| Xenical
vs. Chitosan: Where previous weight loss drugs
had stimulatory or brain altering effects, Orlistat (Xenical)
operates strictly in the digestive tract. It acts as a lipase inhibitor rather
than an appetite suppressant by preventing enzymes in the gastrointestinal tract
from breaking down fat. Thus, fat cannot pass through the tiny holes in the intestinal
lining and be absorbed.
Chitosan,
on the other hand, doesn't affect digestive enzymes like Xenical. Instead, it
attracts fat molecules and causes them to clump together before they're metabolized;
trapping the fat in "clumps" too large for absorption. Potential
Side Effects: Whenever you block the absorption
of fat, there are bound to be some discomforts and risks. First of all, essential
vitamins such as A, D, E, and K are all "fat soluble" vitamins. This means they're
carried, along with fat, into the bloodstream. If fat absorption is limited, you
can restrict the absorption of these essential micronutrients. Of course, with
proper supplementation this problem can be remedied and a daily multivitamin if
often recommended during the use of these products. Unlike
Chitosan, Xenical may also have some other "uncomfortable" side effects.
These generally occur early in treatment, particularly after meals containing
higher amounts of fat than recommended. These symptoms are usually temporary and
lessen or disappear as you continue treatment. They may include:
- oily spotting;
-
oily or fatty stools;
- orange or brown colored
oil in your stool;
- gas with discharge, or
an oily discharge;
- an urgent need to go
to the bathroom;
- an inability to control
bowel movements, or;
- an increased number
of bowel movements.
PLEASE
NOTE: While Chitosan may not include the same uncomfortable side effects as
Xenical, studies have shown that Xenical users achieve an average weight loss
of 10% in body weight after the first year. Studies are also reporting that the
drug may delay or prevent the onset type 2 diabetes, improve cholesterol levels,
and reduce blood pressure. No clinical studies have proven the effectiveness of
Chitosan on weight loss!
For MORE INFORMATION
see: Xenical or Chitosan
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list of OTC Weight Loss Pills >
| 
Fat
blockers come in both prescription (
