Herbs as a Weight Loss Aid

One of the biggest health concerns in the nation is obesity. Of the entire population of the United States at least 2/3, are overweight and one third are considerably overweight or obese. To put that in real numbers that is 101 274 880 people in America whose health is at risk due to obesity.

The definition of obesity has traditionally been anyone who is 20% over their ideal weight for their age, gender and build.

Along with being a cosmetic concern for some people, obesity also carries a risk factor for more serious medical concerns. Conditions such as, high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney problems, fertility issues, problem pregnancy, heart problems, cancer, strokes, gallstones and uterine fibroids are all possible complications of being severely overweight. There is also the chance that excess weight will cause arthritis due to the added stress on a person’s joints.

Each person has a unique metabolism, the rate at which their body’s burn calories and this is affected by different things like genetics. Sadly, even a few too many calories can cause you to gain weight. For example if you consume a mere 100 calories a day more than you need you will gain about a pound a month. Many experts in the field believe that a sedentary life causes more weight gain than overeating. You see when you exercise you burn calories and build muscle, and that muscle burns more calories per pound even when the body is at rest.

Other than diet and exercise, there are some herbal remedies that can help raise your metabolism and or suppress your appetite. As with any significant change you should be aware of all potential side effects and consult with you medical practitioner before beginning any program.

Aloe Vera- works in the digestive tract, improves function and cleanses

Astralgus- Aids in nutrient absorption and increases energy levels

Bee Pollen- Increases metabolism and helps to satisfy sweet cravings

Bladder wrack- high in iodine which affects thyroid functions

Brewer’s Yeast- Affects appetite by reducing cravings for certain foods

Cayenne- Suppresses hunger after eating and increases metabolism

Chitosan- Blocks the absorption of fat in the digestive tract

Chromium- Aids the body in burning fat for energy and muscle building

Dandelion- Cleanses the kidneys, increases metabolism and curbs sweet cravings

Ephedra- more commonly known as ma huang- appetite suppressant

Fennel- Reduces appetite, strips mucus and fat from digestive tract

Garcinia Cambogia- Quiets hunger pangs

Guarana- includes caffeine which suppresses appetite, increases caloric burn and has a diuretic effect

Guggul- reduces cholesterol and aids in weight management

Kelp- Increases metabolism

Malabar Tamarind- Blocks the production of fat cells and reduces appetite

Siberian Ginseng- Levels out blood sugar and decreases the cravings for sweet

Yohimbine- Increases metabolism, suppresses appetite and speeds up fat burning

Licorice- Regulates blood sugar and suppresses sweet cravings

Green Tea- Boosts energy and helps the body burn fat more efficiently

While these herbs can be helpful, they are no replacement for a healthy diet and exercise. An overall healthy life is the key to successful weight management.

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