There are so many weight loss solutions present in the market. Diet, exercise, and surgery are commonly used to lose weight. But many other methods also available for the loss weight that less known.
In this article, we list out all popular weight-loss methods or solutions that widely used for weight loss.
You read this article and find the best weight loss method that helps you to lose weight.
Non-Surgical Weight Loss Solutions
1. Zerona
Zerona is a non-invasive fat loss technique that uses laser energy to make the body lose fat, thus helping you lose weight. It is one of the new weight loss options that do not include surgery and works fast.
Zerona technique works by making fat cells release the content inside them and causing them to shrink. The smaller the fat cells get, the slimmer your body becomes. To get the treatment started, the patient needs to lie down under the Zerona device, while the machine sends laser light to the fat deposits in the body. The released fat is then flushed out of the patient’s body lymphatic system or burned for energy.
The entire process takes 40 minutes, and a total of six sessions is required to see results.
2. Vanquish
Vanquish is another non-invasive FDA-approved weight loss solution that can help an obese or overweight person lose stubborn fat from various parts of the body. This technique works best for the abdomen or belly fat.
This procedure uses radiofrequency energy to heat fat cells and kill them once and for all. While this technique is perfect for reducing belly fat, it cannot be used on the entire body or to lose a lot of weight.
The method is entirely safe for the skin’s surface layer and takes about 45 minutes for one session. Visible results can be seen within four sittings.
3. Plenity
Plenity is a new entrant in the weight loss market. Plenity can help people who have a BMI between 25 to 40 kg/m2 lose weight. When combined with diet and exercise, Plenity can help in effective weight loss.
Plenity is the first FDA-approved weight management solution that is made from citric acid and cellulose.
Available in capsule form, Plenity can be taken before lunch and dinner. Plenity mixes with food and absorbs the water a person drinks. Plenity helps a personfeel full and thus makes you eat less.
4. Red Light Therapy
Red Light Therapy is a non-invasive technique to lose weight effectively. It is said that red light powers the cells in a human body.
In this procedure, red and near-infrared wavelengths are directly sent to the body with medical-grade LEDs. It starts a chemical reaction in the mitochondria of the body’s cells, which boosts the production of energy and regeneration of the cells.
This therapy has a host of other benefits like fuelling better sleep, reducing joint pain, muscle recovery, etc. It is entirely safe and does not have any side-effects, either.
5. Ultrasound Fat Reduction
Ultrasound Fat Reduction or Ultrasound cavitation is a non-surgical fat reduction technique that uses sound waves to flush out fat from the body.
In this procedure, certain parts of the body are targeted with low-frequency sound waves. The sound waves heat and then vibrate the layer of fat cells that lie beneath the skin. Soon after, the fat cells liquefy and are released into the bloodstream. They are then flushed out of the body through the lymphatic system.
While results are usually visible after the first session itself, around 8 to 10 sessions are required to view optimal results.
6. Balloon System
The balloon method is one of the best weight loss solutions where a gastric balloon is delivered inside the stomach.
In this system, a swallowable capsule is attached to a thin inflation catheter that opens up inside the tummy. The balloon occupies considerable space inside the stomach and helps the patient feel fuller without overeating.
The procedure is primarily painless and takes about 15 minutes at the most. However, the balloon needs to be removed after six months.
It is an excellent fat loss solution for people who need to lose weight before an operation or for managing weight too. The process is slow, so one needs to be patient.
Types of Balloons
- ORBERA Managed Weight Loss System – made by Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. (FDA-Approved) – Stays in the stomach up to 6 months
- ReShape Duo Balloon System (FDA-Approved) – Stays in the stomach up to 6 months
- Spatz3 Adjustable Balloon System (COFEPRIS-Approved) – Stays in the stomach up to one year
- Obalon Intragastric Balloon System (just received FDA Approval) – Stays in the stomach up to 6 months
The Pros and Cons of Obalon Balloon System
Pros
- It is a non-surgical procedure and hence, is less invasive
- It does not involve any severe complications.
- One can lose up to 20 to 40 pounds of weight
- It is a temporary process
- The balloon is removable
- The risks are limited and so are the side effects
Cons
- There are chances of weight gain after the removal of the balloon
- The balloon is not a long-term measure for weight loss
- Might cause discomfort to the patient
- The balloon might rupture if it stays for too long in the stomach.
- The balloon alone won’t work without a proper diet and exercise.
- Might cause disturbances in the bowel movement
7. Coolsculpting
Coolsculpting, which in medical terminology is known as cryolipolysis, is a non-surgical method of removing extra fat from your body. The technique uses a machine that kind of freezes the targeted fat cell and after that, is broken down by the body and drained out.
The Coolsculpting procedure is relatively new in the market but has proven to be a beneficial process. The process of Coolsculpting is used in the following body regions
- Thighs
- Abdomen
- Upper neck and under the chin
- Armpits
- Flanks
- Back
- Hip region
You ought to be careful before going into the process of Coolsculpting in the below-mentioned scenarios:-
- During pregnancy or if you breast-feeding
- Cryoglobulinemia (A medical disorder)
- Cold Agglutinin disease
- Raynaud’s disease
- Paroxysmal cold Hemoglobinuria
- Chilblains
- Nerve conditions
- Skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis
- Inflammatory skin circumstances
- Recent skin injuries
The Pros of Coolsculpting
- It is a low-risk procedure.
- Useful for people who have a healthy weight but have excess fat in certain areas.
- The risk of complications like infection, scarring, etc. is relatively low.
- The chances of regaining weight are less since the fat cells are destroyed and removed permanently from the body.
- You can get back to performing your daily activities soon after the procedure.
- It is a pain-free procedure
- The result of this weight loss solution makes you look natural.
The Cons of Coolsculpting
- Changes to skin color
- First or second-degree freeze burns
- Pain or numbness in the treated area
- Development of hard nodules in the treated area
- Dizziness or nausea
- Weakness in the lower lip muscle if the procedure is done on the chin or the neck
8. Prescription Medications
A person’s body mass index is what determines whether he is overweight or not. If your BMI is between 25 to 30, you are overweight. If your BMI is over 30, you are obese.
Healthcare professionals prescribe medicines based on a person’s BMI. And the drugs work in different ways. While some weight loss pills make a person feel less hungry, the other types make it harder for the body to absorb fat from foods.
Some of the FDA-approved weight loss pills include Orlistat, Phentermine-topiramate, Liraglutide, Lorcaserin, etc. However, most of these medicines are only for adults and must be taken by consulting a doctor.
9. Weight Loss Programs
Both diet and exercise play a key role in weight loss programs. Proper diet and regular exercise can help you lose weight effectively.
When it comes to food habits, Eat Your Way to Happiness author Elizabeth Somer says, “[Dieters] seriously underestimate portions…they eat too many processed foods that are high in calories, fat, salt, sugar, and low in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients. They eat far too few fresh fruits and vegetables, and when they do eat them, they chose the worst ones.”
A recent study published by Plos One concluded that unless you control what you eat and how much you eat, you cannot lose weight. However, not all diets suit everyone. So, design a weight loss diet for yourself that you can sustain in the long run without regaining the lost weight.
Popular Weight Loss Programs
- WHOLE30 DIET – This is a popular weight loss solution that has been useful for some people. In this diet, you can eat protein and vegetables for 30 days. You need to avoid alcohol, dairy, nuts, and sugar.
- WEIGHT WATCHERS DIET – This weight loss program is heralded as one of the most successful diets in the world. With this diet plan, you can eat whatever you want and can shape your diet plan. This diet works on a SmartPoints system where each food item is assigned a certain point.
- MAYO CLINIC ONLINE DIET PROGRAM – This is a weight loss solution that has been designed to help you lose weight healthily and safely and maintain it in the future also. The program provides you with healthy meal plans, interactive tools that can help you track your weight loss progress, and exercise plans so that you can stay fit and active even after the program ends.
- NUTRISYSTEM – This is a weight loss program that delivers pre-packaged food to your doorstep if you enroll in the program. It focuses on portion control and eating real food like fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean meat. They also have separate programs for men, women, the elderly, vegetarians, and diabetic people.
10. Yoga
Yoga is an early form of exercise that is said to have numerous benefits for the body, mind, and even your soul. It can help you create the best version of yourself with regular practice.
Some yoga poses that can aid in quick weight loss are
Surya Namaskar or the Sun Salutation
This one is a relaxed pose that you can practice right to lose weight naturally at home. Start with standing straight. Next, inhale deeply and lift your arms over your head. Next, exhale as you bend forward. Once done, get your feet back into the plank pose.
Stay put for at least five breaths. Soon after, go down on your knees and lower your body to the floor. Stretch out your legs and turn the tops of your feet towards the mat. Place your hands under your shoulders while doing so. Slowly, go into the Cobra pose.
Then, exhale and go into the Downward Facing Dog pose. Stay put for at least five breaths. Then, exhale and stand in the Forward Bend position. Then inhale and lift your arms over your head. And exhale to lower your arms back down.
Downward Dog Pose
This asana targets your thighs, back, and arms. The asana starts from a resting pose and, after that, gradually its action aims at strengthening the target areas.
The thigh muscles and the arms are to be rotated inwards while pressing down your heels and hands. Keep in mind that normal breathing should continue during the asana.
The Bridge Asana
The bridge asana apart from providing adequate results for fat loss can be used for controlling your glutes and thyroid. Your chin needs to touch your chest while lifting your back with your hands laid flat on the ground.
This action allows the thyroid glands to release hormones to regulate their metabolism. The act of the asana aims at your back, thigh, and hip muscles. The bridge asana also helps to digest correctly.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Yoga
Advantages
- Works on the whole body and improves internal functions
- Helps in toning your muscles
- Enables you to get rid of excess fat from your body
- Helps to make your body flexible and strong
- Naturally detoxifies your body
- Yoga is a stress buster
Disadvantages
Yoga does not have any cons as such. However, if you are a beginner, it might seem tough for you at the start. Also, some yoga poses can be challenging and need to be practiced regularly so that one does not twist an arm or a leg.
11. Weight Loss Pills and Supplements
The market is filled with various weight loss solutions that include weight loss pills and supplements, as well. While some medicines claim that the pills will make them less hungry, some argue that they accelerate the fat-burning process.
There are many fat burners and dietary supplements available in the market. Some of the popular ones are Garcinia cambogia extract, green tea extract, raspberry ketones, green coffee extract, Conjugated linoleic acid/CLA, etc.
However, none of these pills will work if you do not follow a strict diet and exercise regularly.
12. Weight Loss Tea
The market today is rife with all sorts of weight loss pills, powder, and teas. However, not all of them work. We have listed a few herbal teas that work and are the right weight loss solutions.
Green Tea – Green tea is known to boost metabolism and burn fat fast. Another study has also shown that green tea indicates fat cells release fat and also increases the ability of the liver to convert that fat into energy.
Oolong Tea – A little stronger than green tea, oolong tea can help with increasing energy and burning fat effectively.
Rooibos Tea – This beautiful maroon-colored tea helps to curb hunger pangs, keeps you fuller for longer, and also reduces stress.
White Tea – This is the purest form of tea and even the healthiest. White tea can block fat and stop new fat cells from forming in the body.
13. Belts
Slimming belts, also known as compression belts or sauna belts, have been in the market for quite some time now.
Slimming belts work by heating the abdomen region and increasing circulation to flush out toxins from the body.
These belts help one lose just water weight. So, they are not a very useful tool for weight loss.
14. Drops
HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) is a hormone that is administered through oral drops, sprays, pellets, and injections. While there are theories that claim it is risky, there are some that believe that HCG can help a person lose weight without starving him/her.
There are many fake weight loss drops available on the market. So be careful of what you buy.
15. Weight Loss Powder
Weight loss powders are mostly whey protein powders that are full of nutrients and contain zero sugar. Protein plays a significant role in weight loss because it keeps a person full and satisfied for a long.
Drinking protein shakes can prevent snacking between meals. There are numerous protein powders on the market. Choose the natural ones that contain no preservatives and sugar.
16. Body Wraps
These days many spas and wellness clinics offer body wrap treatments to aid weight loss. One of the quick and safe weight loss solutions, body wraps can be done on the entire body or specific spots on the body. Some types of body wraps are herbal body wraps, infrared body wraps, and heat body wraps
Surgical Weight Loss Solutions
17. Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery is an operation that can be done by people who are obese. This surgery helps you lose weight by changing the way your digestive system works.
Bariatric surgery can make your stomach smaller. It is done so that you eat and drink less at one go and feel full sooner. Another type is where changes are made to the small intestine. It is done to reduce the calories and nutrients that the body absorbs from food and liquids.
This weight loss procedure works on obese people and people who have failed to lose weight despite several attempts. You could also choose this surgery if you have health issues like sleep apnea, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or any matter related to obesity.
The Different Types of Bariatric Surgeries are:
Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass – This is the most common type of weight loss surgery in the United States. In this type, a small gastric pouch is created by stapling across the upper stomach.
The proximal and distal portions of the stomach are physically separated, and a loop of jejunum is attached to the upper gastric pouch. The pancreaticobiliary limb is connected to the small bowel.
This method restricts the food intake of the patient, triggering selective malabsorption, and limiting the patient’s intake of triggering food like processed and sugary food.
Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Band – This is the least invasive type of bariatric surgery. In this type, a flexible silicone ring is placed around the upper part of the stomach.
It creates a small gastric pouch that restricts the food intake of the patient. No patient has reported any metabolic or nutritional complications due to this surgery so far
Laparoscopic Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch – It is a medical weight loss solution. The procedure calls for a sleeve gastrectomy where the pylorus is preserved as the first stage of the operation. It is followed by the creation of a long Roux limb with a short common channel.
This surgery is one of the toughest weight-loss surgeries that primarily promote malabsorption. However, in the long run, it may also result in nutrient deficiency, protein-calorie malnutrition, etc.
Laparoscopic Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy – It was initially the first stage of the laparoscopic biliopancreatic diversion. It was conducted on morbidly obese patients. Today, it is performed as a stand-alone surgery for weight loss.
This surgery involves a partial gastrectomy, where the majority of the greater curvature of the stomach is removed. A tubular stomach is created in its place.
The Pros and Cons of Bariatric Surgery
Pros
- Immediate weight loss
- Improved rate of mortality
- Better quality of life
- Reduction of obesity-related health risks
- Psychological benefits which lead to a happier person
Cons
- It is a permanent procedure
- Expensive procedure
- Might lead to loss of life
- Regain of weight
- Might sustain damage or injury to the body during the operation
One should always keep in mind that the process, even though it can reduce your weight, cannot replace healthy habits. So, while the surgery might make you consume fewer calories, you must still stick to eating healthy and staying physically active.
18. Liposuction
Liposuction, also known as body contouring or lipoplasty, is a surgical procedure to lose weight. This treatment uses a suction technique to remove stored fat from specific areas of the body like the abdomen, arms, buttocks, calves, chin, hips, neck, or thighs.
Liposuction can also contour these areas. This method is not advisable if you are obese or overweight. However, it is a good option if you have a stable weight but excess body fat stored in particular areas of the body.
Liposuction reduces the fat cell count in a specific area. However, the amount of fat removed through liposuction depends on the area’s appearance and the volume of fat.
The Different Types of Liposuction Which are Available in the Market
You may come across different types of Liposuction processes in the market, but there is one factor that is common in all the methods – Cannula. The cannula is a thin tube that is used to suck out the layers of fat from the body.
UAL or Ultrasound Assisted Liposuction – This process uses ultrasound waves to damage the fat cells and also liquefies it so that it can be sucked out using the vacuum machine.
Tumescent Liposuction – This method is probably the most common. The process includes injecting a solution (mix of saltwater with epinephrine and lidocaine) into the target area, which dilutes the fat, and after that, the suction process starts.
Laser Liposuction – As the name explains, the process uses laser rays to soften the fat cells, and after that, it is sucked out.
Advantages of Liposuction
- The process is safe compared to many other fat removal processes.
- The desired size and appearance can be achieved quickly
- Helps to avoid diseases
- Specific body parts can be targeted
- Long-lasting results
Disadvantages of Liposuction
- A lot of bleeding might happen during the process
- Complications during anesthesia
- Accumulation of fluid under the skin
- Infections
- Nerve damage
- Clotting of blood
Conclusion
“Make time for it. Just get it done. Nobody ever got strong or got in shape by thinking about it. They did it.“– Jim Wendler
Losing weight is no mean feat. It is a tough journey, but getting fit and losing weight is not an impossible task. If you have found the right weight loss solutions for you and yet, feel like giving up, read on.
It might be difficult for you to eat healthy all the time, cook the right meal, control your portion size, or to find time to work out every day. But always remember that perseverance is the key. Keep trying and you will surely reach your goal.
Also, remember that you are not alone. There are many people like you around the world fighting their own weight loss battles. Take a deep breath and start again. Sooner or later, you will get there, and then, you will have an inspiring story to tell others on a weight loss journey.
