An appetite suppressant is something that will trick the body into thinking it is full. Most supplements are not safe to take, even though they claim to be effective in suppressing the appetite and contributing to weight loss. The side effects and dangers outweigh any short term benefits. Safe herbal supplements and drugs work most effectively when used with a diet and exercise program. Once the supplement is no longer used, the diet and exercise will assist with keeping the weight off for the long term.
Herbal Supplements
There is little control on diet and weight loss advertising claims for herbal supplements. The effective claims for these supplements are not backed up with medical proof. When looking for an effective appetite suppressant, you must also consider what is safe. Herbal supplements do not work alone in weight loss, but can be effective when combined with a healthy diet and exercise program. Natural antioxidant supplements, such as green tea and acai berry, can increase a person's overall health when combined with a healthy diet and exercise program. In return, the appetite will be suppressed and weight loss may occur.
Green tea antioxidants are being studied for their effectiveness with weight loss and cholesterol lowering abilities. Green tea can be taken as a supplement, but the preferred method is to drink in tea form. The increased water consumption when drinking the tea will also aid in weight loss and appetite suppression.
Acai berry supplements are similar to green tea in that they are an excellent antioxidant and provide many health benefits. The acai berry is not the wonder fruit that it claims to be, however, there are benefits to taking the supplement. The acai berry has fiber, which works as an appetite suppressant; however this supplement will not work effectively without a healthy diet and exercise.
Prescription Drug Supplements
The drugs Xenical and Meridia are commonly prescribed for appetite suppression in obese people. These are the only drugs approved for use for up to two years, which is considered long-term use. Weight loss prescriptions are monitored by a physician, thus making them safer and more effective. The prescriptions are more costly than herbal supplements and usually not covered by insurance.
As of 2006 Xenical is also sold over the counter under the name Alli, which is a reduced potency form of the drug. It is recommended to get a doctor's approval and exam prior to starting any drug or weight loss treatment. Xenical blocks the absorption of approximately one-third of the fat digested. The negatives for Xenical are an oily bowel movement and anal discharge.
Meridia blocks signals in the brain that control appetite, making you think you are no longer hungry. The side effects for this drug are high blood pressure, increased heart rate, and constipation. Due to the side effects, patients must be under a physician's care.
