What You Should Know About Weight Loss Herbs and Supplements
You have heard of strange substances that can aid in weight loss. Some act on certain processes in the body such as digestion or metabolism, while some suppress appetite. Others increase water loss from the body. Many buy bottle of these in the hope of a quick fix. Truth be told, there is nothing that can promise long-term weight loss just by constant consumption, but a healthy diet and regular exercise. There is no harm taking these though, and we thought it be better for you to know more about them. Just in case you decide to buy.Top Secret Weight Loss – Losing 47 pounds or 20kg in is just 28 days is possible. Learn how you can do it here…
Buyer Beware
Avoid the stimulant herb ephedra (also known as ma huang) for weight loss as it may increase heart rate and blood pressure. It is banned in the US since 2004 and is ralated to the controlled substance amphetamine. Laxative herbs like rhubarb root, aloe and senna may also cause cramping, diarrhea and gastrointestinal malfunction, that is, you may not be able to move your bowels on your own once you are heavily dependent on them.
Caffeine
Caffeine (found in coffee and tea) increases metabolism but is not suitable for long-term use due to its side effects such as anxiety, increased heart rate and overstimulation. Compounds like yerba mate and guarana are plant-derived sources of caffeine.
Hoodia Gordonii
Hoodia gordonii, a cactus-like African desert plant, has emerged as one of the newer herbs in the industry for weight loss. It acts on the brain, suppressing appetite so that food intake will be restricted as the body is “tricked” that it is full. Diabetics are advised not to take this, as it may exacerbate situations of low blood sugar.
Green Tea
Lauded for its antioxidant and detoxification properties, green tea has been drunk by the Japanese for years. It is unfermented and therefore retains important constituents like epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). Although it contains a small amount of caffeine which acts as a mild stimulant, it is the catechins such as EGCG that contribute to the thermogenic (the body’s rate of burning calories) properties which lead to weight loss. It is also believed to lower cholesterol and decrease the incidence of cancer
Garcinia Cambogia
Known as hydroxycitric acid (which is related to the group of acids found in citrus fruits), this purple berry inhibits an enzyme that prevents storage of excess fat and suppresses appetite by raising serotonin levels. It is also believed to reduce the production of fat and increase the oxidation of fat. More research needs to be done to confirm its weight loss effects as there are some studies which show no difference between subject who took placebo and garcinia. You may experience hyperactivity due to its stimulant effects.
Dandelion
Often going by its scientific name, taraxacum officianale, dandelion is a natural laxative, to be avoided in people with bile or intestinal blockage. It also decreases the level of bad cholesterol in the body and is believed to suppress craving for sweet stuff and increase metabolism. Consuming excessive amount may lead to dehydration due to extensive water loss.
Nettle
A sharp-stinging herb which has diuretic properties, nettle contains high levels of potassium and flavanoids, allowing for greater amounts of urine production and metabolic waste elimination. Nettle is also believed to increase heart
Apple Cider Vinegar
By taking up to three teaspoons of the said vinegar at every meal, it is believed that pectins in the vinegar can reduce cholesterol and burn fat. It is so famous that a diet is named after it. However, research has shown that althought there is no harm consuming the products, there is no evidence of efficacy.
Psyllium
By making you feel full, psyllium (from the seed of the plantago ovata plant, also known as isphagula) indirectly decreases your caloric intake, thereby aiding in weight loss. The soluble fiber it contains also contributes to healthy bowel movement and lowering of cholesterol. Glucose readings were shown to be improved in studies conducted in humans.
Ginseng
A Chinese herb that resembles a wrinkled person, ginseng supposedly alters carbohydrate metabolism and improves glucose tolerance. However, more research needs to be done as current studies show no difference in effect between placebo and herb.
Bitter Orange
Containing compounds related to ephedra, this herb increases energy expenditure. Known by its scientific name of citrus aurantium, it interacts with many drugs, leading to an increased level of drug in the body. Side effects include cardiac disturbances and high blood pressure, similar to ephedra.
Chitosan
Derived from the exoskeleton of shellfish, this fiber-like material is believed to reduce dietary fat absorption by binding to it. Scientific evidence of product efficacy is absent, which means a lot more research is needed to prove that it works. Consumption of Vitamin C is reported to improve the results of chitosan. People allergic to seafood and pregnant women should avoid this supplement. Side effects include constipation and bloating.
As most of these herbs/supplements have uses other than for weight loss, you may experience side effects. Alwaysconsult your doctor or pharmacist if you are concurrently taking other medications/supplements as many herbs interact with them. Breast-feeding mothers and those wanting to conceive should be more careful with supplements too.
Extracted from Healthy Times Magazine volume 25
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