For those who seek a quick and easy solution to weight loss, it is natural to gravitate toward weight loss dietary supplements. But what exactly are weight loss dietary supplements? Are they safe and healthy for you to use? Will they really be effective? Or will they be counter-productive and/or a total waste of money?

Some people use weight loss dietary supplements to enhance their exercise and diet regimens. These supplements are a blend of various vitamins, amino acids and minerals. Some supplements also contain herbs. Remember to seek your doctor's advice before using any supplements.

Caution should be used when deciding whether or not to take dietary weight loss supplements because they are not FDA approved. They do not have to meet the rigorous standards that other medications must comply with. The FDA can force companies to remove a product from the market if evidence is found showing that the product is not fit for human consumption.

Ephedra was a highly popular weight loss dietary supplement that was discontinued. This was because it was proven to cause seizures, increase blood pressure, worsen depression, and was linked to chronic headaches and even death. The label on these pills may not accurately reflect their ingredients, since the FDA does not regulate these pills.

Ever since ephedra was recalled from the market, bitter orange has been touted as being safe although its effectiveness has been unproven. Its effects on the body may be similar to those of ephedra. Bitter orange as a weight loss dietary supplement has not yet been recalled, although it has been shown to be unsafe and unhealthy.

Guar gum and chitosan are two weight loss dietary supplements that have proven to have no effect on weight loss. Using either of these products has been discouraged. Because there have been no tests or studies regarding the long term effect, little is known at this time. It is known, however, that neither has proven effective in either appetite suppression or helping with weight loss.

When combined with proper diet and increased exercise, green tea and St. John's Wart have both been shown to assist in weight loss. Both weight loss dietary supplements help to control appetite and use more calories, which in turn help people lose weight. Green tea is available in various forms, including pills, patches and, of course, tea.