Is Alli a Healthy Weight Loss Supplement?
The New Diet Pill Promises to Help People Lose Weight
Sep 15, 2009
When a person has just a few more pounds to lose, it’s hard to resist all the claims of quick weight loss and promises of shedding pounds for good. The new weight loss supplement on the market is called Alli. Alli is a pill in capsule form that is taken approximately three times a day. The Alli weight loss pill has been approved by the FDA, and it is an over-the-counter treatment, so it does not require a prescription.
How Alli Weight Loss Supplements Work
When a person consumes food, it’s digested in the stomach and small intestine. The pancreas produces specific enzymes for the food eaten. In the case of fats (called lipids), the pancreas produces an enzyme called lipases. The liver also produces bile, which is held and excreted in the gallbladder. Weight loss supplements such as Alli block the enzyme lipase. Since lipase breaks down fat molecules, blocking it reduces the body’s ability to absorb fat, allowing the patient to lose weight and excrete fat rather than absorb it.
Absorption of fat molecules is a natural part of the body’s energy source. Although fats are considered the enemy by most dieters, they are still the best source of energy for the body next to sugar. These two biomolecules are necessary for energy, concentration, and cellular reactions that allow people to function during the day. When taking Alli, ensure that you take the weight loss supplement only until results are seen. Alli should not be taken for an extended period of time to avoid severe side effects from the weight loss supplement.
How Effective is Alli for Weight Loss?
Alli is only recommended for those people who want to lose a minimal amount of weight. Alli is not for people who want to lose a large amount of weight. Alli is shown to have minimal weight loss effects when compared to people who simply use diet and exercise. People who choose to take the weight loss supplement should know that large amount of weight loss is not healthy or probable with Alli.
The Side Effects of Alli Weight Loss Supplements
Even though the drug blocks fats, the fact that it inhibits the body’s natural resource for energy causes some side effects. Since Alli blocks the natural fat breakdown processes, patients experience side effects like diarrhea and the inability to control bowel movements. Some patients experience an increase in bowel movements. The weight loss supplement is also not recommended for patients who are taking cyclosporine or who already have problems absorbing food.
Just like any other type of weight loss supplement, patients should check with a doctor before taking Alli. If the patient needs to lose a few pounds, Alli is a short-term solution to losing a few pounds.
References:
MayoClinic and Alli Weight Loss Supplements
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