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While eating a well-balanced, reduced-calorie diet and exercising regularly are the cornerstones of weight loss, certain drugs can serve as powerful adjuncts. One such drug is phentermine — one of the most popular weight loss drugs in the world. It has been proven effective for short-term weight loss when used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and exercise. However, using phentermine for weight loss is not without risks and side effects. This article explains everything you need to know about phentermine, including its benefits, dosage, and possible side effects. What Is Phentermine?
Phentermine is a prescription weight loss medication. It was approved by the FDA in 1959 for short-term use of up to 12 weeks for people older than 16. In the 1990s, phentermine was combined with other weight loss drugs. This drug combination was commonly called fen-phen. After reports of significant heart problems in users, the FDA pulled the other two drugs used in the treatment — fenfluramine and dexfenfluramine — from the market. Phentermine goes by the brand names Adipex-P, Lomaira, and Suprenza, or you can find it in combination medications for weight loss, such as Qsymia. It’s a controlled substance due to its chemical similarities to the stimulant amphetamine — making it available only with a prescription. Your doctor may prescribe phentermine if you’re obese, meaning that your body mass index (BMI) is greater than or equal to 30. It may also be prescribed if you’re overweight with a BMI greater than or equal to 27 and have at least one weight-related condition, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or type 2 diabetes. SUMMARY Phentermine is an FDA-approved drug intended for weight loss. Its chemical structure is similar to amphetamine, and it’s only available with a prescription. How Does It Work? Phentermine belongs to a class of drugs called “anorectics,” also known as appetite suppressants. Taking phentermine helps suppress your appetite, thereby limiting how many calories you eat. Over time, this can lead to weight loss. While the exact mechanisms behind the appetite-reducing effects of phentermine remain unclear, the drug is thought to act by increasing neurotransmitter levels in your brain. Neurotransmitters are your body’s chemical messengers and include norepinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine. When your levels of these three chemicals increase, your feeling of hunger decreases. However, you may build a tolerance to the appetite-suppressing effects of phentermine within a few weeks. In that case, you should not increase your dose of the drug but stop using it altogether. SUMMARY Phentermine is thought to decrease your appetite by increasing neurotransmitter levels in your brain. Effective for Weight Loss Several clinical studies have proven that phentermine can boost fat loss. The expected average weight loss with phentermine use is 5% of your initial body weight. Yet, over 12 weeks, it can be as high as 10%. This equates to a weight loss of 10–20 pounds (4.5–9 kg) for a 200 pound (90.7 kg) person. In a meta-analysis of six studies, people who took the average dose of 27.5 mg of phentermine for 13 weeks lost an average of 13.9 pounds (6.3 kg) compared to 6.2 pounds (2.8 kg) in placebo groups. While phentermine has been shown to be effective for weight loss, it may work better when combined with topiramate. Topiramate is a drug that has been used on its own to treat seizures but — like phentermine — also has appetite-reducing properties. Topiramate and phentermine is a combination medication sold under the brand name Qsymia. Compared to three other commonly prescribed drugs for weight loss, the combination of phentermine and topiramate was associated with the highest odds of losing at least 5% of the initial body weight. What’s more, research suggests that the phentermine and topiramate combination is the most effective weight loss medication to date — with people achieving an average weight loss of 21.6 pounds (9.8 kg) after taking the maximum dose for one year. In users, this weight loss has translated to a significant decrease in waist circumference, improved insulin sensitivity, and blood sugar control, as well as favorable effects on triglyceride and cholesterol levels. SUMMARY Studies confirm the effectiveness of phentermine for weight loss. What’s more, the effect is even greater when the drug is combined with topiramate. May Be Helpful for Certain Eating Disorders The combination of phentermine and topiramate may help reduce binge eating in people with binge eating disorder (BED) and bulimia nervosa. BED is characterized by eating large amounts of food, often quickly and to the point of discomfort. It’s also associated with a feeling of losing control during the binge, as well as feelings of shame or guilt afterward. Bulimia nervosa involves the same binge-eating behavior as with BED, but includes behaviors, such as self-induced vomiting, in an attempt to compensate for the effects of binge eating. In a small 12-week study in obese or overweight people with BED, the phentermine and topiramate drug combination was associated with significant reductions in weight, BMI, and binge-eating episode frequency. In another 12-week study, people with BED or bulimia nervosa were randomized to receive the drug combination or a placebo. Over 28 days, treatment with the phentermine and topiramate combination decreased the participants’ number of binge-eating days from 16.2 to 4.2. The same results were not observed in the placebo group. By reducing binging episodes, the drug combination may help the estimated 40–80% of people with BED or bulimia nervosa who are overweight or obese lose weight while improving mood and a sense of control with eating. SUMMARY The phentermine and topiramate combination has been shown to reduce binging episodes and weight in people with BED and bulimia nervosa. Dosage and Forms Dosages for phentermine vary depending on its form and concentration. Phentermine Prior to 2016, the available doses of phentermine were 15, 30, and 37.5 mg. However, since it’s recommended that doctors prescribe the lowest effective dose, the FDA approved an 8-mg formulation in 2016, which can be taken up to three times daily. You should avoid taking the last dose too late in the day to prevent insomnia or difficulty falling or staying asleep. Phentermine and Topiramate Phentermine and topiramate — sold under the brand name Qsymia — is a combination medication used for weight loss. This medication is available in four doses, ranging in strength from 3.75 to 15 mg of phentermine and 23 to 92 mg of topiramate. After taking the lowest dose for 14 days, your doctor can choose to progress you to a higher dose. The medication should be discontinued if you don’t lose 5% of your body weight after 12 weeks on the highest daily dose. SUMMARY The dosage of phentermine differs, depending on whether it’s used alone or alongside topiramate. Show more: Side Effects and Precautions Phentermine alone is designed for short-term use only, as there are no long-term studies on its safety. However, the FDA has approved phentermine in combination with topiramate for long-term use, since the dosage of the two ingredients is lower than the maximum doses of the individual drugs. While serious adverse effects are rare, studies report several side effects of the phentermine and topiramate combination. The most commonly reported side effects include:
Phentermine should also not be prescribed in combination with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), a class of medications used to treat depression. Your doctor will determine whether phentermine is appropriate and safe for you. SUMMARY While there are common side effects associated with the use of phentermine, it’s tolerated by most people. However, people with certain conditions and women who are pregnant or nursing should not use phentermine. Healthy Ways to Promote and Maintain Weight Loss While phentermine can be a powerful weight loss aid, the only proven way to shed weight — and to keep it off in the long term — is cultivating healthy lifestyle behaviors. Without making the proper changes, it is likely that you’ll gain back the weight you lost — and possibly more — once you stop taking phentermine. A comprehensive lifestyle change includes:
SUMMARY Lifestyle and behavioral modification are the cornerstones of successful weight loss and maintenance. The Bottom Line Phentermine is a prescription-only appetite suppressant and weight loss pill, approved for short-term use. The combination of phentermine and topiramate appears to be even more effective and tolerable than phentermine alone. Side effects include dry mouth, dizziness, fatigue, irritability, and constipation. The weight loss benefits of phentermine and topiramate also expand to people with BED and bulimia nervosa. While phentermine can be a useful short-term weight loss tool, you must make healthy lifestyle changes for long-term success. Read more: 💬 Further inforamtion: #phentermine_weight_loss #Healthline https://www.pinterest.com/healthline/ Cre: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/phentermine-weight-loss
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The 11 Best Fruits for Weight Loss7/11/2021 Fruit is nature’s ready-made snack packed with vitamins, fiber, and other nutrients that support a healthy diet. Fruit is also generally low in calories and high in fiber, which may help you lose weight. In fact, eating fruit is linked to a lower body weight and a lower risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, cancer, and heart disease. Here are 11 of the best fruits to eat for weight loss. 1. Grapefruit Grapefruit is a cross between a pomelo and an orange and is commonly associated with dieting and weight loss. Half a grapefruit contains just 39 calories but provides 65% of the reference daily intake (RDI) for of vitamin C. Red varieties also provide 28% of the RDI for vitamin A. What’s more, grapefruit has a low glycemic index (GI), which means it releases sugar into your bloodstream more slowly. A low-GI diet may aid weight loss and weight maintenance, though evidence is limited. In a study in 85 obese people, eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice before meals for 12 weeks resulted in a decrease in calorie intake, a 7.1% decrease in body weight, and improved cholesterol levels. Additionally, a recent review found that grapefruit consumption reduced body fat, waist circumference, and blood pressure compared to control groups. While grapefruit can be eaten on its own, it also makes a great addition to salads and other dishes. Summary Grapefruit is very low in calories and high in vitamins A and C. It may be a healthy snack before main meals to help reduce your overall food intake. 2. Apples Apples are low in calories and high in fiber, with 116 calories and 5.4 grams of fiber per large fruit (223 grams). They have also been found to support weight loss. In one study, women were given three apples, three pears, or three oat cookies — with the same calorie value — per day for 10 weeks. The apple group lost 2 pounds (0.91 kg) and the pear group 1.6 pounds (0.84 kg), while the oat group’s weight did not change. Additionally, an observational study in 124,086 individuals determined that people who ate apples lost an average of 1.24 pounds (0.56 kg) per daily serving over a four-year period. Because low-calorie fruits like apples are more filling, you may eat less of other foods during the course of the day. Notably, an apple is almost three times as filling as a chocolate bar. Research shows that apples are best eaten whole — rather than juiced — to reduce hunger and control appetite. That said, two studies link apple juice to reductions in body fat compared to a control drink with the same number of calories. Apple polyphenol extract — made from one of the fruit’s natural compounds — has also been linked to reduced cholesterol levels. Apples can be enjoyed in a variety of ways both cooked and raw. Try adding them to hot and cold cereals, yogurt, stews, and salads, or baking them on their own. Summary Apples are low in calories, high in fiber, and very filling. Studies indicate that they may support weight loss. How to Peel an Apple 3. Berries Berries are low-calorie nutrient powerhouses. For example, a 1/2 cup (74 grams) of blueberries contains just 42 calories but provides 12% of the RDI for vitamin C and manganese, as well as 18% for vitamin K. One cup (152 grams) of strawberries contains under 50 calories and provides 3 grams of dietary fiber, as well as 150% of the RDI for vitamin C and almost 30% for manganese. Berries have also been shown to be filling. One small study found that people given a 65-calorie berry snack ate less food at a subsequent meal than those given candy with the same number of calories. Additionally, eating berries may help decrease cholesterol levels, reduce blood pressure, and lower inflammation, which may be particularly helpful to people who are overweight. Both fresh or frozen berries can be added to cereal or yogurt for breakfast, blended in a healthy smoothie, mixed into baked goods, or tossed in a salad. Summary Berries are low in calories and contain many important vitamins. They also may have positive effects on cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and inflammation. 4. Stone Fruirt Stone fruits, also known as drupes, are a group of seasonal fruits with a fleshy exterior and a stone, or pit, on the inside. They include peaches, nectarines, plums, cherries, and apricots. Stone fruits are low-GI, low-calorie, and rich in nutrients like vitamins C and A — which make them great for people trying to lose weight. For example, one medium peach (150 grams) contains 58 calories, while 1 cup (130 grams) of cherries provides 87 calories, and two small plums (120 grams) or four apricots (140 grams) have just 60 calories. Compared to unhealthy snack foods like chips or cookies, stone fruits are a more nutrient-dense, filling option. Stone fruits can be eaten fresh, chopped up in fruit salads, mixed into a hearty porridge, or even grilled or added to savory dishes like stews. Summary Stone fruits like peaches, nectarines, and plums make for a low-calorie, seasonal snack. They are a good alternative to chips, cookies, or other junk foods. Show more: 5. Passion Fruit Passion fruit, which originates in South America, grows on a beautiful, flowering vine. It has a tough outer rind — purple or yellow in color — with an edible, pulpy seed mass inside. One fruit (18 grams) contains just 17 calories and is a rich source of fiber, vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and potassium. For such a small fruit, passion fruit holds ample dietary fiber. In fact, five of them give 42% of the RDI for fewer than 100 calories. Fiber slows down your digestion, helping you feel fuller for longer and controlling your appetite. Additionally, passion fruit seeds provide piceatannol, a substance linked to reductions in blood pressure and improved insulin sensitivity in overweight men. However, more research is needed. For weight loss, passion fruit is best consumed whole. It can be eaten alone, used as a topping or filling for desserts, or added to drinks. Summary Passion fruit is a low-calorie, high-fiber fruit that may benefit blood pressure and insulin sensitivity, potentially making it ideal for weight loss. 6. Rhubarb Rhubarb is actually a vegetable, but in Europe and North America, it is often prepared like a fruit. While it has only 11 calories per stalk, it still packs almost 1 gram of fiber and almost 20% of the RDI for vitamin K. Additionally, rhubarb fiber may help reduce high cholesterol, which is a common problem for people who struggle with their weight. In a study in 83 people with atherosclerosis — a disease of the arteries — those given 23 mg of dried rhubarb extract per pound of body weight (50 mg per kg) for six months experienced a significant decrease in cholesterol and improved blood vessel function. Rhubarb stalks can be stewed and served with porridge or your favorite cereal. Although it can be used in many ways, including in desserts, it’s best to stick to low-sugar rhubarb dishes when trying to lose weight. Summary Rhubarb, which is low in calories and high in fiber, may aid weight loss and help lower cholesterol. 7. Kiwifruit Kiwifruits are small, brown fruits with bright green or yellow flesh and tiny black seeds.
Very nutrient-dense, kiwis are an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin E, folate, and fiber, and have significant health benefits. In one study, 41 people with prediabetes ate two golden kiwis per day for 12 weeks. They experienced higher vitamin C levels, a reduction in blood pressure, and a 1.2-inch (3.1-cm) reduction in waist circumference. Additional studies note that kiwi can help control blood sugar, improve cholesterol, and support gut health — all additional weight loss benefits. Kiwis have a low GI, so while they do contain sugar, it is released more slowly — resulting in smaller blood sugar spikes. Furthermore, kiwis are rich in dietary fiber. One small, peeled fruit (69 grams) has over 2 grams of fiber, while the skin alone provides 1 extra gram of fiber. Diets high in fiber from fruits and vegetables have been shown to promote weight loss, increase fullness and improve gut health. Kiwifruit is soft, sweet, and delicious when eaten raw, peeled, or unpeeled. It can also be juiced, used in salads, added to your morning cereal, or used in baked goods. Summary Kiwifruits are highly nutritious and provide a range of health benefits. Their high fiber and low calorie content make them ideal for weight loss. 8. Melons Melons are low in calories and have a high water content, which makes them very weight loss friendly. Just 1 cup (150—160 grams) of melon, such as honeydew or watermelon, provides a modest 46—61 calories. Though low in calories, melons are rich in fiber, potassium, and antioxidants, such as vitamin C, beta-carotene, and lycopene. Moreover, consuming fruits with high water content may help you shed extra weight. However, watermelon does have a high GI, so portion control is important. Melons can be enjoyed fresh, cubed, or balled to liven up a fruit salad. They’re also easily blended into fruit smoothies or frozen into fruit popsicles. Summary Melons are very low in calories and have a high water content, which may help you lose weight and keep you hydrated. 9. Oranges Like all citrus fruits, oranges are low in calories while high in vitamin C and fiber. They are also very filling. In fact, oranges are four times more filling than a croissant and twice as filling as a muesli bar. While many people consume orange juice instead of orange slices, studies have found that eating whole fruits — rather than drinking fruit juices — not only results in less hunger and calorie intake but also increased feelings of fullness. Therefore, if you are trying to lose weight, it may be better to eat oranges rather than drink orange juice. The fruit can be eaten alone or added to your favorite salad or dessert. Summary Oranges are high in vitamin C and fiber. What’s more, they can help keep you feeling full. 10. Bananas When trying to lose weight, some people avoid bananas due to their high sugar and calorie content. While bananas are more calorie-dense than many other fruits, they are also more nutrient-dense, supplying potassium, magnesium, manganese, fiber, numerous antioxidants, and vitamins A, B6, and C. Their low to medium GI may help control insulin levels and regulate weight — particularly for people who have diabetes. Additionally, one study illustrated that eating a banana per day reduced both blood sugar and cholesterol in people with high cholesterol. High-quality, nutrient-dense, and low-calorie foods like bananas are vital to any healthy weight loss plan. Bananas can be enjoyed on their own as a convenient on-the-go snack or added either raw or cooked to a wide variety of dishes. Summary Bananas’ ample nutrients and fiber make them an ideal part of a healthy weight loss plan. 11. Avocados Avocados are a fatty, calorie-dense fruit grown in warm climates. Half an avocado (100 grams) contains 160 calories, making it one of the most calorie-dense fruits. The same amount provides 25% of the RDI for vitamin K and 20% for folate. Despite their high calorie and fat content, avocados may promote weight loss. In one study, 61 overweight people ate a diet containing either 200 grams of avocado or 30 grams of other fats (margarine and oils). Both groups experienced significant weight loss, indicating that avocados are a smart choice for those looking to lose weight. Other studies have found that eating avocados can increase feelings of fullness, decrease appetite, and improve cholesterol levels. Additionally, a large study of American eating patterns revealed that people who ate avocados tended to have healthier diets, a lower risk of metabolic syndrome, and lower body weights than people who didn’t eat them. Avocados can be used as a replacement for butter or margarine on bread and toast. You can also add them to salads, smoothies, or dips. Summary People who eat avocados tend to weigh less than people who do not. Despite their high fat content, avocados may help promote weight loss and weight maintenance. The Bottom Line Fruit is an essential part of a healthy diet — and may aid weight loss. Most fruits are low in calories while high in nutrients and fiber, which can boost your fullness. Keep in mind that it’s best to eat fruits whole rather than juiced. What’s more, simply eating fruit is not the key to weight loss. You should also strive for a healthy, whole-foods-based diet alongside physical activity. Read more: 💬 Further inforamtion: #best_weight_loss_fruits #Healthline https://twitter.com/healthline Cre: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/best-weight-loss-fruits
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For a long time, drinking water has been thought to help with weight loss. In fact, 30–59% of US adults who try to lose weight increase their water intake. Many studies show that drinking more water may benefit weight loss and maintenance. We’ve partnered with WW (Weight Watchers Reimagined) to help you understand how drinking water can help you lose weight. Drinking Water Can Make You Burn More Calories Most of the studies listed below looked at the effect of drinking one, 0.5 liter (17 oz) serving of water. Drinking water increases the amount of calories you burn, which is known as resting energy expenditure. In adults, resting energy expenditure has been shown to increase by 24–30% within 10 minutes of drinking water. This lasts at least 60 minutes. Supporting this, one study of overweight and obese children found a 25% increase in resting energy expenditure after drinking cold water. A study of overweight women examined the effects of increasing water intake to over 1 liter (34 oz) per day. They found that over a 12-month period, this resulted in an extra 2 kg (4.4 lbs) of weight loss. Since these women didn’t make any lifestyle changes except to drink more water, these results are very impressive. Additionally, both of these studies indicate that drinking 0.5 liters (17 oz) of water results in an extra 23 calories burned. On a yearly basis, that sums up to roughly 17,000 calories — or over 2 kg (4.4 lbs) of fat. Several other studies have monitored overweight people who drank 1-1.5 liters (34–50 oz) of water daily for a few weeks. They found a significant reduction in weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference and body fat.
These results may be even more impressive when the water is cold. When you drink cold water, your body uses extra calories to warm the water up to body temperature. You can track your water intake through the WW app. Doing so can help you meet your goals while staying hydrated. BOTTOM LINE: Drinking 0.5 liters (17 oz) of water may increase the amount of calories burned for at least an hour. Some studies show that this can lead to modest weight loss. Drinking Water Before Meals Can Reduce Appetite Some people claim that drinking water before a meal reduces appetite. There actually seems to be some truth behind this, but almost exclusively in middle-aged and older adults. Studies of older adults have shown that drinking water before each meal may increase weight loss by 2 kg (4.4 lbs) over a 12-week period. In one study, middle-aged overweight and obese participants who drank water before each meal lost 44% more weight, compared to a group that did not drink more water. Another study also showed that drinking water before breakfast reduced the amount of calories consumed during the meal by 13%. Although this may be very beneficial for middle-aged and older people, studies of younger individuals have not shown the same impressive reduction in calorie intake. BOTTOM LINE: Drinking water before meals may reduce appetite in middle-aged and older individuals. This decreases calorie intake, leading to weight loss. Drinking More Water is Linked to Reduced Calorie Intake and a Lower Risk of Weight Gain Since water is naturally calorie-free, it is generally linked with reduced calorie intake. This is mainly because you then drink water instead of other beverages, which are often high in calories and sugar. Observational studies have shown that people who drink mostly water have up to a 9% (or 200 calories) lower calorie intake, on average. Drinking water may also help prevent long-term weight gain. In general, the average person gains about 1.45 kg (3.2 lbs) every 4 years. This amount may be reduced by:
A recent, school-based study aimed to reduce obesity rates by encouraging children to drink water. They installed water fountains in 17 schools and provided classroom lessons about water consumption for 2nd and 3rd graders. After one school year, the risk of obesity had been reduced by a whopping 31% in the schools where water intake was increased. BOTTOM LINE: Drinking more water may lead to decreased calorie intake and reduce the risk of long-term weight gain and obesity, especially in children. Show more:
How Much Water Should You Drink? Many health authorities recommend drinking eight, 8-oz glasses of water (about 2 liters) per day. However, this number is completely random. As with so many things, water requirements depend entirely on the individual. For example, people who sweat a lot or exercise regularly may need more water than those who are not very active. Older people and breast-feeding mothers also need to monitor their water intake more closely. Keep in mind that you also get water from many foods and beverages, such as coffee, tea, meat, fish, milk, and especially fruits and vegetables. As a good rule of thumb, you should always drink water when you’re thirsty, and drink enough to quench your thirst. If you find you have a headache, are in a bad mood, are constantly hungry or have trouble concentrating, then you may suffer from mild dehydration. Drinking more water may help fix this. Based on the studies, drinking 1-2 liters of water per day should be sufficient to help with weight loss. Here’s how much water you should drink, in different measurements:
Also, it is not recommended to drink too much water either, as it may cause water toxicity. This has even caused death in extreme cases, such as during water drinking contests. BOTTOM LINE: According to the studies, 1–2 liters of water per day is enough to assist with weight loss, especially when consumed before meals. Take Home Message Water can be really helpful for weight loss. It is 100% calorie-free, helps you burn more calories and may even suppress your appetite if consumed before meals. The benefits are even greater when you replace sugary beverages with water. It is a very easy way to cut back on sugar and calories. However, keep in mind that you’re going to have to do a lot more than just drink water if you need to lose a significant amount of weight. Water is just one, very small piece of the puzzle. Mind Over Matter 💬 Further inforamtion: #drinking_water_helps_with_weight_loss #Healthline https://www.facebook.com/healthline/ Cre: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/drinking-water-helps-with-weight-loss
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The 12 Best Foods for Healthy Skin7/11/2021 Nutrition is important for health. An unhealthy diet can damage your metabolism, cause weight gain, and even damage organs, such as your heart and liver.
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