I hear many different "fat blocker" products advertised for weight loss. Are their claim accurate? Are there any potential health risks to using such products?

A.

Many of the "fat blockers" on the market do indeed block at least some absorption of fat. There are definitely health risks associated with their use. First of all, fat is a necessary nutrient in the body, important for the production of energy, the manufacture of prostaglandins, and as part of many important lipid (fat) compounds in the body. Essential fatty acids are fats that must be obtained from the diet since the body can not manufacture them. Essential fatty acid deficiency is a wide-spread problem and is related to many health problems including allergies, arthritis, autoimmune diseases, breast problems, skin problems, immune disorders, learning disabilities, menstrual problems, menopausal symptoms, mental illness, cardiovascular disease and obesity. Deficiency of essential fatty acids contributes to symptoms like fatigue, dry skin, hair and nails, dry mucous membranes, indigestion, constipation, frequent illnesses, depression, poor memory, and elevated blood pressure. Unfortunately, fat blockers do not distinguish between essential fats and non-essential fats. Use of these products may contribute to or worsen essential fatty acid deficiency by blocking their absorption.

Second, blocking fat absorption can also contribute to deficiencies of the fat soluble vitamins- A, D, E and K. These vitamins are soluble in fat and if fat absorption is blocked, then the absorption of these important vitamins is too. Vitamin A is vital for proper immune system function, healthy skin and mucous membranes and normal vision. Vitamin A deficiency is the leading cause of blindness in developing countries. Vitamin D is vital in the body for optimal calcium absorption and utilization and also has cancer prevention activity. Without adequate vitamin D, normal calcification of bones is reduced and results in decreased bone density and strength. Vitamin E is vital as an antioxidant for protecting cell membranes from damage, deficiency can result in nerve damage, muscle weakness, and anemia, as well as increased risk of heart disease and cancer. Vitamin K is important for proper blood clotting and also in building strong bones.

As you might have guessed, based on the possibility of causing deficiencies of very important nutrients in the body, I don't recommend the use of fat blockers. As recent nutritional work has brought to light, fat intake is probably not the problem in obesity. Rather, the intake of excessive carbohydrates results in increased body fat and disruption of the normal regulation of insulin and blood sugar levels. Elimination of fat from the diet or preventing its absorption may actually increase fat deposition and obesity especially in individuals with abnormal insulin secretion and blood sugar problems like hypoglycemia and diabetes.

As I have said before, the best prescription for weight loss is not the quick fix or the miracle pill, but a sensible healthy diet and exercise.

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