As mentioned in the press over the last few months, Orlistat (in it many forms such as Alli, Xenical, etc) is set to become one of the best selling drug treatments of all time. Available in reduced dosages over the counter and in stronger form on prescription, the treatment is sure to touch the lives of many, with obesity one of the major worries for health authorities around the world. However, before understanding how to get the best from Orlistat, it is vital to understand how it works. Orlistat - The Simple Process

In essence when you digest food, it is processed in your intestine where the various elements are broken down and absorbed into your body. One such process involves the production of enzymes which convert the fatty content from your diet into fatty acids. These fatty acids are absorbed into the body, and stored as fat offering protection and “insulation” to the body. In obese sufferers this process is out of balance and more fatty content remains than is healthy, leading to a whole variety of health issues. This is where Orlistat comes in.

Orlistat physically reduces the natural production of these enzymes which breakdown and absorb the fatty content of digested food. Immediately there is a reduction of 30% in the amount of fatty acids absorbed into the body, and the fatty content which is not processed is passed straight through the body. This is where there are some issues about balancing the users diet, ensuring that the bodies natural requirements are covered and any possible side effects of Orlistat are minimised. This is done by subtle changes in dietary intake and the users exercise regime.

Orlistat - Side Effects

The main side effects of Orlistat relate to the disposal of significant amounts of unprocessed fat content from the users diet. While these are excreted in the natural way, the increase in unprocessed fatty content can have an impact on areas including :-

* loose and oily stools. * increased flatulence. * unexpected and sudden bowel movements.

While uncomfortable, these side effects have no serious consequences.

Orlistat - Recommended Dietary And Exercise Regime Changes

In order to reduce the side effects of Orlistat it is highly advisable that the user reduces their fat content intake to something in the region of 15g per meal. This will ensure that there is less excess fat content to pass through the body, thereby reducing the impact on the bowel conditions mentioned above.

A traditional low fat diet may include the likes of :-

* low fat cheeses * oven baked chips / wedges, rather than the traditional oil fried variety. * reduced fat creams and yoghurts. * increased fish intake. * low fat breads. * skimmed milk * baked crisps. * fruit. * vegetables.

In summary it is essential that users of Orlistat take careful note of the fat content in any food which they eat, and try to keep this as low as possible. It is strongly recommended that people taking Orlistat should also add vitamins A, D, E, K and beta-carotene to their diet to be taken once a day (in tablet form), 2 hours prior to taking the drug. This helps to assist with the natural balance of chemicals and nutrients in the body, again helping to reduce the side effects of Orlistat.

It is also strongly recommended that obesity suffers should increase their exercise regime in tandem with taking Orlistat and changing their dietary habits. All of these elements of change will ensure that weight loss is not reversed when the treatment is finished, and the body becomes used to the new range of eating and exercise habits.

Conclusion

While many see Orlistat as the answer to all weight control problems, it is essential that users also seriously consider a change in their lifestyles, ensuring that they do not get into the same situation again. Treatments such as Orlistat do, and will continue to have a major impact no matter how long the treatment lasts, but it is essential that sufferers consider a serious mind change in their lives to improve their overall health and well being.