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Slimming pills. Are they the solution?

PRESCRIBED

There are two types of slimming pill available on prescription in the USA. Meridia (sibutramine) affects the brain chemistry causing the release of noradrenaline and serotonin, which makes you feel full more quickly.

By contrast, Xenical (orlistat), works by causing the stomach or intestines to absorb about 30% less of the fat you eat into the bloodstream. In common with many drug treatments there are side effects associated with both of these drugs. For instance, sibutramine can increase blood pressure, and orlistat can cause diarrhoea and flatulence.

These drugs are only really suitable for obese people and the US authorities advise doctors to prescribe them only in special circumstances. Broadly speaking this means to people with a body mass index (BMI) of 27 or more who have obesity-related complications such as diabetes, high blood pressure or sleep apnea and who have made serious attempts to lose weight by dieting, exercise and/or other changes in their behaviour. Of course your doctor will offer detailed advice.

But to help you shed those unwanted pounds naturally but effectively, we strongly recommend EcoSlim. Developed by the leading American herbal experts, Native Remedies, it's made from a unique combination of herbs. EcoSlim will help boost your metabolism and improve digestive and liver functions while suppressing your appetite, so you're not tempted to 'snack' between meals. Soon you will be trim and slim and full of energy.

Slimming pills

OVER THE COUNTER - JUST FOR THE RECORD

Bitter orange > Decreases appetite?

• Sold as substitute for the banned ephedra but may cause similar health problems.
• Long-term effects unknown

Chitosan > Blocks the absorption of dietary fat?

• Relatively safe, not likely to help long-term weight loss
• Can cause constipation, bloating and other gastrointestinal complaints
• Unknown long-term effects

Chromium > Reduces body fat and builds muscle?

• Relatively safe, but not likely to aid weight loss
• Long-term effects unknown

Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) > Reduces body fat, decreases appetite and builds muscle?

• May decrease body fat and increase muscle, but isn't likely to reduce total body weight
• Can cause diarrhoea, indigestion and other gastro-intestinal problems

Country mallow > Decreases appetite and increases the number of calories burned?

• Contains ephedra, which is so dangerous it's banned
• Likely unsafe and should be avoided

Ephedra > Decreases appetite?

• Causes high blood pressure, heart irregularities, sleeplessness, seizures, heart attacks, strokes and even death
• Banned from the market because of safety concerns, but may still be legally sold as a tea
• Despite the ban, many ephedra products still sold on the internet. AVOID!

Green tea extract > Increases calorie and fat metabolism and decreases appetite?

• Limited evidence to support the claim
• Can cause vomiting, bloating, indigestion and diarrhoea
• May contain large amounts of caffeine

Guar gum > Blocks the absorption of dietary fats and increases the feeling of fullness, which leads to decreased calorie intake?

• Relatively safe, but unlikely to help weight loss
• Can cause diarrhoea, flatulence and other gastro-intestinal problems

Hoodia > Decreases appetite?

• No conclusive evidence to support the claim