805: Diet Pills and Supplements | Skeptical Sunday

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Episode Highlights
Effectiveness
Diet pills often promise quick and easy weight loss, but their effectiveness is questionable. shares his personal experience, noting that while initial results can be promising, the body eventually adapts, reducing the effectiveness of these pills 1. adds that fat blockers, for example, only result in minimal weight loss over extended periods 2.
Side Effects
The side effects of diet pills can be severe and sometimes life-threatening. explains that drugs like Wegovy can cause thyroid tumors, nausea, and even depression with suicidal thoughts 3. highlights that many weight loss pills can lead to nutrient deficiencies and other health issues 4.
Regulation
The regulatory landscape for diet pills is alarmingly lax. points out that many supplements are only FDA compliant, not FDA approved, misleading consumers about their safety 5. emphasizes that the FDA can only intervene after multiple health incidents have been reported, making it a reactive rather than proactive regulatory body 6.
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