Weight Loss Boards

An Overview of the American Weight Loss Industry

June 11th, 2008

With over two thirds of the United States adult population being obese and/or overweight, the weight loss industry is thriving. A study conducted in 2006 showed that Americans spend about $35 billion on weight loss products every year. With the percentage of overweight Americans increasing steadily over the years, it would be safe to assume that dollar amount from two years ago has risen as well. Having so many products to choose from in the weight loss industry today, it can be quite difficult to choose which method, procedure, or goods to use. In the following paragraphs, we will discuss some of the more popular means of losing those excess pounds.



Diet pills are one of the most popular ways to attempt weight loss. Compared to other methods of losing weight, diet pills are relatively inexpensive, and most promise great, but sometimes unattainable, results. While some of them truly can work for the consumer, many pill brands have not been approved by the FDA, and therefore, can cause more damage on the body than being obese. Many of them cause uncomfortable side effects such as headaches, dizziness, and increased heartbeat. Popular diet pill brands include Hydroxycut, Xenadrine, and Stacker 3.

One of the newest, and only FDA approved over the counter weight loss product is alli. Not just a pill, alli comes in a package that includes guides on eating healthier and exercising. The ingredients in alli specifically target your digestive system, which prevents the unwanted side effects that are commonly felt with other pills. That is not to say the pill is perfect…but when used as directed, it is safer than most other weight loss products.

While some people try to reap the benefits of weight loss pills, others opt for a more lasting method of changing their current lifestyle and eating habits. Commonly referred to as diets, if done correctly, they can have a positive effect on your body, and cause you to eat healthier. Many diets draw out daily meals for you, and some even include exercise routines. Some of the more popular methods of changing your lifestyle include Weight Watchers, the Atkins diet, and the Zone Diet.

When they believe all else has failed, some overweight people choose to have surgical procedures done to remove unwanted weight. The most popular procedures are liposuction and the lap band process. Liposuction is a popular method that can be done on a particular part of the body where the patient wishes to have fat reduced. The second popular procedure, the lap band, is relatively newer. It is comprised of having a band placed around the upper stomach. This creates a small pouch, which in turn causes the patient to eat considerably less amounts of food. As the treatment progresses and the recipient get accustomed to eating less, the band is loosened.

As you can see, Americans nowadays have many options when it comes to losing weight, with even more methods currently being developed. People can choose to seek assistance in diet pills, dieting methods, or surgeries. Until obesity and being overweight start to decline, the US weight loss industry will continue to flourish.

Entry Filed under: Weight Loss Articles