Alli linked to colon cancer
Since Alli was first launched as an over-the-counter non prescription pill in June 2007, there has been plenty of speculation over its possible health risks and dangers.
Having undergone no long-term studies into the effects it can have in humans, non-profit group Public Citizens found in their own independent study that Alli diet pills can contribute to the creation of pre-cancerous lesions in the colons of mice.
Whilst it was not inclusive whether or not these pre-cancerous lesions led to colon cancer; the fact that everyone over 50 is recommended to have a colonoscopy to remove such lesions is proof that taking Alli comes with many risks.
What is Alli? How does it work?
Recognised as the half strength form of Xenical, Alli works by reducing the amount of fat that is absorbed into the body. In a study performed by the UK College of Medicine Metabolic Research Group they found when taken 3 times a day over a 16 week period, participants were able to lose 5% of their initial body weight (7-15lbs).
The only ‘condition’ to achieving successful weight loss with this supplement was that participants had to follow a strictly low-fat diet of 15g of fat per meal in order to lose weight.
If they exceeded this amount, they experienced unpleasant side effects of loose, oily stools, stomach cramps and diarrhoea; whereas if they ate too little fat in their diet, they experienced minimal weight loss.
The Statistics
Proven to encourage an additional weight loss of 2 ½ lbs more a month compared to following a healthy diet, Alli is certainly a supplement that should only be used with caution.
In the last few years following its release, Alli has been found to:
• Encourage oily spotting in 25% of users
• Cause pre-cancerous lesions in the colons of mice
• Interfere with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A,D,K and E)
However on a positive note, Alli has been proven to reduce LDL-cholesterol by 10%, thus lowering the risks of individuals experiencing heart attacks by 20%.
These statistics aside though, anyone wishing to use Alli should only do so after consulting with a doctor. It is supplement not to be used lightly.
