We’ve all heard tales of the ‘diet pills’ that were popular a generation ago. These prescription pills were essentially forms of ‘speed,’ a drug also available on the streets. While these pills did help people shed pounds, the cost was steep. Many individuals became addicted, while others consumed them in excessive quantities, damaging their health.
Today, these types of diet pills still exist but are far less commonly prescribed or used. People have become more conscious of the importance of good health and are seeking natural approaches. Nonetheless, weight loss remains a concern, and many individuals are searching for an easy way to achieve it—a shortcut. This is where natural medicine comes into play.
Natural, naturopathic, or herbal medicine has existed for centuries, predating Western medicine and modern pharmaceuticals. In recent times, it has experienced a revival, with people disillusioned by the mainstream medical system turning to this older form of medicine, which relies on natural substances like herbs and vitamins.
This shift is evident by perusing the shelves of your local drugstore, where you’ll likely find nearly as many herbal medicines as conventional ones. Some doctors are also starting to acknowledge the role of herbal and natural medicine, even if they don’t wholeheartedly endorse it. Many concede that natural medicine does no harm, at the very least.
When seeking a quick solution to weight issues, natural or herbal diet pills may seem appealing. They do have their merits. Unlike the harsh pharmaceutical diet pills of the past, herbal diet pills are not speed, and they work in entirely different ways. For instance, some natural diet pills function as ‘glucophages,’ helping to regulate excess glucose in your system after meals. Excess glucose is believed by some to contribute to weight gain and can lead to conditions like diabetes. Glucophage can be effective in reducing excess glucose intake if consumed in excess.
However, this approach may not work for everyone and could even backfire, leading to overeating. Results with this type of herbal remedy can be inconsistent, as it may work better for some individuals than others. Nonetheless, some have experienced positive outcomes with glucophage.
Other herbal diet pills act as appetite suppressants, reducing your desire to eat. While they are less potent than pharmaceutical counterparts, they are also less harmful.
There are also herbal supplements designed to detoxify the body. Some individuals opt for a cleanse once or twice a year, often in early spring. While the supplements used in cleansing are not diet pills per se, weight loss often occurs as a result. Moreover, it may become easier to shed pounds following a cleanse, as it can help break bad eating habits.
The diet pills of the seventies may not have been an ideal solution, except in extreme cases. There are better ways to achieve weight loss. However, it’s essential not to generalize and dismiss all diet pills. Take the time to explore the new types of herbal diet supplements available today.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational and informational purposes only and is not presented by a medical practitioner. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read. Natural and dietary supplements are not FDA approved and must be accompanied by a disclaimer stating that the product has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.