Weight loss diet supplements are a dime a dozen these days. Most of them don't work, as you have probably found out. What is the alternative, if you've had trouble losing weight with strict dieting and exercising? Well there is an alternative -- we'll discuss it in this article.

First let's look at the words "weight loss diet supplement". Supplement means to be taken as an aid for something else. This means it is imperative that you have a healthy diet and exercise program to begin with. To think that of pill alone will cure your weight issues is a bit naïve. Even if you achieve short-term results, the minute you quit taking the pill, is the minute you usually start gaining weight back.

With that said, the right combination of exercise, dieting, and weight lost when using supplements can work wonders. It is like a boost to get you going, and to get you some quick results, which can help motivate you to make a permanent change in your dieting and life style.

When taking supplements, you must use good judgment and caution. If you're taking over-the-counter supplements, there is a bit more risk. First, if you're serious about weight loss supplements, contact your doctor to see if you can get a prescription. By going with prescription supplements, you increase your chances a hundredfold of taking a diet supplement that is not harmful or has bad side effects.

Also, since you have had the aid of your doctor, you also know that you're taking one that is most likely to work for you and not cause any health issues. Your chances are a lot better than trying to figure this out on your own.

Keep in mind, there are many different national and herbal diet supplements out there. But just because something is natural or herbal, doesn't mean it is healthy for you. Make sure you understand what each ingredient is for, and what it does, before using any weight loss diet supplement.

Next, you have to have realistic expectations. Just because somebody took a supplement and lost a lot of weight, doesn't mean that you will. Different bodies react to different supplements in different ways. What you see on most advertisements is a "best case scenario". But how many times in your life do things go perfectly? Rarely.

By having realistic expectations, you don't set yourself up for failure. Actually, it's easier for you to go on and stay motivated, as you try to make a change and lose weight.