Obesity is fast becoming the number one health problem in developed and developing countries around the world; this problem is now affecting a large number of children of school entry age. Some people go to extreme lengths to change this situation for example with surgery; the most productive method is by exercising more frequently and changing what you eat. Unfortunately others that can’t wait to get rid of their extra pounds decide to take the quickest way out through the use of weight loss drugs.
The process is relatively simple as the drugs act upon the brain’s own chemical, serotonin, fooling the brain into believing it’s not hungry and at the same time increasing the body’s metabolism. These drugs were quickly removed from circulation when tests revealed that one of the more dangerous side effects was an increased risk of heart valve disease. More recently, new drugs have been developed and prescribed by doctors; many of which are still waiting for FDA approval.
Most people have known friends or family members who have tried using diet pills and have seen tremendous improvement. This is obviously a very tempting prospect, to lose weight whilst eating the same diet. The weight loss drug manufacturers have spent a huge sum on research but this cannot be compared to the amount spent by consumers.
Even with all the testing and new techniques available for manufacturers, many side effects like nausea and diarrhea still exist with the new generation of weight control pills which, incidentally, can still be purchased over the counter. Surprisingly more dangerous side effects exist including stroke, heart attack, renal failure to name only a few, so these drugs are still far from safe to use.
The side effects will depend on the person taking the medicine and can be related to their lifestyle; a consultation with the doctor first, rather than buying them over the counter, can help to reduce side effects; stopping using the drugs completely may not eradicate all the problems they may have caused. These effects can be equally unpleasant as the side effects occurring as a result of taking weight control pills.
Although these weight loss drugs do work, an increase in beneficial effects occurs when regular exercise is undertaken along with a change in eating habits. A low calorie diet would consist of meals that contain vitamins, minerals and fiber which are all essential for good health; the best sources are fruit and vegetables.
Of course this should always be combined with a good exercise routine which will use up excess calories and provide a good all round fitness workout. Of course a good exercise regime will combine exercises that increase the heart rate and exercises that use weights to tone the muscles. A regime of this kind would increase an individual’s metabolic rate.