A recent  study challenged some of the concepts behind the diet-and-obesity link and suggests that meal-size  - more than total calorie intake or feeding frequency - is a key factor in the development of obesity.  (more…)

Whole fruits and vegetables are the best sources of insoluble fiber.

It’s already been well-established that increasing dietary fiber has all kinds of benefits for you; lower cholesterol, lower risk of disease, better elimination and detoxification and even better weight management. And it’s also pretty well-established  that most people don’t get enough dietary fiber in the first place.  So it’s always been easy to make a case for fiber supplements, since they’re so inexpensive, safe and easy-to-use.

But there are different types of fiber, and they  have different effects and benefits. So you want to make sure you’re using the right kind of fiber supplement for your situation. If you’re using or considering using fiber for weight management,  there’s new information that points to a crucial difference between the type of fiber and whether it promotes weight loss or weight gain. It’s good food-for-thought for anyone trying to lean up and looking for safe, effective and non-stimulant options.

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The EndoBarrier lines the intestine preventing absorption of food calories.

Reducing calorie consumption is a proven way to lose weight, but people aren’t always disciplined enough to maintain a reduced calorie diet on their own. That accounts for some of the success and popularity of gastric bypass and gastric band surgeries, both of which reduce the quantity of calories absorbed.  But since both procedures carry considerable risks, there’s been strong interest in developing effective alternatives that are less dangerous to the patient.

Makers of a new device called the EndoBarrier say that’s just what they’ve accomplished.  (more…)

Some people need to avoid stimulants......

Dear AllStarHealth.com

I’m a 55 y.o. woman on (hypertension drug) for my high blood pressure and need to lose about 25-30 pounds. I joined a gym last November and am exercising as much as I can, I’m trying to eat right, too but it’s so hard to lose weight at my age.  I sure could use some help. I can’t have any caffeine or stimulants, so most of the diet pills are off-limits. What are my best options in terms of supplements I ‘can’ use?

Thanks for any help,

Freida J.

Ohiopyle, PA

Dear Freida,

There are a few types of supplements that might help.  Keep in mind that (more…)

Appetite suppressants can help you feel satisfied with less food. But, please, eat something.

Let’s take another look at the concept of appetite suppression and appetite suppressant supplements. They’ve both been around a long time. But is that a good strategy for everyone trying to lose weight, or just certain people? And do any of the products work?

(more…)

Egg yolks, soybeans and brains: 3 delicious sources of dietary lecithin

Dear AllStarHealth.com,

Two friends and I are trying to win an office bet by losing 10 lbs each before 3 other coworkers do. At our meeting last night, Sheila said she had read or heard lecithin is really good for weight loss, something about it breaks up fat or fat cells?  I hadn’t heard of it before, but I’d like to order some today if there’s anything to that. Is there?

Thanks

Denise F.

Culver City, CA (more…)

Q: Dear AllStarHealth.com,

My husband and I have decided to start doing something about our weight now before the holidays add another 10+ lbs. But we’re confused by all the options, and products and to-good-to-be-true claims. What do you think are your best weight-loss products?

A: There are so many types of weight loss products available now, that you’d really have to be more specific before we could make specific product recommendations.  To help you sort it out, here’s a quick overview of the different types of weight-loss supplements we sell. (more…)