ARE THEY RED PILLS OR SOME SCIENCE FICTION.

Fashion models in   
1920.         
 

           The scientific approach in health and fitness as evolved over the years. Dating back to 1920s when caloric restriction had began as a measure of catalyzing weight loss. Models and fashionistas embraced it as a means of staying in shape. Obesity being the primary focus of our discussion wasn't really a problem as it is nowadays. In 2022, the WHO statistics showed that 1 out of 8 people in the world are obese. It further stated that the current obesity crisis has double since 1990.


This has resulted in multiple mechanism to aid in controlling the crisis. The old traditional ways of losing weight and staying healthy is seen to be outweighed by the new mechanisms which I'll refer to as "The Red Pill" mechanisms. The question that lingers in most people's minds is, do they really work or it's just a fallacy?

What are some of these "Red Pill" mechanisms? 

a) Ozempic.
Most of us have probably come across this word either online or through word of mouth. It's perceived to have some miraculous powers that can get raid of excess weight in a split of a second but is it true?

Ozempic, generically known as semaglutide is ideally meant for type 2 diabetic patients. It's an injectable prescription where the patient is required to have the dose once a week. It lowers blood sugar levels by helping the pancreases produce more insulin. Surprisingly, weight loss is just but part of its side effects. This is attributed to its capability of reducing the rate at which food goes down the digestive tract hence keeping the individual full for a longer period. Its ability to control sugar levels, helps prevent binging and cravings which can easily lead to obesity.
It hasn't been credited as a weight loss remedy but most people including celebrities have been hooked to it. Ideally, it's presumed to take 30-56 weeks for the weight loss effect to take charge fully. It comes with side effects but doctors are highly recommending its incorporation with proper dieting and exercising for sustainable results.

b) Green tea.
It's among the oldest beverages in the world having been discovered around 2737BC. This was when the Chinese emperor drunk water that had boiled with a leaf inside. Since then it became popular among the Asian community spreading to the rest of the world. Recently, the hype for green tea as a remedy for weight loss has been skyrocketing. Brands have been making fortunes out of these but does it really work?

Green tea is composed to 3 key ingredients that have some relations with the this whole concept. Caffeine is one of them which as we know has some stimulation effects and boost metabolism. Catechins highly found in matcha green tea has been found to increase metabolism and overall health. Lastly, theanine which is an amino acid found in plants has the capacity to increase  relaxation and control the stimulation effect. 
Looking deeply into their required amounts per cup to help boost weight/fat loss, the amounts seem way below average. This translate to more per cup consumption to experience little to no fat loss reaction. In a weight/fat loss perspective, there are other sustainable ways of going about it. Green tea might help with other health benefits but weight loss isn't really a priority.

c) Detox and extreme diets.
 

"If you drink this smoothie or quite carbs for 30 days you will lose weight." Quite common words used on social media nowadays but does it really work?
 Most of these ideologies falls under these diets, which utilizes dietary interventions to detox and lose weight. From a weight loss perspective, it's a short term occurrence as a result of either drastic caloric reduction, loss of water or fecal reduction in the system. It might be a good kickstart if the individual is willing to adopt a different lifestyle after attaining results for sustainability. The safest way of going about it is seeking approval from a credited medical personnel.
All these isn't necessary for the body has natural ways of detoxing itself. Speaking of weight loss, there are other reliable and sustainable ways of executing it. The problem comes in when guys perceive these as magic pills to getting that dream body.

d) Gastric balloon.
It shares the same principle as being on a calorie deficit for they all aim at preventing excess consumption leading to weight gain. Gastric balloon is a silicon balloon placed temporarily for 6-12 month in the stomach to control food intake. It first came to light in 1985 as a way of managing obesity by an American called Garren Edwards but the FDA disapproved it in 1988. In 2015 it was then approved and has been in existence ever since.

Results take place within a few weeks depending on the individual. Side effects can take place but regular medical check up should help in this. The local starting price is ksh350,000 onwards. Most of our local celebrities have undergone it and results don't lie.
An alternative to this is taking care of one's hormonal balance for it has a great influence in matters concerning body composition. Being in a calorie deficit and prioritization of certain macros. To complement this, having a proper workout regimen and being more physically active. The results might take longer but it's more sustainable and pocket friendly.

e) Fat burners.
As claimed by most supplement companies, they are 5 key ingredients found in most of them. Lack of FDA regulation in the approval process makes it a claim. The five ingredients are: caffeine, green tea extract(EGCG), L-carnitine, yohimbine and cayenne paper extract. Essentially, they all simultaneously suppress hunger and create stimulation to the brain. Do they really work?

Ideally, they are referred to as Thermogenics which are meant to stimulate metabolism and boost heat in the body. A temperature increase in the body will result in more caloric burn.  Stimulation of the nervous system will result in slight increase of the resting heart rate(RHR). This literally means an increase in oxygen intake which is a catalyst in burning fat. 
Taking them with no exercise regimen in place and not being on a calorie deficit won't solve the issue. Some specialists do advice that they should be taken on a particular period of this phase. As soon as the side effects of being in a deficit creeps in, it's ideal to take the fat burners. This will help suppress the "starvation" type of feeling and keep the individual on track towards the goal.



    As seen, there is no direct answer to most of these mechanisms. The best answer can be based on trial and error as most of the insights are highlighted. Some are based on scientific and medical research but before any attempt it's best to consult a credited professional.







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