subject: Herbal Solutions for Weight Loss [print this page] Herbal Solutions for Weight Loss Herbal Solutions for Weight Loss
It is no secret that Americans need to lose weight. More than sixty million people in the United States are overweight. Obesity is currently the second highest cause of preventable death in America. There are solutions, though. A healthy lifestyle is possible, and is achievable with just a little effort.
There are innumerable ways to lose weight available. There are hundreds of diet programs, exercise plans, exercise machines, supplements and diet pills. What many overlook, though, are the benefits of herbal supplementation to lose weight and maintain health.
Although they cannot take the place of sustained, intelligent effort, herbal supplements can certainly help with weight loss. Though it can take longer to achieve the desired results, it can also be healthier. Natural herbal remedies have the potential of being safer to use than weight loss drugs.
A quick search on the internet will find dozens, or even hundreds, of herbal weight loss formulas. Keep in mind that natural does not always equate to safety. Here is a list of a few supplements that have the potential of being harmful.
Senna. This herb is a stimulant laxative present on many teas for weight loss. As a laxative, it can cause dehydration and colon irritation. You can also become dependent on it for normal bowel functioning.
Chromium Picolinate. Frequently found in herbal dieting products, chromium helps to regulate blood sugar levels. If taken in doses that are too high, though, it can lead to dehydration and chromosomal damage.
St. John's Wort. This herb is commonly used to treat depression and anxiety. This could help to curb emotional eating that is likely to lead to weight gain. Its active ingredient is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) and, when combined with certain foods, can raise blood pressure levels by dangerous or even fatal amounts. Minor side effects include gastrointestinal problems, fatigue, and skin and eye sensitivity.
While most herbal supplements claim to be all natural, and therefore safe, it is always a good idea to look carefully at the ingredients and research them independently. Even better, consult your physician before taking any herbal supplements.
There are healthier options for improving your diet through foods and supplements, though. Eating organic foods is one of these.
Organic foods are foods that have been grown, or animals that have been raised, naturally, without harsh pesticides, fertilizers, or injections of hormones. Many people believe that this improves overall health. These foods are good for those trying to shed excess pounds, as the more chemically processed your foods are, the less healthy they tend to be. Organic foods are generally more expensive, but its proponents claim that you will save money on medical expenses in the end.
Multiple studies have shown that drinking green tea regularly may boost your metabolism. Green tea also contains powerful antioxidants, which should improve your overall health. When combined with caffeine, also shown to be helpful for weight loss, this can boost your metabolism by forty percent, helping you to burn fat faster. One study showed that participants lost weight at a rate of two to three times faster when regularly drinking green tea. This will also give you more energy, which makes it easier to have an active lifestyle.
There is an herb found in China known as jiaogulan, scientific name Gymnostemma pentaphyllium. This herb is believed to have the following beneficial effects:
Increased circulation.
A reduction in arterial blocks.
Lower, healthier blood pressure.
Increased metabolism, and therefore, faster fat burning.
This herb is also known as Southern Ginseng or Immortality Herb.
Consider taking apple cider vinegar. Available in multiple forms, it is considered to do the following:
Improve weight loss.
Lower cholesterol.
Reduce blood pressure.
Help with rheumatoid arthritis.
Whether you are trying to lose weight, maintain your current weight, or simple live a healthier lifestyle, the same tools are necessary. You need to eat a healthy diet and engage in regular physical activity. Consider adding herbal supplements to your toolbox, as well. Always remember to discuss your plans with your doctor. Being healthy does not require a lot of hard work, but it does require persistent effort.
