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Natural Herbs for weight loss |
Obesity is one of the most common
problems among people. It might be because of an unhealthy lifestyle or
sitting for long hours at the workplace. It is a serious issue, which can cause
several other health problems. People work very hard to reduce their weight;
while some take the help of dieting, others sweat for hours in the gym.
If you want to lose weight and feel slim and trim, the only
long-term strategy is to reduce calories and increase exercise. There are
several herbs and natural supplements for natural weight loss that
could be a nice addition to your efforts.
Some herbs and spices may help
support weight loss in addition to a nutritious diet and regular physical
activity. This can include, Tumeric, Ginger cayenne pepper, and cinnamon, among others.
It’s no secret that what you’re
putting on your plate plays a central role in weight loss.
Many herbs and spices have been
shown to fight cravings and boost fat-burning and weight loss.
Here are the top 17 best natural herbs for weight loss.
1. Ginseng
Ginseng is a plant with health-promoting properties often considered a staple in traditional Chinese medicine.
Many studies have suggested that this powerful plant could aid weight loss.
One small study found that taking Korean ginseng twice daily for eight weeks resulted in quantifiable reductions in body weight, as well as changes in gut microbiota composition (10Trusted Source).
2. Fenugreek
Fenugreek (Trigonella
foenum-graecum) is an herb similar to clover. The seeds taste similar to maple
syrup and are used in foods and medicine.
People commonly use fenugreek for
diabetes, menstrual cramps, sexual problems, enlarged prostate, high
cholesterol, obesity, and many other conditions, but there is no good
scientific evidence to support most of these uses.
Possibly Effective for
- Diabetes. Taking fenugreek seed
by mouth seems to lower blood sugar levels in people with
diabetes. - Menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea).
Taking fenugreek seed powder by mouth might reduce painful menstrual
periods. - Increasing response to sexual
stimuli in healthy people. Taking a specific fenugreek seed extract (Testofen,
Gencor Pacific Ltd) by mouth seems to improve the ability and interest in sex in
males. - Sexual problems that prevent
satisfaction during sexual activity. Taking a specific fenugreek seed extract
(Libifem, Gencor Pacific Ltd.) by mouth seems to increase interest in sex in
healthy younger females with a low sex drive.
3. Green Coffee
Green coffee bean extract is commonly found in many weight-loss supplements.
sugar, blocking fat buildup, and improving metabolism. Some small studies
have shown that people who take green coffee lose 3 to 5 pounds more than those
who don’t. Green coffee may also help lower high blood pressure in some
people.
One study found that consuming green coffee reduced body mass index (BMI) and belly fat in 20 participants, even with no changes in calorie intake (Trusted Source).
4. Ginger
Ginger is a spice made from the
rhizome of the flowering ginger plant, Zingiber officinale.
Often used in folk medicine as a
natural remedy for a wide variety of ailments, some research indicates
that ginger could aid weight loss as well.
One review of 14 human studies
showed that supplementing with ginger significantly decreased both body weight
and belly fat (Trusted Source).
5. Tumeric
Turmeric is a spice revered
for its flavor, vibrant color, and potent medicinal properties.
Most of its health benefits are
attributed to the presence of curcumin, a chemical that has been studied
extensively for its effects on everything from inflammation to weight loss.
One study of 44 overweight people
showed that taking curcumin twice daily for one month was effective
in enhancing fat loss, decreasing belly fat, and increasing weight loss by up to
5% (Trusted
Source).
However, keep in mind that these
studies use a concentrated amount of curcumin, far greater than the amount
present in a typical dose of turmeric.
More research is needed to
examine how turmeric itself may impact weight loss.
6. Cumin
Cumin is a spice made from
the dried and ground seeds of Cuminum cyminum, a flowering plant of the
parsley family.
It’s well known for its distinct
nutty flavor but also packed with health benefits, including the potential to
accelerate weight loss and fat burning.
One small, three-month study
found that women who consumed yogurt with 3 grams of cumin twice
daily lost more weight and body fat than a control group (Trusted
Source).
7. Black Pepper
Black pepper is a common
household spice derived from the dried fruit of Piper nigrum, a flowering
vine native to India.
It contains a powerful compound
called piperine, which supplies both its pungent flavor and potential
weight-lowering effects.
One study found that
supplementing with piperine helped reduce body weight in rats on a high-fat
diet, even with no changes in food intake (Trusted
Source).
Further studies are needed to
determine how piperine and black pepper may influence weight loss in humans.
8. Green Tea
Green tea is renowned for its
potential to aid in weight loss and boost metabolism. Rich in antioxidants and
catechins, it helps in burning fat and increasing energy expenditure.
A green tea bag should be steeped in hot water for three to five minutes to reap its benefits. Drink two to three glasses a day, ideally before meals, for the best effects. For long-term and successful weight loss, green tea consumption must be combined with a healthy diet and frequent exercise.
9. Black Tea
Black tea, packed with
antioxidants and flavonoids, can support weight loss efforts. Its compounds aid
in fat oxidation and improve metabolism. To consume it for weight loss, steep
a black tea bag in hot water for 3-5 minutes.
Adding a slice of lemon or a dash
of honey enhances its taste without compromising its benefits. Enjoying a cup
or two throughout the day, especially between meals, can be an excellent
addition to a balanced diet and active lifestyle, promoting both hydration and
weight management.
10. Ginger lemon drink
This is a popular natural remedy
for weight loss due to its potent combination of metabolism-boosting
properties. Ginger helps in digestion and reduces hunger cravings, while lemon
provides vitamin C and antioxidants. To prepare, steep freshly grated ginger in
hot water, then add a squeeze of lemon juice.
Optionally, you can add a
teaspoon of honey for sweetness. Consume it warm in the morning on an empty
stomach to kick-start your metabolism and aid in weight loss.
11. Vegetable juice
Vegetable juice is a
nutrient-packed, low-calorie option for effective weight loss. Loaded with
vitamins, minerals, and fiber, it helps to keep you full while providing
essential nutrients. To make it, blend a variety of vegetables like spinach,
kale, carrots, and cucumbers.
To preserve the fibre content, it is best eaten fresh and without straining. Enjoy it as a snack or as a substitute for a meal, making sure to get a variety of veggies for the best nutrition. Frequent consumption promotes general health and vitality in addition to helping with weight loss.
12. Cinnamon
A 2019 review
Source assessed 12 clinical trials involving 786 participants to
determine the effect of cinnamon on weight loss. It found that the spice was
linked to a reduction in weight.
The dosage associated with a
significant decrease in fat mass was at least 2 grams per day for at least 12
weeks.
Cinnamon supplements appear safe
when the quantities are similar to those that people use to flavor foods.
However, the use of larger amounts for long periods may cause side effects.
The most common trusted Sources are allergic reactions or
gastrointestinal problems.
13. Gymnema Sylvestre
Earlier research from 2014 regarding the benefits of Gymnema Sylvestre in managing weight. The herb was associated with lower body weight and less accumulation of fatty acids, which led the authors to conclude that it had anti-obesity properties.
Gymnema Sylvestre is
potentially safe if a person takes it for up to 20 months.
According to another 2014
study Trusted Source, the herb is safe in recommended doses, but high doses
may cause:
- weakness
- excess sweating
- low blood sugar
- shakiness
- muscular dystrophy
- weakness
14. Cayenne pepper
An analysis from 2017 The effects of capsaicin, a component of cayenne pepper, were investigated by Trusted Source. It was discovered that the spice has several health advantages, one of which is that it helps obese individuals lose weight. It has also been connected to decreased fat storage and elevated satiety—the sensation of being full.
Capsaicin is likely safe when
an individual consumes it in amounts that are typical in food, but it is
possibly unsafe in larger amounts or for long-term use. Side effects may
include:
- Sweating
- Stomach irritation
- Runny nose
15. Green coffee bean extract
Produced from unroasted coffee
beans and has a lot of chlorogenic acids, which help lose weight.
16. Dandelions
Could be considered an unwanted
weed while gardening, but the plant keeps you from bloating while
increasing your intake of vitamins A, C, and E and iron and
potassium.
17. Caralluma Fimbriata
is a common component of diet pills and may influence appetite by increasing serotonin levels, a neurotransmitter.
Reduces appetite and thus, aids
in weight loss.
includes a substance known as gymnemic acid, which may help decrease how sweet food is perceived, hence lowering sugar cravings.
The
Bottom Line
Besides adding a punch of flavor
to your favorite foods, many herbs and spices have been shown to increase
metabolism, enhance fat burning, and promote feelings of fullness.
Adding variety to your spice collection is a quick and easy method to help you lose more weight with less work.
To get the most benefit from weight loss, make sure to combine these herbs with a healthy lifestyle and a well-rounded, balanced diet.
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