From the Guidelines
Nutritional supplements have not been shown to be effective for weight loss and are not recommended. According to the most recent and highest quality study 1, reducing processed and ultraprocessed food intake is a more encouraging area of ongoing weight loss research. The study emphasizes the importance of effective long-term weight maintenance programs that provide monthly contact and support, include frequent self-monitoring of body weight and other self-monitoring strategies, and encourage regular physical activity.
Some key points to consider for weight loss include:
- Continuing interventions to maintain weight goals long term, such as monthly contact and support, and frequent self-monitoring of body weight and other self-monitoring strategies 1
- Encouraging regular physical activity, such as 200-300 min/week 1
- Reducing processed and ultraprocessed food intake, which is an area of ongoing weight loss research 1
- Prescribing short-term nutrition intervention using structured, very-low-calorie meals only to carefully selected individuals by trained practitioners in medical settings with close monitoring 1
It's essential to note that while older studies 1 discuss the use of medications for weight loss, such as sibutramine, orlistat, phentermine, and diethylpropion, the most recent and highest quality study 1 does not recommend nutritional supplements for weight loss. Therefore, the focus should be on evidence-based lifestyle interventions, including calorie reduction, exercise, and behavioral modifications, rather than relying on supplements.
From the FDA Drug Label
Use for weight loss in overweight adults, 18 years and older, when used along with a reduced-calorie and low-fat diet Directions read the enclosed brochure for other important information diet and exercise are the starting points for any weight loss program. Most weight loss occurs in the first 6 months. Helps you lose more weight than dieting alone
The most effective supplement mentioned for weight loss is orlistat, which should be used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie, low-fat diet and an exercise program 2, 2. It is essential to note that diet and exercise are the starting points for any weight loss program, and orlistat should be considered as an addition to these efforts 2. Key points to consider when using orlistat for weight loss include:
- Taking 1 capsule with each meal containing fat
- Not taking more than 3 capsules daily
- Using orlistat with a reduced-calorie, low-fat diet and exercise program until reaching the weight loss goal
- Most weight loss occurs in the first 6 months 2 It is crucial to follow the recommended usage and guidelines to achieve effective weight loss with orlistat 2.
From the Research
Effective Supplements for Weight Loss
The following supplements have been studied for their potential in aiding weight loss:
- Orlistat: a drug that blocks intestinal lipase, aiding in weight loss 3
- Liraglutide 3 mg: associated with significant weight reduction, with an average weight loss of 5.6 kg at 6 months 4
- Lorcaserin: associated with weight reduction, although to a lesser extent than liraglutide 3 mg 4
- Phentermine: associated with a high prevalence of ≥5% weight loss, making it a practical choice for short-term weight loss treatment 5
- Phentermine/topiramate: effective for long-term weight loss treatment 5
- Naltrexone/bupropion: less effective compared to other anti-obesity medications, with a lower prevalence of ≥5% weight loss 5
Safety and Efficacy Considerations
When considering dietary supplements for weight loss, it is essential to:
- Ensure the supplement provides nutrients at a level equal to or below recommended dietary allowance/adequate intake levels 6
- Be aware of potential safety concerns, such as those associated with ephedra and ephedrine-containing supplements 6
- Consult authoritative sources for updates on efficacy and safety 6
Comparison of Anti-Obesity Medications
Studies have compared the efficacy of various anti-obesity medications, including: