Healthy Weight Loss Supplements

Many Americans turn to healthy weight loss supplements to help shed those pesky extra pounds. With so many dietary supplements on the market, how do you know which ones are right for you?

Miracle Supplements?

You've seen the advertisements, right? TV and magazine ads boast about the pounds you'll lose if you just purchase and take their miraculous supplements. The reality is quite different. Obviously, there isn't a miracle supplement to melt those pounds off. Your metabolism, age, genetic makeup, daily diet and activity level all have a direct bearing on your ability to lose weight. Are there really healthy weight loss supplements that can aid in weight loss? Of course, but you certainly can't depend on these supplements alone.

In order for a dietary supplement to work, you've got to change your lifestyle. Even if you don't choose to participate in a formal weight loss program, such as Weight Watchers, you should be conscious about the foods you place in your body. Diet supplements are just that…supplements. They are designed to work along with other steps taken to lose excess weight, such as choosing healthy foods and incorporating an exercise program into your daily schedule. Does it matter what type of supplement you choose? Absolutely! Some supplements might actually be dangerous to your health, so educate yourself before you add one to your diet.

Guidelines and Regulations

Some consumers mistakenly believe that if a dietary supplement is on the market, that it is considered safe to consume. While the FDA does regulate supplements, its regulations differ from those that govern medicines. The Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994 (DSHEA) states that the supplement manufacturer is responsible in regards to guaranteeing that a dietary supplement is safe before it is made available to consumers. The FDA takes action against dietary supplements deemed unsafe after those supplements have already been placed on the market. Many people are also surprised to learn that manufacturers typically don't have to get FDA approval before they begin selling their supplements, but are only required to make sure that their advertising and labeling are truthful.

Healthy Weight Loss Supplements

Do weight loss supplements work?

Healthy weight loss supplements can aid in weight loss, but that doesn't mean you should leave off the fruits and vegetables. The trick to choosing the best supplements for your dietary needs is to choose supplements that control appetite and increase metabolism—safely. The following supplements may work for you if you combine them with a healthy diet and a regular exercise program.

• Green Tea-Comes in capsule, tablet, or tea bag, and can increase your metabolism.
• Protein Powder-Reduces hunger and builds muscle. You can take the powder in the form of a milkshake.
• Fiber-Various weight loss programs often encourage their participants to include a spoonful of fiber powder into their daily diet. Fiber helps control appetite.

Obviously, there are numerous other dietary supplements on the market, and more are added every day. Before you take any supplement, talk to your doctor. Don't fall for the theory that the higher the dosage the more weight you'll lose. Be safe!