Is the Ally weight loss pill right for you? Will you lose weight without having to change your diet? Is it healthy and what are the side effects? The answers may surprise you.
Alli is the reduced-strength version of orlistat (Xenical), a prescription drug to treat obesity. It’s approved for over-the-counter sale to overweight adults 18 years and older. Alli is meant to be used in conjunction with a low-calorie, low-fat diet and regular exercise.
Alli promotes weight loss by decreasing absorption of fat by the intestines, which reduces the number of calories you absorb. You take Ally with fat containing meals three times a but you can not eat more than 15 grams of fat per day. If you do you may end up with urgent bowel movements, diarrhea and gas.
Alli can help you lose weight but how much is unclear. Tests done on its prescription counterpart, Xenical show a modest 6 lbs more than you could lose through diet and exercise alone.
Alli does have side effects and you may experience these when taken as directed. These side effects can include:
• Gas with an oily anal discharge
• Loose stools or diarrhea
• More frequent bowel movements
• Hard-to-control bowel movements
Alli should not be taken if you:
• Are at a healthy weight
• Are taking cyclosporine
• Have had an organ transplant
• Have problems absorbing food
The drug also may pose risks for anyone who takes blood-thinning medication or has diabetes or thyroid disease.
Most of your weight loss will occur within the first six months. During this time you are supposed to have altered you eating and exercise habits enough that you no longer need the medication. Sadly for many folks they have not and will experience an immediate weight gain when they stop taking the Ally weight loss pill. As a result they continue to take the medication.
The Alli weight loss pill is not meant to be the answer to your dieting problems. There is no substitute for a healthy diet and exercise.