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Dr. Rajesh Patel, MD.
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Ask the Doctor!
July 2009
Q:
With all the different weight loss products on the market, it makes the choice difficult in finding a product that is safe and fits your needs. Are there any weight loss programs, herbs or something else that you would suggest as a successful yet safe product to use?
-- A. Hoskins, Romeoville, IL
A:
Weight management is a growing concern throughout the country, and rightfully so. About two-thirds of our nation’s population is either overweight or obese. As a result, we’re constantly bombarded with an endless assortment of products and misleading information. This makes it that much tougher for people to engage in meaningful weight management.
The hallmark of weight loss is through proper nutrition* and exercise**. Both aspects must be incorporated for sustainable results. The goal is to create a caloric deficit (calories in vs. out) while feeding your body properly. This method is the safest way to actually get healthy and fit in those jeans at the same time! Too often, the combination of nutrition and exercise is not given a fair chance. The hardest aspect of this method is starting up the first few weeks. However, once you begin seeing and feeling positive effects, it really does get easier to continue.
Keep in mind that there may be an underlying factor associated with weight gain. Things like cortisol or thyroid imbalances can play a role, as well as number of medications. Your physician can help identify such possibilities. If everything checks out fine, then pills may be helpful to a degree. Medications are typically reserved for obese patients, who cannot sustain adequate physical activity and caloric restriction. Prescription medications can be helpful in supporting your goal, but they are not absolute replacements for diet and exercise.
Certain pills like Alli have recently become available over the counter. They prevent some of the fat absorption in your body, but they can lead to an inappropriately low intake of essential vitamins (A, D, E, and K). Herbal products are readily available and gaining in popularity. Unfortunately, there are not enough studies that assess their long-term effects on the body. Pills and herbal supplements are often recalled for potentially carrying significant side effects (namely dangerous drug-drug interactions and heart problems) and therefore should be fully addressed beforehand with your physician. Therefore, be especially wary of over-the-counter products claiming a "boost in metabolism." These non-FDA approved products may result in partial weight loss, but they won’t help keep it off.
On the other hand, products such as protein shakes and fiber powders can offer excellent sources of balanced nutrition. Popular weight management centers can provide excellent support and motivation to meet your goal. Remember to incorporate some form of routine exercise. Activities such as walking and running are great ways to burn calories and reduce stress. Consider teaming up with someone who shares a similar goal. But whether you’re alone or with someone, you will succeed with some persistence and patience.
When accomplished in a safe manner, weight loss is the best goal for those who are overweight or obese. It’s an effective way to ward off numerous diseases such as Hypertension, Diabetes, heart disease and some cancers. Speak with your doctor about developing a tailored plan to meet your individual needs. In your visit, you will discuss important safety issues as well. After an appropriate health assessment, you’ll be ready to go for it. And remember, maintaining a healthy weight is not a temporary task, but a change in overall lifestyle.
* Nutrition: 3 portioned meals (containing about 30% protein, 45% carbohydrate, 25% fat) and 2-3 small snacks in between; fruits, vegetables and foods with low fat/calories; high fiber and water intake are also essential; limit alcohol as much as possible (empty calories!!).
** Exercise: work your way up to a 45 min. mixture of high aerobic exercise and moderate strength training, at least 5 days/week. (If you feel any unusual pain, stop and seek immediate medical attention.)
Submit your questions to askthedoctor@nowoodennickels.org
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