According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, obesity rates in the United States have increased dramatically over the last two decades. As a result, increasing numbers of overweight people are turning to appetite suppressants to lose weight. Prescription appetite suppressants are difficult to obtain and may have unpleasant side effects. Natural supplements used as has been gained popularity in recent years due to prescription medication problems. Unfortunately, even herbal appetite suppressants can cause serious side effects and health complications. As with any medication, consult your doctor before using natural supplements as appetite suppressants.
Function
Appetite suppressants control the appetite and prevent overeating. Basically, they trick the body into feeling full, thereby reducing the physical craving for food. Some work by slowing the absorption of food or reducing the speed with which food moves through the gastrointestinal tract. Other appetite suppressants affect the central nervous system in a means similar to stimulant medications.
Types
There are three main types of natural supplements as appetite suppressants: whole foods, whey protein powder and herbal supplements. Effective whole foods as natural appetite suppressants include water, organic pickles, apples and green leafy vegetables. All of these work with the body to decrease appetite naturally. Whey protein powder is an effective natural appetite suppressant that has been used by dieters for many years.
Popular herbal supplements include white willow, glucomannan, ephedrine and St. John's Wort. A cactus-like plant called hoodia gordonii has been receiving attention in the press due to its properties as a powerful appetite suppressant. While hoodia is not available in its raw form, it is available in many natural diet supplement products.
Benefits
When used cautiously and for the short-term, natural supplements as appetite suppressants can provide dieters with the opportunity to develop healthy eating habits while losing a small amount of weight. They provide temporary relief from food cravings and assist in the treatment of compulsive eating. Appetite suppressants are most effective and beneficial when used in combination with other weight loss strategies and regular exercise.
Side Effects
Side effects vary depending on the type of supplement. Those with diuretic properties may cause excessive urination, dehydration and diarrhea. Herbs or other products that act on the central nervous system may cause tremors, dizziness, insomnia or headaches. More serious side effects include those associated with toxicity, interference with blood glucose regulation and serotonin syndrome.
Considerations
Appetite suppressants, even when natural, can be physically addicting if taken long term. Moreover, they are only effective while taking them, and the beneficial effects wear off quickly. If healthy eating habits are not established, the tendency to overeat will return as soon as the appetite suppressants are discontinued. Food cravings may become more significant after stopping appetite suppressants, resulting in weight gain.
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