Lifestyle interventions are the best way to lose weight

2/8/2012

There are many anti-obesity drugs on the market, and some people may be wondering if these pills are effective. According to researchers from the University of Leicester, these drugs, coupled with lifestyle advice such as the kind provided by nurse practitioners at an onsite clinic, can help people lose weight.

The scientists came to their conclusion after reviewing 94 studies of more than 24,000 individuals. While researchers found that lifestyle advice alone can be effective in helping people lose weight, the best results came when counseling was coupled with anti-obesity drugs.

However, the scientists added that these pills can come with side effects. In fact, two of the drugs used in the studies, called sibutramine and rimonbant, had to be withdrawn from the market due to potentially dangerous adverse reactions.

"Nevertheless, it is reassuring to note that lifestyle interventions (diet and exercise) were also effective, especially in people with diabetes, at reducing weight in our study. Lifestyle interventions should therefore be promoted for weight reduction as they also have many other benefits," said researcher Kamlesh Khunti.

Employee wellness programs can help people make the lifestyle changes they need to become healthy.

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