Weight Loss Pill

There are two basic types of weight loss or diet pills: prescription pills and non-prescription pills.

Prescription Pills - Weight Loss Drugs

Prescription weight loss pills are like drugs. They are closely regulated and require FDA approval. Examples of such weight loss pills include Xenical (Orlistat), Phentermine/ Fentermine and Meridia (Sibutramine). These pills are typically subjected to a range of clinical tests to prove their effectiveness for weight reduction and to monitor side effects and health risks.

Non Prescription Pills - Weight Loss Supplements

Non-prescription weight loss pills can be purchased over-the-counter and are subject to only minimal FDA regulation. Non prescription pills are also referred to as weight loss supplements. Examples include pills from Herbalife%u2122 and Metabolife%u2122 as well as herbal weight loss pills, fat-burners, stackers and other diet or sports supplements.

Side Effects and Dangers of OTC Weight Loss Pills

The side effects and dangers of OTC diet and weight loss pills can vary enormously because many of these pills contain a cocktail of ingredients and because dosage instructions may be inadequate. Possible side effects include: nervousness, tremor, diarrhea, bulging eyes, racing heartbeat, elevated blood pressure even heart failure.

Side Effects and Dangers of Prescription Diet Pills, Drugs

The dangers of prescription diet pills are consistent with other similar drugs. Accidental overdose is a common problem when taking these diet pills. This is because many diet pills contain similar ingredients to non-prescription medications like nasal decongestants.

Side Effects of Diet Pills That Work on the Brain

Diet pill side effects of drugs that operate on the brain to reduce appetite include: raised blood pressure, chest pain, fever, hair loss, depression, impotence, heart damage, to name a few.

Side Effects of Diet Pills That Work in the Gut

The most popular of the 'gut' prescription diet pills is Xenical. Licensed for long-term use, it's side effects include: diarrhea, unexpected fecal discharge and oily stools. To reduce these side effects, Xenical-users are advised to follow a low-fat diet plan.

What is the best type of exercise for losing weight?

Aerobic exercise is the best type of exercise for weight loss. The activity chosen should use large muscle groups, be rhythmic and be continuous. Some examples of aerobic exercise are swimming, running, walking, bicycling, aerobic dancing, and hiking. For some obese individuals their physicians may recommend that they participate in non-weight bearing exercise, such as bicycling or swimming.

How often does a person need to exercise to lose weight?

A person should start slowly--three to four times per week for a few months, working up to five to six times per week. Working out three times a week will improve cardiovascular fitness but it is not frequent enough for the ideal weight loss program.

How hard does a person have to work when working out?

You should not be working so hard that you cannot carry on a conversation. The "talk test" is an easy way to tell if you are working too hard. Your physician or exercise physiologist should start you out at 45 percent to 65 percent of your maximum heart rate. To find your exercise heart rate: 220 - age x 45 percent to get the lower end for your exercise heart rate, and repeat the process using 65 percent to get the upper end.

How long must a person exercise?

If fat loss is the goal, you need 30 to 60 minutes of aerobic activity per workout. Sixty minutes will produce results faster than 30 minutes. The workout should consist of a warm-up of 5 to 10 minutes, the aerobic activity for 30 to 60 minutes, and the cool-down phase lasting 5 to 10 minutes. If you have not been exercising, you should start out at a lesser amount of time (15 to 30 minutes), and GRADUALLY work up to longer periods. If you have been inactive for more than a few months, you may need to start out with 10 minutes of walking, swimming, or cycling and slowly work up to 60 minutes over a period of months.

Are there some people who should not exercise?

Before starting an exercise program, you should consult with your physician first. If you are over-weight or over age 35, have been inactive for several months, have a family history of cardiovascular or respiratory disease, have high blood pressure or elevated total cholesterol/HDL ratio, smoke cigarettes, have diabetes mellitus or other chronic illness--then you need to see a physician before starting an exercise program. Your physician can evaluate your fitness level and your needs. If you are under age