Instead, they should be used only as directed and paired with a balanced diet, healthy lifestyle, and regular physical activity for best results. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. VIEW ALL HISTORY.

This article tells you all you need to know about GLP-1 agonists like Wegovy, including whether they are safe and effective for weight loss. Alli diet pills are the over-the-counter version of a weight loss drug called orlistat. This article looks at whether they are actually worth taking….

Plenity, a new hydrogel capsule that expands in the stomach to make a person feel full with less food, has been approved for use by the FDA to help…. Many people store fat in the belly, and losing fat from this area can be hard. Here are 18 effective tips to lose belly fat, based on studies.

Though fad diets typically promise quick and easy weight loss, they seldom live up to the hype. However, these 8 fad diets actually work. If losing weight is your goal, this article covers 18 foods that may help support a healthy and sustainable weight loss journey, according to science.

Sabudana, also known as tapioca pearls or sago, is a high-carbohydrate food. It may not be good for weight loss. To lose weight long-term, you don't need crash diets or boot camp. Instead, start by simply replacing processed foods with real foods.

Patients with diabetes who used GLP-1 drugs, including tirzepatide, semaglutide, dulaglutide, and exenatide had a decreased chance of being diagnosed…. A Quiz for Teens Are You a Workaholic? How Well Do You Sleep? Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect.

Nutrition Evidence Based Are Weight Loss Medications Effective? A Dietitian Explains. Medically reviewed by Jerlyn Jones, MS MPA RDN LD CLT , Nutrition — By Rachael Ajmera, MS, RD and Kris Gunnars, BSc — Updated on November 20, On this page Approved drugs Effectiveness Prescription drugs Who should use When to talk with a doctor FAQs Bottom line.

How we vet brands and products Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind. Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we: Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?

Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence? Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices? We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process. Was this helpful? What medications are FDA approved for weight loss? How effective are prescription weight loss drugs? Pros and cons of weight loss medications.

Pros effective for weight loss when used alongside dietary changes and regular physical activity approved by FDA for weight management might offer other health benefits, including improved blood sugar, blood pressure, or cholesterol levels many medications available through telehealth platforms.

Cons not suitable for everyone some medications may be expensive, depending on insurance coverage can cause side effects, some of which may be serious weight regain is possible once medication is discontinued more research needed on long-term health effects. Prescription weight loss drugs.

Who are weight loss drugs for? When to talk with a doctor. Frequently asked questions. The bottom line. How we reviewed this article: Sources. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations.

We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

Nov 20, Written By Rachael Ajmera, MS, RD, Kris Gunnars. Nov 17, Medically Reviewed By Jerlyn Jones, MS MPA RDN LD CLT. Share this article. Read this next. GLP-1 Medications for Weight Loss and Type 2 Diabetes This article tells you all you need to know about GLP-1 agonists like Wegovy, including whether they are safe and effective for weight loss.

Vitamin D also plays a role in sleep regulation 38 , and as we discussed with magnesium, poor sleep is associated with increased calorie intake, snacking, and less healthy food choices.

Because vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin, it can accumulate in your body, and the risk of toxicity 39 is higher than with water-soluble vitamins your body can excrete through urine.

The recommended daily intake 40 for vitamin D for adults is international units IU or 15 micrograms mcg. In collaboration with registered dietitian Destini Moody, along with two medical professionals in my family my mom, Kerri Kittrell, nurse practitioner, and my stepfather, Dr.

We summarize that guide here. An important distinction: Weight loss supplements are just another form of vitamins, minerals, and other compounds found in food. Weight loss medications, on the other hand, are specially formulated chemicals that interfere with certain bodily actions such as suppressing hunger hormones.

Destini Moody, RD , says another difference is that supplements are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, whereas medications are.

With input from registered dietitians, we chose our recommended supplements by focusing on nutrients with a proven history of efficacy and safety. Our recommendations are nutrients you need in your day-to-day life—not just for weight loss, but for your health.

We also personally tried the supplements we recommend in this article. Our focus is helping our readers lose weight effectively, safely, and for the long term. This is not to say that all weight loss products are inherently bad. Certain supplements have a healthy place in a well-rounded weight loss program.

Dietary supplements are regulated by the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act 1 DSHEA of The DSHEA stipulates that manufacturers are responsible for clearly and accurately labeling their products and ensuring they are free from banned ingredients.

This is why third-party testing is so important, especially for weight loss supplements, which have a history of mislabeling Look for these key terms as you shop for supplements to determine whether a product is independently tested:.

Hopefully, you now have an understanding of which supplements work for weight loss, which ones still need more research, and which ones are dangerous. The most important thing is to look for supplements that are third-party tested and have a transparent label that is easy to understand.

The nutrition information and ingredients list should be clear and comprehensive. Better yet, the company will provide additional resources so you can learn more about the ingredients, where they come from, and what they actually do in the body.

Watch out for hyperbolic phrases and promises that seem unrealistic. A good rule of thumb is to remember that if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.

In general, if something claims to make your body burn more calories on its own without exercise or any lifestyle changes, avoidance is the best policy. At a minimum, consult with a registered dietitian before taking it. For instance, taking vitamin B12 or magnesium or vitamin D offers no benefit to those who are not deficient in those nutrients.

Likewise, consuming more fiber or protein confers no additional benefits if you already get enough. You can ask your healthcare provider for bloodwork to determine deficiencies. The better question is: Do they work safely and for the long haul? Diet pills can certainly induce weight loss, and do so quickly, but they are not a smart or safe long-term strategy.

The best way to lose weight is to establish a safe calorie deficit through exercise and diet. Our recommendations for the best weight loss supplements are:. No supplements burn belly fat on their own. Losing body fat, including on the abdomen, requires a caloric deficit. You can achieve a caloric deficit through diet and exercise.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases. Read more. Our superhero workouts will get you looking and feeling like your favorite heroes from the MCU and beyond!

Check them out here! The innovative Rogue Monster Slinger from Rogue Fitness has been released. This new cable-pulley and band resistance system will allow you to perform numerous exercises and perhaps save you space by not having a dedicated pulley system.

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Learn more about our experts. GGR Score: 4. Check Price. Product Highlights Developed with medical professionals and nutritional experts Ingredients are backed by clinical studies Free from wheat, eggs, tree nuts, peanuts, and gluten, No artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners, coating, or shellacs Supports brain function, cellular health, and vision.

Bottom Line Pure Encapsulation O. Product Highlights Complete supplement packs Day and night packs of supplements All-in-one product. Cons Customers complain of receiving only partial doses of multiple supplements Relatively expensive More than 15 pills per day.

Product Highlights Whey protein isolate 25 grams of protein per serving Available in 5 flavors Third-party tested. Cons Clumpy when mixed Certain flavors out of stock frequently Only 5 flavors available. Bottom Line Kaged Whey Protein Isolate is a fast-digesting protein available in five flavors with 25 grams of protein per serving.

Product Highlights Multi-source vegan protein powder NSF Certified for Sport, vegan, and gluten-free Includes BCAAs, probiotics, and tart cherry.

Bottom Line The Vega Sport Protein has mixed reviews on taste and blendability, but a higher protein content than most other vegan protein powders. Cons Metamucil claims are based on small studies Contains aspartame Only 1 flavor. Bottom Line Metamucil is a plant-based fiber supplement with good reviews for taste and effectiveness.

Product Highlights Helps reduce occasional bloating and diarrhea Minimizes digestive discomfort associated with travel 10 billion CFUs per dose Made with the most-studied probiotic strain Individually wrapped for protection of live cultures. Cons Pricey Not meant for kids under 12 years old.

Bottom Line If you are looking for a basic daily probiotic Culturelle Digestive Daily is a great option to help occasional stomach discomfort.

Cons Only available in 1 flavor May be sold out Comparably expensive Limited reviews. Bottom Line Transparent Labs Casein Protein provides 25 grams of protein per scoop and is extremely popular among users.

Product Highlights 3 tablets provides g of magnesium bisglycinate Transparent list of ingredients Reportedly high bioavailability Benefits include improved sleep, recovery, and energy Vegan-friendly.

Bottom Line Transparent Labs' Magnesium Bisglycinate tablets provide grams of reportedly highly bioavailable, non-laxative magnesium supplement intended to improve sleep, recovery, and energy levels. Product Highlights Organic blend of B12 and B6 Claims to contain the most advanced form of B12 for maximum absorption Formulated to boost energy, improve mood, and support heart health Subscribe and save option Recommended to take 12 pumps daily.

Product Highlights Gluten free Dairy free NSF Certified for Sport Chelated form for optimal absorption. Cons Higher dose than many people need Might need to take it with food.

Bottom Line Thorne Iron Bisglycinate claims to give your body iron in an optimal form to reap the benefits while making it easy to absorb. Product Highlights Formulated to help support muscle gain 20 grams of research-based active ingredients per serving 8 flavor variations are available.

Cons No creatine Some users report it tastes bad. Do diet pills actually work? What supplements should I take to lose weight faster?

Our recommendations for the best weight loss supplements are: -Best Daily Weight Loss Supplement: Multivitamin -Best-Tasting Weight Loss Supplement: Whey Protein Powder -Best Vegan Supplement for Weight Loss: Vegan Protein Powder -Best Simple Weight Loss Supplement: Fiber -Best Weight Loss Supplement for Gut Health: Probiotic -Best Weight Loss Supplement for Appetite Control: Casein Protein Powder -Best Nighttime Weight Loss Supplement: Magnesium -Best Weight Loss Supplement for Plant-Based Dieters: Vitamin B12 -Best Weight Loss Supplement for Women: Iron -Best Weight Loss Supplement to Use When Working Out: Caffeine.

What supplements burn belly fat? Amanda Capritto, CPT, CNC, CES, CF-L1 Amanda is a content writer and journalist with extensive experience in the health, fitness, lifestyle, and nutrition niches.

This bioactive compound is part of a class of plant alkaloids, naturally occurring in shrubs like Oregon grape and barberry. In fact, it might be one of the most effective natural weight loss supplements ever.

Berberine has a long history in Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine. Lately, this extract has received much attention for its ability to promote healthy blood sugar levels and insulin response, two factors that are key for weight loss 1.

In one meta-analysis, berberine was as effective as oral glucose-lowering drugs in maintaining healthy blood sugar levels 2. Berberine also activates an enzyme called AMPK, which stands for AMP-activate protein kinase.

Carnosine is an amino acid. Carnosine has been shown to modulate the effects of metabolic syndrome, which affects nearly one in six people in the U. Metabolic syndrome can make it difficult to lose weight due to the dysregulation of insulin, blood sugar, and inflammatory proteins called advanced glycation end-products AGEs.

Carnosine is made in the body by combining the amino acids beta-alanine and histidine. However, when carnosine supplements enter the stomach, the protein is quickly broken down into individual amino acids, histidine and beta-alanine.

For this reason, studies show that supplementing with beta-alanine has been shown to raise carnosine concentrations in muscle more efficiently than carnosine itself, leading to benefits in muscle performance especially during high-intensity exercise 6.

Natural supplements for weight loss such as carnosine may be of special importance for vegetarian and vegan diets. Plant-based diets provide little to no carnosine compared to diets that contain meat. Could inflammation be driving your weight gain?

Diets low in omega-3s are linked to higher inflammation, which leads to decreased insulin sensitivity in cells 7. A natural fat burner, this blue-green alga is packed with vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients, including antioxidants, tocopherols, and phenolic compounds.

Spirulina has been shown to decrease appetite, inflammation, and body fat in one study over the course of 12 weeks 8. In addition, studies find it also modulates the production of oxidative stress produced by excess body fat.

This may be one mechanism by which it supports a healthy inflammatory response. Spirulina is a key ingredient in Belly Fix to restore digestive function and promote a healthy metabolism. Taz to restore digestive function and promote a healthy metabolism.

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body. It helps support dozens of different processes from joint health and skin elasticity to a healthy appetite and digestive function. Its power to heal the gut and satiate appetite might be behind its use for weight loss.

Collagen, like other proteins, helps to activate your fullness hormone, leptin. They are a popular part of ketogenic weight loss supplements. Proponents of MCT swear by their appetite-lowering benefits while still helping to bring energy to the brain.

How is this possible? This special fat might be worth its weight in gold to those trying to lose weight.

You also can get orlistat in a reduced-strength form without a prescription Alli. Orlistat can cause side effects such as passing gas and having loose stools.

You need to follow a low-fat diet when taking this medicine. In rare cases, people have had serious liver injury with orlistat. But researchers haven't found that the drug causes liver injuries. Phentermine-topiramate is a combination of a weight-loss drug called phentermine and an anticonvulsant called topiramate.

Phentermine has the potential to be misused because it acts like a stimulant drug called an amphetamine. Other possible side effects include an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, insomnia, constipation, and nervousness.

Topiramate increases the risk of birth defects. Phentermine by itself Adipex-P, Lomaira also is used for weight loss. It's one of four similar weight-loss drugs approved for use for less than 12 weeks, called short-term use. The other drugs in this group aren't often prescribed. Semaglutide also is used to help control type 2 diabetes.

You take it as a weekly shot to manage obesity. The FDA has approved setmelanotide only for people age 6 and older who have obesity due to one of these rare inherited conditions:. To take the drug, you'll need to have test results that show you have one of these conditions.

Setmelanotide doesn't treat any of the gene problems that cause these conditions. But it can help you lose weight. It can lessen your appetite and make you feel fuller. And it may help you burn calories while your body is at rest.

Never give setmelanotide to a child under 6 years old. It can cause newborns and babies to have dangerous reactions.

Weight-loss drugs aren't an easy answer to weight loss. But they may help you make the lifestyle changes that you need to practice to lose weight and improve your health.

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Show references AskMayoExpert. Weight management adult. Mayo Clinic; Obesity adult. How is this possible? This special fat might be worth its weight in gold to those trying to lose weight.

Their special molecular structure bypasses normal digestion, passively diffusing MCTs straight to the liver. Then, they are further broken down into free fatty acids.

In addition, once in the liver, MCTs promote the utilization of other fatty acids already present in the liver, further promoting satiety and reduced cravings and appetite 9. Belly Fix contains coconut MCTs in addition to superfood spirulina and collagen peptides in a simple, complete digestive health supplement to restore digestion and promote a well-functioning metabolism and the healthful use of body fat for fuel.

Healthy gut bacteria are the key to many different metabolic processes, and healthy weight loss is one of them. Studies comparing intestinal flora have found a reduced number and type of these friendly bacteria in obese individuals as compared to those at a healthy weight For a healthy liver and weight loss, B vitamins provide some of the most valued nutrients for the body, and sometimes the hardest to get in diets.

Their functions are vast and help support a healthy and robust metabolism. There are eight different B vitamins, and they function optimally synergistically, or when combined with one another in the proper ratios. The B vitamins that make up a B complex are:.

Vitamin B1 helps the body utilize carbohydrates for energy. B12 is necessary for dozens of metabolic functions, in addition to energy expenditure It properly functions metabolism and helps to clear unwanted substances from causing damage in our body.

Your liver has much more to do with optimal well-being AND a healthy weight than most people realize. Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and leeks, or any vegetable in the cruciferous family, are helpful for supporting natural detox pathways that play a role in a well-functioning metabolism.

You can also opt for any deeply colored green veggie for similar benefits. If your diet is low in these foods, adding a high-quality greens supplement can support your weight loss goals. Plus, it can promote healthy insulin function and normal blood sugar levels, in addition to detox pathways.

Rest is not typically thought of as a supplement. Your body is a finely tuned machine of hormones and chemical messengers that control every function, including your appetite. What does sleep have to do with the hormones that control appetite? There are many common problems we ALL face when trying to lose weight, even modest amounts.

Yet, for every aspect we have in common, we have just as many unique factors that set us apart from our neighbors. What works for you may not work for any of your friends or family, and vice versa.

At the same time, no single solution contributes to effective, sustained weight loss. Complementing vitamins and other natural supplements:. Get started with holistic and integrative weight loss at CentreSpringMD today.

See which natural supplements for weight loss can give you a push in the right direction. Though not approved specifically for weight loss, some other GLP-1 agonists intended to treat type 2 diabetes are sometimes prescribed off-label for weight management, including :. GLP-1 agonists are only available through a prescription from a doctor or other qualified healthcare professional.

Several telehealth services and weight loss programs may also provide prescriptions if you meet the eligibility criteria, including Ro Body Program and Calibrate. How it works: GLP-1 agonists work by slowing the emptying of the stomach, increasing feelings of fullness, and reducing the secretion of glucagon , a hormone involved in regulating appetite.

Effectiveness: Several studies have found that GLP-1 agonists could be beneficial for weight management. For instance, one study with 1, adults found that taking 2. Another small study found that people taking liraglutide lost an average of Side effects: Common side effects include constipation, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, headaches, increased heart rate, infections, and indigestion.

Though uncommon, severe side effects have also been reported, which may require medical attention. These include kidney problems, thyroid C-cell tumors , gallbladder disease, low blood sugar, and suicidal ideation.

Contraindications: This medication is not recommended for people with multiple endocrine neoplasia MEN syndrome type 2, history of thyroid cancer or pancreatitis, pregnancy, and current use of certain prescription medications.

It can also be purchased over the counter as the brand Alli. After a medical consultation, a doctor can prescribe orlistat. Certain telehealth services may also provide a prescription for this medication.

How it works: Orlistat works by blocking the activity of certain enzymes used to break down fats in the digestive tract, which helps to reduce the amount of calories you absorb.

Effectiveness: According to a study of 80 people with obesity, those who took orlistat lost an average of They also experienced significant reductions in body mass index BMI , belly fat, and total and LDL bad cholesterol levels.

Side effects: Orlistat often causes digestive issues like loose or oily stools, gas, and frequent bowel movements, making the medication difficult for some people to tolerate.

It could also contribute to nutrient deficiencies, including in fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, or K. Following a low fat diet is typically recommended while taking this medication to help minimize adverse side effects.

Contraindications: chronic malabsorption, cholestasis a type of liver disease , pregnancy, renal impairment, and current use of certain prescription medications.

It requires a prescription from a doctor and is sold under the brand Qsymia. How it works: This medication includes phentermine , a central nervous system stimulant and appetite suppressant with similar mechanisms to amphetamine.

It also includes topiramate , an anticonvulsant that helps reduce appetite and enhance satiety feeling full to promote weight loss. It could also cause increased body temperature, an inability to sweat, and psychiatric or cognitive disturbances. Contraindications: This medication is not recommended for people with glaucoma eye conditions that can lead to blindness , a history of hyperthyroidism, pregnancy, recent use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors, and current use of certain prescription medications.

This medication, sold under the name Contrave, is an oral medication that combines bupropion, an antidepressant, and naltrexone, which is used to manage opioid or alcohol use disorder. A doctor can determine whether Contrave may be a good option for you and then provide a prescription.

Some online services may also prescribe Contrave following a virtual consultation with a healthcare professional. Over 1 year, participants lost an average of 11—22 lb 5—9 kg.

It might also increase heart rate and blood pressure. Contraindications: This medication is not recommended for people with a history of seizures, end-stage renal disease, pregnancy, and current use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors, opioids, or certain other prescription medications.

Setmelanotide, sold as Imcivree, is in a class of medications known as melanocortin 4 MC4 receptor agonists. How it works: People with specific genetic mutations may experience insufficient activation of the MC4 receptor in the brain, which could contribute to obesity.

Setmelanotide works by increasing the activation of this receptor, leading to reduced hunger, decreased calorie intake, and increased metabolism , all of which could promote weight loss.

Participants also experienced a significant reduction in hunger with no serious treatment-related adverse events reported. Another small study in children, adolescents, and adults found that setmelanotide significantly improved quality of life as early as 5 weeks after starting treatment, which could be related to reduced hunger and body weight.

Side effects: Some of the most common side effects of setmelanotide include injection site reactions, hyperpigmentation , nausea, headache, diarrhea, and stomach or back pain. Fatigue, vomiting, and depression have also been reported. Contraindications: This medication is not recommended for people with renal impairment, and those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

There are several anorectics, or appetite suppressants , available. However, phentermine Adipex-P or Lomaira is the most commonly prescribed.

Phentermine is taken orally and requires a prescription from a doctor or other healthcare professional. How it works: These medications reduce appetite by altering levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, which can lead to weight loss.

Effectiveness: One study in 3, people compared the effectiveness of several medications for obesity and found that people taking phentermine lost the highest percentage of body weight over 12 weeks.

Those taking phentermine lost an average of 8. However, keep in mind that these medications are only recommended for short-term use, as you can build up a tolerance after several weeks, resulting in decreased effectiveness. Side effects: Potential side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps.

Other severe side effects have been reported and require immediate medical attention, including shortness of breath, chest pain, and swelling of the lower extremities. Contraindications: This medication is not recommended for people with a history of heart disease, hypertension, hyperthyroidism, glaucoma, diabetes, pregnancy, and certain prescription medications.

Most weight loss medications are approved for adults with obesity or overweight and at least one weight-related condition, such as:.