having a hard time losing weight, there are several permanent and natural weight loss methods you can try instead of relying on medications:
1. Eat whole foods
If youâre trying to lose weight, itâs best to avoid highly processed foods and eat whole foods instead. According to the National Health Services UK, eat a healthy diet consisting of whole foods such as fresh fruit, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy. Itâs best to avoid sugary drinks, processed foods and high-calorie snacks.
2. Strength training can help!
A study conducted by researchers at the University of New South Wales in Australia has found a new systematic review that shows people can lose 1.4 percent of their total body fat with strength training. Dr. Batra recommends that some strength training exercises combined with regular physical activity like walking, swimming and jogging give a healthy chance of weight loss.
3. Practice mindful eating
People who are trying to lose weight may benefit from behavioral adjustments such as mindful eating, which involves paying attention to hunger and satiety cues and avoiding emotional eating. Maintaining a food journal is a useful tool for tracking eating habits. Setting achievable goals and monitoring your progress will help you stay fit.
4. Sleep is important!
It is also beneficial to get a good nightâs sleep of at least 7-9 hours every night. Experts say that insufficient sleep can interfere with the regulation of appetite and metabolism, which can lead to weight gain.
5. Drink plenty of water
Staying hydrated is important to the weight loss process. Staying hydrated throughout the day can help you avoid dehydration, which can sometimes be confused with hunger.
You can try these natural ways to lose weight but if you want to take weight loss pills, make sure you talk to your doctor first.
