Ten Most Frequently Asked Questions About Weight Loss - part 6

6. Are over-the-counter weight loss supplements helpful?

Weight loss supplements can be prescribed by a doctor or bought over the counter in many stores. Prescription weight loss drugs are used to treat obesity, while over-the-counter supplements are generally used for cosmetic weight loss. Non-prescription weight loss supplements include herbal weight loss pills, fat-burning pills, and many other diet and sports supplements.

Most clinical tests for weight loss supplements only last for a few weeks. For this reason, long-term benefits and side effects are often unknown until consumers get hold of a product and begin to use it for months at a time. The human body adjusts quickly to the effects of many weight loss pills, which is why many consumers may notice that a weight loss supplement may only work well for them for a few weeks.

Because weight loss supplements are often used to reap benefits quickly and with little effort, many consumers do little to change their lifestyle while using weight loss supplements.

For this reason, even those who see somewhat dramatic weight loss results might find that they gain the weight back over time. This is because achieving long-lasting weight loss requires that a person change their entire lifestyle. Crash-dieting for a few weeks may help you achieve your goal weight at first, but clinical tests show that in the long run the only way to maintain a healthy weight is to have a healthy lifestyle. This means eating properly and exercising regularly. Walking, hiking, dancing, and swimming are just a few of the activities that can help you lose weight and maintain weight loss.

A genuine candidate for weight loss supplements is a person who is seriously obese to the extent that it affects their health and their daily life. In these situations, the risks of obesity often outweigh the risks of using a weight loss supplement. This should be a person who is ready to commit to a lifestyle of healthy eating habits and regular exercise.

It is important to always talk to your doctor before using a weight loss supplement. Your doctor should know your medical history and perform a medical exam to determine your current health needs.

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