Your weight loss strategy must include regular exercise combined with balanced and nutritious diet. Your diet must include fresh fruits, vegetables and lean protein like salmon, tuna and chicken breast. Including a few weight loss supplements can also help you in achieving your goal.
Dietary Supplements And Your Weight Loss Strategy
According to a study published in Annals of Internal Medicine, more than 5 million Americans use supplements and medication to lose weight. Many people have started using weight loss drugs after FDA approved phentermine which is drug used for weight loss management. However, supplements for weight loss must play only a secondary role in maintaining your body weight.
Your weight loss strategy must include regular exercise combined with balanced and nutritious diet. Your diet must include fresh fruits, vegetables and lean protein like salmon, tuna and chicken breast. Including a few weight loss supplements can also help you in achieving your goal. Here are some of the supplements that can help you:
Chitosan
One of the main sources of this supplement is the shells of animals like crabs and shrimp. Chitosan is high in fiber and can help you lose weight by binding the cholesterol and fat in the body. This prevents in accumulation of fat which causes weight gain. However, people who are allergic to shellfish must avoid using products that contain chitosan.
Carnitine
This nutrient helps in converting body fat into energy. Carnitine which is produced in kidney and liver is stored in the heart, muscles and brain. Dairy products and red meat are the main sources of carnitine. This nutrient reduces oxidation stress which can help in increasing exercise capacity of people who suffer from angina or heart failure. Taking carnitine not only helps in decreasing the body fat mass but also helps in normalizing blood sugar levels. However, some people who take carnitine supplements may suffer from gastrointestinal upset.
Green Tea
Green tea contains antioxidants which scavenge damaged compounds and free radicals in the body. These compounds can tamper with the DNA and can even damage the cells. Free radicals can cause health problems like heart disease and cancer. Green tea also helps in stopping coronary artery diseases by reducing triglyceride and cholesterol levels.
Hydroxycitric Acid
This over-the-counter (OTC) supplement is derived from the fruit of Garcinia cambogia plant. According to a study published in the health magazine Journal of Obesity, it was reported that this supplement prevents the body from storing fatty acids. The study also suggested that hydroxycitric acid helps in suppressing appetite.
Alli
If the amount of fat absorbed by the body is reduced, it can help you in losing weight. Alli which is a reduced strength version of orlistat uses this process to promote weight loss. Alli works by preventing the generation of lipase which helps the body break down fat into components that can be stored by the body. The fat that is not stored by the body is eliminated through your bowels. Health experts recommend that you must not take Alli with more than 16 grams of fats. If an increased amount of fat is taken, it can increase the risk of gas and diarrhea.
Even though most supplements for weight loss can help you achieve your goals, it is wise to consult a nutritionist before you take these supplements. Nutritionists will analyze your medical condition before they suggest supplements and medication.
