dieting with pills

Question
im a sailor currently deployed overseas. ever since i left 6 months ago ive put on a bit of weight. ive lost quite a bit of muscle mass and it converted to fatty tissues. ive noticed that my ambition to go to the gym is at a all time low and i have no energy to go. im limited to certin foods out here and ive been led to think that diet pills will help me get out of my slump and shred off the weight. ive been taking hydroxycut because i heard its the best out there but honestly i dont use it regularly. pretty much my question is, what can i eat to boost my energy and will the pills help me loose the weight i want to look good for my girlfriend and to help me feel better about my self? im sorry if my question seems all over the place but im just so confused about what to do. i need help soon. thank you so much!

Answer
Zach,
I would NEVER recommend "diet pills" to anyone!!  That is NOT the way to go and can even be dangerous to a degree!! Hydroxycut contains an herbal called ma huang or ephedrine, which can be dangerous with dangerous side effects for some. They are NOT what will help you to lose weight, gain energy and keep the weight off!!  
You need to look for the healthiest foods you have available to you.  Stick to the basics of the food groups: lean meats, fruits, vegetables, grains (especially whole grains if possible), and low-fat or fat-free dairy products.  Drink lots of water and stay away from beverages such as soft drinks that add lots of calories and no nutritional value!  Eat at least your three meals a day and sneak some healthy snacks in between if possible.  You NEED to get back to the gym!!  That will help boost your energy and self-esteem!!  Start slow and make a goal to go maybe 2 times per week.  Once that is happening, set a goal at 3 times per week and increase what you are doing and how long you workout slowly!  
You are much better off sticking to a healthy diet and getting yourself to that gym than wasting money and your health on these diet pills!!  They are NOT proven to work and basically don't!!
Check out www.mypyramid.gov.
Kim Tessmer, RD LD
www.Nutrifocus.net

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