weight loss through dieting, exercise and dietary supplements

Question
I am a 22 year old female.  I currently weight 148 lbs. and am 5' 4".  I have a medium frame and would like to lose 15 to 20 lbs.  I have been watching what I eat and exercising moderately.  I was thinking about starting to maybe take a dietary supplement to help speed things up but I'm not quite sure if I should do this or not?  Do you have any suggestions about dietary supplements or a better diet to help me with my weight loss?  Thanks.

Answer
Jamie,
As a dietitian and health professional I do not recommend "dietary supplements".  Most of these types of supplements are not approved by the FDA and are not scientifically proven to work.  I would continue doing what you are doing but you may just need a little more help on the diet part.  Sometimes it is easy to think you are eating healthy or eating the right amount when you may not be.  I really recommend working with a dietitian either on or off line to help you get the right base for a healthy diet and to help you analyze what you are currently eating.  They can help to let you know how many calories you should be eating and what you are presently eating.  They can help you to ensure you are eating as healthy as you think.
I DO offer online services.  If interested check out my web site at: www.Nutrifocus.net.
Thanks,
Kim Tessmer, RDLD  

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