Alli® Is Not Your Ally

After hearing a lot of talk regarding the new over the counter weight-loss pill, Alli®, we have decided to address one the pill's negative side effects: Vitamin Deficiency.

To understand the risks involved in taking Alli®, one must first understand how it works. Alli® is simply a lesser amount of the prescription weight-loss drug Orlistat (trade name Xenical®). Like Orlistat, Alli® works by inhibiting the action of lipase, an enzyme needed to break down fats so that they may be absorbed through the gut wall. With the inhibition of this enzyme in the intestinal tract, unabsorbed fat moves through the gastrointestinal tract and is eliminated in a bowel movement. Weight-loss occurs through this action because the body never has the opportunity to process the calories contained in the unabsorbed fat.

In addition to decreasing fat absorbtion, research has shown that Alli® also decreases the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins including beta-carotone and vitamins A, D, E, and K. Beta-carotene and vitamin E are major anti-oxidants in the body, while vitamin K is needed for proper blood clotting functions. Vitamin D is one of the most widely researched vitamins at this moment in history, due to its major implecations in reducing the 4 major cancers in the United States: breast, colon, skin, and prostate. Additionally, Vitamin D has been shown to play a major role in increasing bone density.

From a naturopathic perspective, many illnesses are created or exacerbated by vitamin deficiencies. Getting adequate amounts of all vitamins and minerals on a daily basis is a big enough challenge with our American diets, and consuming drugs like Alli® that inhibit their absorption is not something ALETRIS advocates.

The contents of this blog, including text, graphics, images and other material, are for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please seek the counsel of an ALETRIS physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment.