During the past 20 years there has been a dramatic increase in obesity in the U.S. A CDC report states: "Currently, more than half of all U.S. adults are considered overweight (defined as BMI 25 to 29.9) or obese (BMI 30 or higher)."
The most sensible advice for weight reduction "a healthful diet along with adequate exercise" is beyond the ability of millions of Americans. And, concerns over serious side effects such as changes in heart rate, blood pressure and/or elevated cholesterol of prescription medications such as Wyeth-Ayerst Laboratories' Pondiminit or fen-phen (fenfluramine and phentermine ) has cast a shadow on the ability of these products to provide an answer to those wishing to lose weight.