Obesity is becoming an epidemic in America. Statistics show that obesity rates have increased over the last 30 years, sometimes as much as one percent each year [1]. There has been a significant increase in the number of weight loss clinics during this time, increasing at least as fast as the average American waist line.
Weight Loss Clinics
The rapid increase in weight loss clinics indicates that many people are seeking to reduce this trend. Weight loss clinics generally offer weight loss programs that are monitored by doctors. It is important to note the program being monitored by physicians does not necessarily mean patients see a doctor at every visit. In some states, “physician partners are required to be on site supervising the medical staff... a minimum of 10% of the clinic’s operating hours”, according to “Medi-Weightloss plans four new clinics by fall” in the Dallas Business Journal (April 2, 2010).
Phone calls placed to multiple clinics in Florida reveal that many of the programs involve both the use of appetite suppressant medication and the use of B6 and B12 vitamins for weight loss. In many cases, this is in the form of a B12 shot, but could also be sublingual B12 or B6. This raises two major questions. Are B vitamin supplements a safe method of increasing weight loss? Do B6 and B12 vitamins work for weight loss?
Vitamin Supplements B12 and B6 Safety
Vitamin B12 is used in the production of red blood cells, DNA synthesis, and neurological function. It is also involved in the metabolism of fat and protein. The Dietary Supplement Fact Sheet from the Office of Dietary Supplements indicates that excess vitamin B12 intake has not been associated with any adverse reactions.
Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, pyridoxal or pyridoxamine, is an essential vitamin. It is involved in the production of red blood cells and over 100 enzymes, according to the Dietary Supplement Fact Sheet from the Office of Dietary Supplements. In excessive amounts, vitamin B6 can cause temporary nerve damage in the extremities, which is frequently reversible when the medicine is stopped.
Do B6 and B12 Vitamins Work For Weight Loss?
Information on this is largely speculative. Thorough searches of publicly available information reveal no well organized scientific studies regarding the effectiveness of this method. Message boards from users are likely to reveal mixed opinions, some swearing by its efficacy while others indicate no results. It is possible that these shots provide a placebo effect, allowing users to feel like it will help, and contributing to a healthier lifestyle.
Are Vitamin Supplements the Key to a Weight Loss for Idiots Program?
It is well known that the key to losing weight is to reduce calories compared to calories consumed. The most effective long term methods are increased exercise and decreased food intake. For some, the addition of weight loss supplements may provide a placebo effect that will help them to lose weight successfully.
All supplements and diet programs should be discussed with a medical provider before using them. Ultimately, though, quick fix solutions such as appetite suppressants and vitamin supplements are short term solutions. They may provide quick initial results, but are unlikely to change the underlying habits of the person using them, leading to long term relapse of weight gain.
References:
[1] Prevalence and Trends in Obesity Among US Adults, 1999-2008
Katherine M. Flegal, PhD; Margaret D. Carroll, MSPH; Cynthia L. Ogden, PhD; Lester R. Curtin, PhD
JAMA. 2010;303(3):235-241. Published online January 13, 2010 (doi:10.1001/jama.2009.2014).
Erin Toombs - I am a mom of two children under the age of 10. My oldest daughter was identified as "gifted" prior to starting pre-k. I believe my ...
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