Site Search

"Potential Diet Pill Might Cause More Harm Than Good"

By Adam Kessler

The first thing that I think of when I read about the possible first ever diet pill that could be sold over-the-counter was that someone somewhere was saying “Ka-ching!!” Is this pill really being made for the good of the consumer or is it being made to finally complete the phrase, “Boy whoever makes that pill to lose weight will surely make a boatload of money.” It still has a ways to go before it could be sold over-the-counter, but the thought of that happening, could do more harm than good.

Apparently, people who took this wonder pill lost an average of 6 pounds more than people who took a dummy pill. This research was performed during 6 month clinical trials, so naturally the researchers say that people should only use the pill for 6 months at a time. Okay, problem #1. Who out there thinks that if the people are taking the pill and losing weight that they are going to stop at 6 months? Show of hands please. Keep them raised, I can’t see all of the hands.

This leads to problem #2. The researchers say that the pill’s effects ends once people have stopped using it. The testers showed progressive weight gain after discontinuing use of the pill. That reinforces the statement of, “please only use this pill for 6 months at a time.” Sure, no problem, I will use the pill, lose some weight, then gain it back because the box said to stop after 6 months. Not going to happen. Couldn’t you just see people purchasing this on a weekly basis for long durations of time? I’m sure the “Ka-ching!!” guys do.

The last problem I have with this is that the article I read had a three line paragraph that is almost overlooked in the article. I see it in all these articles that I read about the latest new diet, trend, or pill. That paragraph is this: “The drug helps overweight people slim down only when combined with diet and exercise.” This is the fall-back phrase in case the desired results don’t happen. Because we all know that people who take this pill will watch their diet, will exercise, and will only use it at 6 months a time. (wink, wink)

This is not the answer for healthy and permanent weight loss. They may be able to make this pill to help you lose weight, but it won’t give you a license to eat whatever you want. That pizza will still have high sodium in it to affect your blood pressure. The French fries will still contain saturated fats that lead to heart disease. So unfortunately, it goes back to hard work and determination. Eating right, exercising often is the solution not the inconvenience people make it out to be.

What happens to the body if you do take this pill longer than 6 months? What are the possible side effects of this pill? Does anyone care? You should. I’m not stupid. There are millions of people that are waiting for this pill because they hate to eat right and/or exercise. The pill might get you to lose weight, but it won’t prevent the other horrible diseases and illnesses that still could be prevented with proper nutrition and exercise. You may want to roll the dice on this pill, but if they already recommend good diet and exercise as a side note, why not make it the focal point of your life and you might be surprised of the outcome.

About the Author:

Adam Kessler is President of Fitness Planning Consultants. His company focuses on speed and strength development for athletes as well as teaching people to safely and permanently lose weight. He can be reached at www.fitnessplanning.com