Herbs have been traditionally used for weight loss. Herbs in conjunction with a healthy diet can boost metabolism, regulate blood sugar levels suppress appetite and inhibit conversion of carbohydrates into fat. It’s important to note that herbs should not be relied upon as a sole source of weight loss. Here are a few herbs that have been associated with weight loss:
Green Tea:
Green tea is a popular beverage known for its health benefits and has been studied for potential weight loss properties. Green tea leaves are rich in antioxidants called catechin which have a lot of health benefits.
- Studies have shown that these compounds can help boost metabolism and help the body burn more calories and fat.
- Green tea also helps in reducing appetite. Some studies have shown that green tea can help suppress hunger and reduce food intake which can lead to fewer calories consumed overall.
- Green tea helps reduce fat absorption. Studies show that green tea can help block the absorption of fat in intestines, which means less fat is absorbed into body and more is excreted as waste. One study published found that men who consumed green tea and exercised regularly lost more weight and experienced reduction in body fat than those who did not consume. It also found that women who drank green tea for 12 weeks lost more body fat than those who did not.
Even though green tea has potential weight loss benefits, it should be combined with healthy diet and regular exercise. We have to be mindful of the caffeine content of green tea which widely varies from brand to brand. Some people may experience side effects such as jitteriness, anxiety and sleep disturbance after consuming too much caffeine. Always consult a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet or exercise routine.
Garcinia Cambogia:
Garcinia cambogia is a tropical fruit that has become popular for its weight loss benefits. Garcinia cambogia contains a compound called hydroxycitric acid (HCA) which is believed to be responsible for weight loss effects. Studies have shown that the compound has the ability to inhibit an enzyme called citrate lyase, which helps change carbohydrates in fat, inhibiting this enzyme HCA reduces the amount of fat that is stored in our body. Some studies have shown that HCA increases production of neurotransmitter serotonin which regulates our mood and appetite. By increasing the levels it helps reduce food cravings and reduction in food intake.
Garcinia cambogia may have potential weight loss benefits however the effectiveness may vary from person to person. Like any other supplement it is important to use it as a part of overall healthy lifestyle. This means eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise and getting enough sleep. Some people may experience digestive issues such as diarrhoea stomach pain or nausea. Garcinia cambogia can also interact with certain medications, so it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before you take the supplement.
Cinnamon:
Cinnamon as a spice has been used for thousands of years for its health benefits. In recent years it has become popular as a weight loss aid.
- Cinnamon is derived from the inner bark of the tree from Cinnamomum family. The bark is rick in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. Compounds like cinnamaldehyde and cinnamic acid in cinnamon are believed to be responsible for potential weight loss effects.
- Cinnamon regulates blood sugar levels and boost metabolism rate. By stabilising sugar levels it may help reduce craving and prevent over eating.
- By increasing metabolic rate it helps body burn more calories and fat thus leading to weight loss. Some studies have shown that consuming cinnamon for 12 weeks can lead to significant reduction in weight, body fat and waist circumference.
Cinnamon may have potential weight loss benefits, you should be mindful of the type of cinnamon we are consuming. There are two main types of cinnamon available: Ceylon and cassia Cinnamon. It is recommended to choose Ceylon cinnamon and to limit cassia cinnamon to small amounts as it can be harmful in large doses. As all supplements cinnamons effectiveness varies from person to person. It is important to be mindful of the type of cinnamon you are consuming and always consult a health care professional before making any significant changes to diet routine.
Ginger:
Ginger is a popular health supplement due to its health benefits. Ginger contains compounds such as gingerol and shogaol that have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-nausea properties.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Ginger helps reduce inflammation in the body, which could potentially help with conditions as such as osteoarthritis and other inflammatory disorders.
- Digestive health: Ginger has been shown to help with digestive issues such as nausea, vomiting, and bloating. It may also help promote regularity and alleviate constipation.
- Immune system support: Ginger has been shown to have immune-boosting properties and may help fight off infections.
- Blood sugar control: Some studies suggest that ginger may help regulate blood sugar levels, which could be beneficial for people with diabetes.
- Cardiovascular health: Ginger may help lower blood pressure and improve cholesterol levels, which could reduce the risk of heart disease.
While ginger is generally safe, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider before taking ginger as a supplement, especially if you are taking medication or have any underlying health conditions. Ginger may interact with certain medications or may not be appropriate for people with certain health conditions. Ginger has been suggested as a possible aid for weight loss but the evidence of its effectiveness is mixed and more research is needed to fully understand its potential benefits.
Turmeric:
The mechanisms by which turmeric may regulate weight loss are not yet fully understood, but several possible mechanisms have been proposed
- Reducing inflammation: Chronic inflammation has been linked to obesity and weight gain. Turmeric’s active compound, curcumin, has anti-inflammatory properties, which helps reduce inflammation in the body and potentially aid in weight loss.
- Regulating blood sugar: Some studies have found that curcumin may help regulate blood sugar levels, which could be beneficial for people with diabetes or insulin resistance. Regulating blood sugar may also help prevent overeating and promote weight loss.
- Enhancing fat metabolism: Studies have suggested that curcumin may help enhance fat metabolism and reduce the accumulation of fat in the body. This could potentially lead to weight loss.
- Suppressing appetite: Some studies have suggested that curcumin may help reduce feelings of hunger and suppress appetite, which could potentially lead to a decrease in calorie intake and promote weight loss.
Turmeric should not be relied upon as the sole method for achieving weight loss goals. A healthy diet and regular exercise are necessary for sustainable weight loss.
It is important to note that further research is required to fully understand the effects of these herbs on weight loss and they should not be relied upon as sole method for weight loss goals. It is important to speak with your health care provider before taking any herbs or supplements,, as they may interact with your medication or may not be appropriate for people with certain health conditions. A healthy diet and regular exercise are necessary for healthy lifestyle.