Alli, or orlistat, works by blocking about 25% of the fat you eat from being absorbed into your body. This happens in your digestive tract. Specifically, it inhibits pancreatic lipases, enzymes responsible for breaking down dietary fats into absorbable fatty acids.
How This Affects Your Body
Unabsorbed fat passes through your digestive system and is eliminated in your stool. This leads to a reduction in the number of calories your body absorbs, contributing to weight loss. Expect some gastrointestinal side effects, like oily stools, loose stools, and gas, due to this unabsorbed fat.
Important Considerations
Alli’s effectiveness depends on combining it with a reduced-calorie, low-fat diet and regular exercise. It’s not a magic bullet; it’s a tool to support healthy lifestyle changes. Consult your doctor before starting any weight loss medication, including Alli, to determine if it’s right for you and discuss potential interactions with other medications you may be taking. They can provide personalized guidance and monitor your progress.
