Maintaining a healthy weight is important for overall health, and reduces the risk of diabetes, arthritis, cancer, stroke, heart disease, depression, and other medical disorders. The best way to keep a healthy weight or lose weight is to consume fewer calories—often achieved by eating a healthy diet. A healthy diet includes choosing whole grains, lean sources of protein, low-fat dairy products, and eating plenty of fruits and vegetables. Exercising several times per week is another way to lose weight, maintain a healthy weight, or lower the risk for certain diseases.

Medications such as phentermine may assist in weight loss by increasing the feeling of fullness and decreasing cravings for food. Some side effects of phentermine include trouble sleeping, nervousness, dry mouth, constipation, and increased heart rate.