Alli is a non-prescription, FDA approved diet pill that is very similar to orlistat (Xenical). It simply reduces the body’s amount of fat absorption. Alli has come up with a weight loss program to go along with the diet pill and is appropriate for obese patients 18 years and older.
Mechanisms of Action
Lipase is an enzyme found in the digestive tract to help break down dietary fat into smaller components. Alli inhibits lipase which prevents the fat breakdown, thereby decreasing absorption of fat within your body. The undigested fat continues through the digestive system and is eliminated through bowel movements. By absorbing less fat, your body will take in fewer calories.
Alli is most effective when taken with fat-containing meals up to three times a day. It is recommended that each meal does not contain more than 15 grams.
Consumers do not lose a significant amount of weight with Alli. It is probably just as effective to refrain from eating fatty foods. However, it is an excellent supplement for consistent diet and exercise. Most of the clinical studies and findings are based on Alli’s counterpart orlistat. From these studies, the average consumer lost 6 more pounds compared to diet and exercise alone.
Most weight loss occurs within the first six months. Many consumers lose weight from Alli and when they stop taking it, they regain the weight they had loss. To keep the weight off, most people continue taking the medications indefinitely with the recommended diet plan.
Alli is not safe to take if you
Because Alli decreases the absorption of fat, fat soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) will be diminished as well. It is necessary to take vitamin supplements to avoid potential nutrient deficiencies.
Alli is an FDA approved diet pill that can be obtained without a prescription. It is the reduced-strength version of orlistat (Xenical). It contains an effective inhibitor of lipase, an enzyme necessary for the breakdown and absorption of fat. Consumers lose weight by taking in less fat and calories. It is most effective when supplemented with regular diet and exercise. Alli is not a strong diet pill and people should not expect to lose a significant amount of weight. There are a handful of unwanted gastrointestinal side effects.