What You Should Know About Diet Aides And Certain Diet Tactics / Question
Published: July 19, 2003
Dear TeenHealthFX,
Well, I dunno?I myself am a pretty slim person. the thing is, I have a pretty chubby face in the cheek area, and in the forehead area. its not THAT bad, but I know I would look a lot better without it so chubby looking. I'm seriously considering taking "Hydroxycut" a weight loss pill that is supposed to only remove fat and keep the muscle. hopefully that will work. have anything to comment on this? Thanks.
Signed: Considering Hydroxycut
Dear Considering Hydroxycut,
You cannot spot reduce or selectively lose weight on any part of your body with or without the aide of any drug or supplement. The "chubbiness" that you refer to on your face may very well disappear on its own. Our bodies are constantly undergoing change and interfering with its natural processes can be harmful. Eating healthy and exercising are the best ways to lose weight safely and feel good about you.
Supplements like Hydroxycut (see our answer to Alright To Take Hydroxycut? sell fast results in flashy ads that can be misleading if you do not read the fine print ("results not typical" and "can be achieved by eating healthy and exercising regularly"). Similar products to Hydroxycut can be dangerous if taken by young adults who are still growing. The FDA has not approved most of these products and the lack of regulation provides no safeguard for consumers. Moreover, these products often contain ephedrine, derived from the ephedra plant, which increases your metabolism and suppresses your appetite. Products containing ephedrine can be very dangerous because ephedrine increases heart rate, blood pressure and poses danger for those who may be at risk for mental illness. Beware of ephedrine-free products; they often contain ingredients similar to ephedrine, which can be equally as dangerous.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
People with manic symptoms and Bipolar Disorder II are at a significant risk of later developing an alcohol abuse or dependence problem.
