Herbalists have shifted from outcasts to contributors in integrative care. Learn where plant medicines have evidence, when to be cautious, and how to work safely with trained practitioners.
Prescription weight-loss drugs have expanded since 2006, offering several FDA-approved options for chronic management, while over-the-counter diet supplements remain largely unregulated and often unsupported by evidence. Medications can help but work best when combined with lifestyle changes and medical oversight.
Supplements can help fill predictable nutrient shortfalls caused by modern diets, life stages, or absorption issues, but they are not a substitute for a balanced diet and should be chosen with attention to quality and safety.
Herbal weight-loss pills may offer modest benefits for some ingredients, but safety, inconsistent quality, and limited effectiveness mean they should be used cautiously and only alongside diet, exercise, and medical advice.