Weight loss is a common goal for many people every day. They want to shed stubborn pounds so they can look and feel healthier. Losing weight can also help them gain the self-confidence that comes with having a healthier physique.
Some people are able to lose weight naturally through a healthy diet and regular exercise. Others play sports or increase their workout regimens to lose pounds faster. Still others have a more difficult time losing weight. It seems like no matter how hard they try, they can’t lose the weight that’s been burdening them for a long time.
This is when people start to turn to dietary and weight loss supplements. There are many such products available on the market today. However, some of them can have some serious side effects. Take time to read all product warning labels very carefully, and talk to your doctor or health care provider about any health concerns that you may have.
Here are five supplements that can have crazy effects to the body:
1. Orlistat (Alli).
Also known under the prescription brand name of Xenical, orlistat is a weight loss drug that works by slowing fat breakdown in the body, which means that users generally are consuming fewer calories from fat in their daily meals. While the drug has proven to lower blood pressure and the risk of type 2 diabetes in some users, it can have some serious digestive side effects. Such side effects include loose stools or unpredictable bowel movements. Experts recommend having a low-fat diet when using this supplement to counteract these effects.
2. Clenbuterol.
Clenbuterol is frequently used by allergy sufferers. It works at building muscle mass and lowering body fat, so it has been used as a weight loss supplement by many. However, clen has some nasty side effects. Users have sometimes experienced rapid breathing, an increased heart rate, increased anxiety, heart palpitations and chest pain. This product has not been approved for over the counter use in the US, and is often found as an off-label product for weight loss or enhancing athletic performance. It is also on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s Prohibited List.
3. Conjugated Lineolic Acid (CLA).
CLA is a form of trans fat that has been found in dairy products like butter and cheese. It’s one of the safer trans fats on the market. It breaks down the fat in our bodies and can boost a person’s metabolism. Increased use over time can have some concerning side effects. Some reported problems are increased swelling and inflammation, greater fat content in the liver and increased resistance to insulin.
4. Appetite Suppressants (Anorexiants).
There are many kinds of appetite suppressants sold every day. Also referred to as anorexiants, they work to convince your brain that your stomach is full, thereby causing you to feel full and eat less. This feeling is caused by increased production of serotonin, which is a natural chemical that regulates our sleep patterns, moods and appetite. Every product has different effects to different people. Depending on the product taken, the side effects can also vary. Suicidal thoughts and actions, strokes and heart attacks have been reported by users of various appetite suppressants.
5. Hydroxycut
There are many off-brands and variation, but most people know this product because of its marketing campaigns. It’s one of the most popular weight loss supplements on the market today. Made from plant extracts and caffeine, it claims to help people lose weight fast. There have been some success stories, but just like any other product, it’s something that should be used in moderation. Because of the high caffeine content, users may experience increased restlessness and irritability, feeling jittery or anxious, more frequent perspiration, anxiety, nausea or diarrhea.
These are just some of the many weight loss and dietary supplements that can affect your body positively or negatively. Many of them are usually safe to use according to their recommended dosage. If you feel ill or uncomfortable after taking them, seek medical help and discontinue taking them if these feelings they persist. These products are intended to be used along with a healthy diet and exercise, and should not replace a good meal or workout in anyway. Used correctly, supplements can help keep you on track with your weight loss goals.