The best method for controlling weight, as we all know, is to exercise regularly and eat a balanced diet. Meals should be low in fat, rich in fiber, and nutritious. Dietary supplements are still useful, however, in delivering nutrients to the body and metabolism.

For people on a low-calorie diet, a multivitamin and mineral supplement is often necessary to receive proper nutrition. People with lower calcium and vitamin D levels are significantly more likely to be obese compared to people with higher vitamin D levels. Women taking calcium plus vitamin D are also more likely to lose weight and maintain their weight.Preliminary clinical research shows that taking a fish oil supplement significantly decreases body fat when combined with exercise. Preliminary studies also suggest that conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) can help control weight in obese individuals by reducing body fat and enhancing lean body mass. CLA helps glucose get into muscle cells more effectively, thus preventing glucose from being converted into fat. It also helps fats enter the cell membranes of muscle and connective tissue, where the fat is burned for fuel.

Many herbs are used to control body weight but proof of their effectiveness still requires further research. Studies suggest that green tea and guarana extract may boost metabolism and help burn fat. 5-HTP may reduce body fat mass by decreasing caloric intake. Psyllium may improve blood sugar and lipid levels which can relate to obesity in some children.