Alternative treatments for weight loss: A critical review

David B. Allison; Kevin R. Fontaine; Stanley Heshka; Janet L. Mentore; Steven B. Heymsfield

doi:10.1080/20014091091661

Alternative treatments for weight loss: A critical review

David B. Allison, Kevin R. Fontaine, Stanley Heshka, Janet L. Mentore, Steven B. Heymsfield

Research output: Contribution to journal › Article › peer-review

Abstract

"Nontraditional" or "alternative" treatments are extremely popular, especially with respect to obesity and body composition. Although such treatments are widely used, it is not clear that these are supported by the existing data in the peer-reviewed literature. Herein, we review the data on 18 methods/products advocated as potential anti-obesity/fat-reducing agents. We have found that none have been convincingly demonstrated to be safe and effective in two or more peer-reviewed publications of randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trials conducted by at least two independent laboratories. Nevertheless, some have plausible mechanisms of action and encouraging preliminary data that are sufficiently provocative to merit further research.

Original language	English (US)
Pages (from-to)	1-28
Number of pages	28
Journal	Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition
Volume	41
Issue number	1
DOIs	https://doi.org/10.1080/20014091091661
State	Published - 2001
Externally published	Yes

Keywords

Body composition
Herbal medicines
Nutritional supplements
Weight loss

ASJC Scopus subject areas

Medicine (miscellaneous)
Food Science

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