Obesity is a global health problem affecting millions of people worldwide. It is associated with various health risks such as diabetes, heart diseases, and stroke, among others. While diet and exercise are the best ways to lose weight, some people may need extra help, and this is where diet pills come in. Over the counter diet pills are readily available and claim to aid weight loss. However, not all diet pills are effective, and some may even be harmful. This article aims to discuss the best over the counter diet pills, their effectiveness, and their potential side effects.
Types of over the counter diet pills
There are several types of over the counter diet pills, including:
- Fat Blockers
Fat blockers such as Orlistat work by preventing the absorption of dietary fats in the intestine. This leads to reduced calorie intake and helps with weight loss.
- Appetite Suppressants
Appetite suppressants such as glucomannan, garcinia cambogia, and green tea extract work by reducing appetite and increasing feelings of fullness. This leads to reduced calorie intake and helps with weight loss.
- Thermogenic Supplements
Thermogenic supplements such as caffeine, green tea extract, and raspberry ketones work by increasing metabolism and thermogenesis (heat production). This leads to increased calorie burning and helps with weight loss.
- Carb Blockers
Carb blockers such as white kidney bean extract work by inhibiting the breakdown of carbohydrates in the intestine. This leads to reduced calorie intake and helps with weight loss.
- Thyroid Supplements
Thyroid supplements such as iodine and selenium work by supporting the thyroid gland’s function. The thyroid gland is responsible for regulating metabolism, and an underactive thyroid can lead to weight gain. By supporting the thyroid gland’s function, these supplements can help with weight loss.
Best over the counter diet pills
- Orlistat
Orlistat is a popular over the counter diet pill that has been approved by the FDA for weight loss. It works by blocking the absorption of fat in the intestine, leading to a reduction in calorie intake. Orlistat has been shown to be effective in aiding weight loss, and it is generally safe. However, it can cause digestive side effects such as diarrhea, bloating, and flatulence.
- Garcinia Cambogia
Garcinia Cambogia is a fruit that contains hydroxycitric acid (HCA), which is believed to aid weight loss by reducing appetite and inhibiting the conversion of carbohydrates into fat. While there is some evidence to support the effectiveness of Garcinia Cambogia in aiding weight loss, more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness. Additionally, it may cause side effects such as headache, dizziness, and nausea.
- Green tea extract
Green tea extract contains catechins, which are believed to aid weight loss by increasing metabolism and fat burning. There is some evidence to support the effectiveness of green tea extract in aiding weight loss, and it is generally safe. However, it may cause side effects such as nausea and stomach upset.
- Raspberry ketones
Raspberry ketones are a compound found in raspberries that are believed to aid weight loss by increasing the breakdown of fat. While there is some evidence to support the effectiveness of raspberry ketones in aiding weight loss, more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness. Additionally, it may cause side effects such as nausea and insomnia.
Effectiveness of over the counter diet pills
While over the counter diet pills can aid weight loss, their effectiveness varies depending on the type of pill and individual factors such as diet and exercise. Orlistat has been shown to be effective in aiding weight loss, with studies showing that it can lead to an average weight loss of 5% to 10%. Garcinia Cambogia, green tea extract, and raspberry ketones have some evidence to support their effectiveness in aiding weight loss, but more research is needed.
Potential side effects of over the counter diet pills
- Digestive issues – Many diet pills contain ingredients that can cause digestive issues such as diarrhea, constipation, bloating, and flatulence. Orlistat, in particular, is known to cause these side effects as it blocks the absorption of fat in the intestine.
- Headache – Some diet pills, including Garcinia Cambogia and raspberry ketones, may cause headaches, which can be mild to severe.
- Nausea and vomiting – Many diet pills contain ingredients that can cause nausea and vomiting. Green tea extract, Garcinia Cambogia, and raspberry ketones are some of the diet pills known to cause these side effects.
- Insomnia – Diet pills that contain stimulants such as caffeine may cause insomnia or difficulty sleeping.
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure – Some diet pills, particularly those that contain stimulants such as caffeine, can increase heart rate and blood pressure, which can be dangerous for people with underlying heart conditions.
- Anxiety and nervousness – Diet pills that contain stimulants such as caffeine may cause anxiety and nervousness.
In conclusion, over the counter diet pills can aid weight loss, but their effectiveness and safety vary. Orlistat is the best over the counter diet pill, with proven effectiveness and relatively safe. However, it can cause digestive side effects. Garcinia Cambogia, green tea extract, and raspberry ketones have some evidence to support their effectiveness, but more research is needed, and they can cause side effects such as headache, dizziness, nausea, and stomach upset. It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet and regular exercise, and to consult a healthcare professional before taking any over the counter diet pills.
Recommended reading: The Safest Over-the-Counter Diet Pills for Weight Loss
