Effect of a Short Term Dietary Supplement Combination Program on Weight Management Adipose Tissue, Cholesterol and Triglycerides in Overweight Adults.

Introduction: A dietary supplement combination program (PHASE DIETS: ONE WEEK DIET PROGRAM) consisting of liquid supplement and a protein shake was studied to determine its safety and efficacy on weight/fat loss, cholesterol and triglycerides levels in thirty five overweight adults between ages 14-60. Methods: This open label trail measured total body weight, body fat percentage, waist circumference, hips (females), chest (females), abdomen (males), glucose, total cholesterol and triglycerides before and after one week on the dietary program. A group of thirteen subjects continued on the dietary program for one more week and anthropometric measures were obtained. Results: Interestingly after only one week on the dietary supplement program the subjects experience a statistically significant (p < 0.05) weight reducing effect. This weight reduction was accompanied with a corresponding statistically significant (p < 0.05) decrease in body fat percentage. In addition significant decrease in total cholesterol (p < 0.05) and triglycerides (p < 0.01) resulted. Also reduction in waist, hip and chest measurements were obtained. Conclusion: We conclude that the dietary supplement combination program studied herein is a safe and effective way to assist adults in weight, fat, cholesterol and triglyceride reduction.

Integrative medicine: a paradigm shift in medical education and practice

The use of alternative/complementary medicine has been increasing considerably. Conventional medicine must begin to address issues related to the use, safety, regulation, research and education of alternative/complementary medicine. Integrative medicine combines conventional medicine and alternative complementary practices. Integrative medicine is an innovative approach to medicine and medical education. It involves the understanding of the interaction of the mind, body and spirit and how to interpret this relationship in the dynamics of health and disease. Integrative medicine shifts the orientation of the medical practice from disease based approach to a healing based approach. It does not reject conventional medicine nor uncritically accepts unconventional practices. Integrative medicine is an effective, more fulfilling human approach to medicine based on the benefit of the patient by following good medicine practices in a scientific manner.