To be able to identify the best choice, evaluation of a teen weight loss supplement should be based on its efficacy.

There are more than 125 weight loss supplements and over 50 dietary supplements on the market today. Some of them are based on herbs, while others are synthetically produced. However, the reality is that most of them have little or no evidence to the claims that are made. Almost all have conflicting theories, and enough information can be found that argues both sides of the case.

There are prescription and non-prescription weight loss pills for teens available in the market. Prescription pills are subjected to FDA regulations, and are tested for their efficacy and side effects before they are approved for marketing. Some of these prescription pills are very strong and do help to support teen weight loss, to some extent. However, the side effects usually outweigh the benefits, and therefore should be used only in consultation with a physician and in cases where obesity poses a serious danger to overall health. Today there is such a desperate attempt to find a quick solution for weight loss that drugs meant for another ailment with weight loss as a side effect are being used as a weight loss or weight loss pill.

Over-the-counter or non-prescription pills are subjected to nominal FDA regulations. These teen weight loss solutions have become popular because they are based on natural substances and are marketed as healthy teen weight loss supplements with no side effects. These pills are advertised as:

• Appetite suppressants

• Carbohydrate blockers

• Fat blockers

• Thermogenic or stimulant-free fat burners

• Thyroid hormonal supplements

• Cortisol blockers

Many natural substances, including herbs, increase carbohydrate metabolism (ginseng and chromium), increase energy expenditure (ephedra and guarana) or help in higher levels of oxidation (green tea and licorice). Theoretically, these properties can help to a great extent to result in natural weight loss.

Weight loss supplements, irrespective of whether they have undergone nominal or complete FDA scrutiny, can only make up for a deficiency and cannot lead to weight loss on their own. The best way for teens to lose weight is with correct teen diets and regular exercise. Healthy weight loss supplements should be used to augment the overall efforts being made by teens to lose weight.