In a society that values thin bodies, weight-loss strategies are at the peak of popularity. Quick fix supplements are said to guarantee fast, effective results and satisfy consumer desires. Such “solutions,” however, can result in detrimental effects on the body and sometimes lead to unhealthy results, including death.
Overweight individuals who want a thinner body often want it immediately and easily. Hoping that over the counter pills will assist them in doing so, dieters often use supplements claiming to be natural products with harmless vitamins and minerals. Since such supplements are not considered drugs, they do not undergo testing or serious government scrutiny. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) which oversees drugs and foods for human consumption does not regulate health products sold over the counter. This includes dietary supplements.
The long-term effects of quick fix supplements are rarely considered by eager dieters.
In an article for MedicineNet.com, Dr. Tse-Ling Fong says that “within three months of starting Lipokinetix, seven patients developed symptoms of acute hepatitis, including tiredness, loss of appetite and abdominal pain.” According to Dr. Fong, blood tests revealed severe liver damage caused by the weight-loss pills.
In Hawaii, many people took the diet supplement OxyElite Pro but within months became extremely ill late last year. One woman, who used the product, had to be placed in a medically induced coma, but died of liver failure which was later attributed to the supplement. Two others were forced to have liver transplants as a result of OxyElite Pro.
Rather than seeking immediate solutions through so-called weight loss remedies, people should practice natural weight loss strategies, including exercise and eating less.
Artificial weight-loss strategies are not the proper solutions. They are often not in the individual’s best interest for weight loss. Being patient, eating nutritious foods and exercising properly allow individuals to achieve weight goals the healthy and safe way.
