Natural Herbs for Weight Loss

Obesity is a growing problem in America, as evidenced by the increase in fitness clubs, home-gym equipment, diet pills, and programs available. Natural herbs for weight loss, including herbal teas, are great products and are a popular choice because they’re both widely available. But not all herbs are created equal. The best herbs for weight loss are those that contain standardized extracts. In conjunction with diet and exercise, these herbs or teas can help you reach your goals.

Tea is the most widely sipped beverage worldwide, second only to water. Its fantastic flavor is not the only reason, however. Green tea helps increase energy and enhance health. It contains polyphenols–potent antioxidants that help fight cell-damaging free radicals, which can promote aging and illness. Green tea aids the dieter by boosting the metabolism and promoting fat burning. Green tea is available as a beverage and a dietary supplement.

Ginger Tea or Capsules

This culinary herb can help boost your metabolism and improve digestion, which can help you in maintaining or losing weight. Ginger works great in a tea.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon can help regulate your blood sugar levels, reducing sugar cravings and preventing overeating. 

Oolong Tea

Oolong tea is also shown to aid weight loss. Like green tea, oolong originates from the Camellia sinensis plant, although oolong is made from fermented leaves. Its flavor is milder and smoother than both green and black varieties. A nutrient-dense tea, oolong contains antioxidants and caffeine. Like green tea, it is purported to provide a fat-burning effect and reduce water weight by acting as a natural diuretic.

Turmeric

Seaweed

Seaweed is a good source of trace minerals, including chromium and iodine. It’s a natural thyroid stimulant and a delicacy in Asian Cuisine. Seaweed is also an element in commercial cosmetics and organic fertilizers. As an herb for weight loss, seaweed is found in kelp capsules or tablets.

How to Use Natural Herbs for Weight Loss

If you decide to go with drinking teas, I would mix up a pitcher combining green tea, ginger tea, turmeric tea, and cinnamon tea and drink a glass or two a day, especially first thing in the morning with a little lemon juice! If you prefer supplements, Nature’s Sunshine offers a great selection of weight management products.

Lifestyle Habits for Weight Loss

Although these herbs, as teas or capsules, might give dieters an edge, they cannot counteract unhealthy eating habits or a sedentary lifestyle. Diet and exercise are still the most crucial components to any weight loss plan. For the best results, use the herbs to complement your low-fat, reduced-calorie eating plan. Drink plenty of fluids to keep you hydrated and help flush toxins and fat. Exercise, although a gruesome undertaking for some, is essential. The good news is, you don’t have to join a gym or hire a trainer to get in shape. Brisk walking, bike riding, and swimming are fun ways to exercise. If you need help achieving your goal, check out our wellness programs.

References: 

University of Maryland Medical Center: http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/green-tea-000255.htm
The Seaweed Site: http://www.seaweed.ie/