Chiropractor West Monroe La | Nutrients And Herbal Supplements To Promote Weight Loss

Weight loss is a constant topic of conversation-this amazing new diet or that one. Personally, I'm in favor of using resources already found in nature to promote health and well-being in general, and I think that weight loss should be no exception. So if you are overweight or obese, here's what nature has to offer.

Helpful Nutrients -

First, you should take 1,500 milligrams of calcium per day. Calcium is involved in the activation of lipase, an enzyme that breaks down fats so the body can use them. Choline and inositol, taken in accordance with the instructions on their labels, also help the body burn fat. Coenzyme Q10 is necessary for energy, and coenzyme A improves the effects of coenzyme Q10 and metabolizes fat; these should both also be taken according to their labels.

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), taken as directed on the label, inhibits an enzyme that helps to produce fat. Gamma-amino-butyric acid suppresses cravings and also has antidepressant qualities. A multivitamin and mineral complex with potassium is important because obesity and nutritional deficiency are actually part of the same syndrome. Potassium is necessary for the production of energy; sodium and potassium levels must be balanced.

A vitamin B complex is needed for proper digestion. Vitamin B2 is necessary for efficient calorie burning, B3 lessens sugar cravings (but don't take this one if you've got liver problems, high blood pressure, or gout), B6 boosts metabolism, and B12 is required for digestion and absorption.

Helpful Herbs -

Alfalfa, corn silk, dandelion, gravel root, horsetail, hydrangea, hyssop, juniper berries, oat straw, parsley, seawrack, thyme, uva ursi, white ash, and yarrow are all useful in tea for their diuretic properties.

Aloe vera juice enhances digestion and cleans out the digestive tract. Amla assists in increasing lean body mass and reducing fat, and astragalus increases energy and enhances the absorption of nutrients. Borage seed, hawthorn berry, licorice root, and sarsaparilla give a boost to the adrenal glands and the thyroid. Don't use licorice if you have high blood pressure or for more than a week at a time, though.

Butcher's boom, cardamom, cayenne, cinnamon, ephedra, ginger, green tea, and mustard seed are all thermogenic herbs, which enhance digestion and help with fat metabolism. Green tea is becoming widely known for its ability to assist with losing weight, and I can tell you from personal experience that if you did nothing to diet but drink copious amounts of green tea (unsweetened is best, but if you must, I recommend stevia or honey), you'd probably drop some pounds right there.

Fennel removes mucus and fat from the intestinal tract, and is an appetite suppressant, as are guarana and kola nut. Siberian ginseng helps move fluids through body and also reduces the stress of the adjustment to new dietary habits, but you shouldn't use it if you have hypoglycemia, high blood pressure, or any type of heart disorder.

General Advice -

My recommendation is to visit a licensed herbalist for a program of herbs specifically designed for you and your body. In general, though, remember: it's not so much about the number of calories you consume as about eating the right foods, a variety of whole foods with a balance of complex carbohydrates, proteins, and good fat. You'll be amazed at the difference it all can make.