Many popular over-the-counter diet pills claim to have “fat binding” capabilities. These drugs work by linking fats from dietary consumption while preventing their digestion and absorption in the body. While fat binder pills are proven to be effective for some consumers, they can become potentially ineffective and harmful after approximately 6 months of use.
Benefits of Fat Binders
According to research and consumer reviews, fat binders can potentially lead to the following positive benefits:
- Often claimed to be “fat magnets”
- Able to lower cholesterol
- Contribute to overall weight loss
- Most ingredients are natural
- Decreases fat absorption from diet
- Potential Negatives of Fat Binders
Not all fat binders have been approved by the FDA. Studies have been conducted to analyze the connections between weight loss and fat binding, but there are currently no independent clinical studies that prove this type of formula is effective. Paired with this, while most supplements and/or pills have undergone various types of clinical trials, potential side effects may still occur, such as:
- Loose Stools
- Oily Stools
- Constipation
- Increased Flatulence
- Popular Fat Binding Drugs
While there are a variety of fat binding drugs available, some of the most popular options are Proactol, Chitosan, and Absorbitol. All three of these options bind fat and release the un-stored dietary excess through the body’s natural waste-emptying process. Furthermore, all three pills claim to provide the following benefits:
- Binds dietary fat
- Reduces food cravings
- Reduces excess body weight
- Controls the amount of fat a body can absorb
- Decreases fat intake
Proactol
Proactol is a popular fat binding drug used to control obesity. Its primary ingredient is a natural fiber derived from dehydrated leaves and the cactus Opuntia Ficus. This pill works by attacking ingested fats inside the stomach, immediately binding them, while allowing them to pass through the intestines without being absorbed. Clinical studies show that Proactol is the first 100% vegetable, effective, and guaranteed fat blocking supplement. Also, further studies report that Proactol may bind up to 28% of dietary fat, preventing this percentage of fat storage in the body.
Chitosan
Chitosan is a product derived from chitin, which is found on the exoskeletons of crustaceans, such as crab and other shellfish. Available in capsule or powder form, Chitosan claims to “soak up fats” by binding fats while preventing absorption. Since this pill contains a 100% natural fiber, there are no reports of serious side effects.
Absorbitol
Absorbitol is similar to Chitosan, as it is a fat binder that also absorbs fat in the body using a fiber-like substance made from Chitosan. With Absorbitol, the chitosan component carries a positive magnetic charge, while fat molecules carry a positive charge.
