It is hard to have missed the launch of the new diet pill, Alli, this week as there has been a lot of media coverage about it. This is hardly surprising given the alarming rising rates of obesity in the country. But can losing weight be as simple as taking a pill?
Alli works by inhibiting fat absorption and is known to produce a number of unpleasant side effects, which can include gas, diarrhoea and loss of control of bowel movements. That alone may be quite embarrassing, but Alli also produces other less obvious side effects, such as inhibiting the absorption of vitamins D and E (these vitamins are fat soluble and need fat to be present for absorption). Alli can also block the absorption of essential fats, which are very important for the health of the cardiovascular system and brain function, to name just two important functions.
In my opinion, losing weight, and more importantly keeping weight off, is best achieved by eating a healthy, low glycaemic (GI) diet, having sensible portion sizes and taking regular exercise. Diets high in sugar and white processed carbohydrates are the underlying reason for a lot of weight gain in this country. In these instances, changing to a low GI diet stabalises blood sugar levels, which reduces feelings of hunger and cravings, meaning you can eat satisfying meals and feel full for longer.
Try these simple food swaps today and see for yourself:
· Eat a no-added sugar breakfast cereal, preferably based on oats
· Buy wholemeal bread instead of white
· Use whole grain brown rice and quinoa in place of white rice
· Enjoy wholewheat pasta and noodles
· Reduce potatoes, but increase other vegetables
· Avoid all sugary foods and processed, white carbohydrates
To me this seems so much more enjoyable and satisfying than eating a diet pill……and you don’t need to worry about unpleasant side effects and leaving the house!
