Do Exercise Weight Loss Supplements Really Work? Experts Weigh In
Do exercise weight loss supplements really work? The answer to this question has been a topic of debate for years. While many people swear by them and claim to have achieved significant weight loss results, others remain skeptical about the effectiveness of such supplements.
To get a better understanding of whether these supplements really work, experts in the field have weighed in and shared their insights. Here are some of the things they have to say.
1. Supplements can aid weight loss, but they aren’t magical.
According to Dr. Spencer Nadolsky, a board-certified obesity medicine physician, supplements can be helpful in aiding weight loss, but they aren’t the “magic pill” many people believe them to be.
“Many supplements have some evidence behind them, but they’re just small pieces of a puzzle that also includes a healthy diet and regular exercise,” he says. “Don’t expect a supplement to do the work for you.”
2. Some supplements may have dangerous side effects.
Dr. Scott Kahan, Director of the National Center for Weight and Wellness, warns that some supplements can have dangerous side effects and may even be illegal.
“Some supplements, like ephedra, have been banned by the FDA because they’ve been linked to heart attacks, strokes, and other serious health problems,” he says. “Even supplements that are legal and widely available can have side effects like nausea, diarrhea, and stomach cramps.”
3. The real key to weight loss is a healthy lifestyle.
Ultimately, the experts agree that the real key to weight loss is a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet and regular exercise.
“Supplements can be helpful, but they can’t replace a healthy diet and regular exercise,” says Dr. Nadolsky. “If you’re looking to lose weight, focus on making sustainable lifestyle changes that you can stick to over the long-term.”
In conclusion, while exercise weight loss supplements may help aid in weight loss, they are not a magic solution. To achieve long-term success, one must adopt a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise and a balanced diet. Potential users are advised to consult with their healthcare provider before taking any supplements to ensure they are safe and effective.