Weight loss, something more and more people every day find themselves researching. How do I do it? The easy answer would be to exercise and eat healthy, but people want more. Are there any cheat codes or short cuts to get me to my weight goals faster? Well, yes and no.
There is no formula capable of melting fat away right before your eyes, but there are some elements provided by nature that can assist and increase the functionality of these processes that allow you to lose weight. This can mean increasing digestion, metabolism, athletic performance, and even removing toxins, which are a cause of weight gain.
Many of these herbs are commonly used cooking spices, especially in India. This may explain why India has one of the lowest obesity rates compared to other countries. Alongside a healthy diet, the following herbs can significantly help you lose weight.
1) Turmeric
Turmeric has been involved in many studies of weight loss but the success is due to a number of its attributes. Turmeric has been shown to increase one’s metabolism, which directly translates to easier weight loss. It aids in the digestion of fat by stimulating bile production and increasing liver function. Turmeric also decreases cholesterol and helps to prevent the buildup of gas. It even treats irritable bowel syndrome.
2) Ginger
Ginger is a great herb to assist with weight loss. It aids in the digestion of all foods tremendously and increases metabolism. It helps to expel gas as well. It increases bile secretion which also helps to digest. Ginger even treats nausea, lowers cholesterol and lowers blood pressure. This herb is great because it’s widely available in supermarkets in many different forms.
3) Cinnamon
Cinnamon is one herb that people love to hear benefits about because it actually tastes great and goes well on desserts. Cinnamon warms the body and aids in digestion. It also prevents gas and cramps. Cinnamon has a regulating effect on the digestive system and blood sugar levels, while also improving abdominal circulation. Not many people would find it hard to add this safe and great-tasting herb to their diets.
4) Cumin
Cumin is a safe culinary herb that can easily be added to your diet. In a randomized clinical trial of 88 overweight/obese women, it was shown that the women who added cumin to their yogurt had a “significant” reduction in weight, BMI, waist circumference, and fat mass.
5) Kelp
Kelp is a seaweed that is very nutritious and detoxifying. It’s a great source of iodine and B vitamins. It specializes in assisting weight loss in conditions that involve out of balance thyroid functions. This herb also helps to remove heavy metals from the body.
6) Astragalus
Astragalus is an adaptogenic herb with powerful energizing qualities. It aids in the complete digestion process and provides the body with energy. It raises metabolism and lowers blood pressure. It’s actually a heart and immune system tonic as well, which is also important for the process of weight loss. This herb is great for extra energy in the gym and even to keep you motivated, as its adaptogenic properties deal with emotional stress.
7) Schisandra
Schisandra is an energizing all-around great herb that can really help you find the balance you’re looking for to achieve faster weight loss. It’s a whole body tonic and adaptogen. It lifts your mood and improves athletic performance in all areas, such as muscle strength and recovery, oxygen intake, improved stamina, and even mental focus. Its adaptogenic properties help balance adrenal function, which when out of balance, prevents many people from losing weight. It also lowers blood pressure, improves digestion, improves liver function, increases bile secretion, and increases work and activity efficiency.
8) Bladderwrack
This herb is not known by many but has actually been used to assist with weight loss for a long time. This herb is also a seaweed and most seaweeds are weight loss aids. It is known to help the body burn more fat during exercise. This herb is also very nutritious and contains electrolytes making it a great supplement for your workout program.
9) Bentonite Clay
Bentonite clay is a specially aged volcanic ash supplement that significantly helps in the detoxification of the entire body. Bentonite clay draws in toxins like a magnet and aids to expel them out of your body. Toxins are a huge cause of people being overweight for many reasons. Toxins impair organ function, slow down digestion and metabolism, feed parasites, and even add weight to your body because they can’t be expelled. Many people have seen great results using this clay as part of a detoxification program.
It’s important to remember that detoxing is a very important part of weight loss and is highly necessary for all human beings no matter what their weight. So when taking herbs for weight loss, remember to eat a balanced diet abundant in fruits, vegetables, and greens. Drink plenty of water, exercise, and sleep well.