Herbal Weight
Loss
Unfortunately the recent popularity of natural and herbal
weight loss supplements has meant that every manufacturer has
decided to start supplying them and the number of products
continues to expand, which
has led to a lot of confusion.
Most of these have become very popular and their attributes
well documented but if you are still unsure if herbal weight
loss is the right thing for you, hopefully this article will be
helpful.
Hoodia
One of the most talked about herbal supplements is Hoodia.
While it has other attributes, it is how it tricks the mind
into believing it does not need anything to eat that is the
real reason it is used; something people in Africa have known
about and the reason Hoodia has been used there for many
years.
Hoodia works because it contains certain glycosides that,
when released,
make the hypothalamus gland of the brain believe
sugar has entered the bloodstream. It sends out a signal that
says you've consumed enough, so the appetite is suppressed.
Guarana
Another well known supplement is Guarana, whose chemical
makeup is identical to caffeine. In fact, Guarana, sometimes
called guaranine, produces seeds with more caffeine than any
other plant, including coffee beans.
The biggest difference between the Guarana caffeine and the
sort found in coffee beans is that Guarana's caffeine is
released much more slowly, so you get a prolonged period of
stimulation.
However, Guarana is not for everyone; like all caffeine, it
can cause insomnia, palpitations, anxiety, urinary frequency
and trembling. It's not recommended if you're pregnant or
nursing, have high blood pressure, cardiac problems or
other medical issues.
Dandelion
The use of dandelion as a way of helping flush
out excess fluid has been used for centuries, and
although the odd allergic reaction has been reported, it is
generally considered quite harmless. Dandelion is very
effective for people who need to decrease fluid retention, but
generally speaking, it's not really considered an herbal weight
loss plan.
Dandelion can be be used as a gentle and natural diuretic
that actually helps the functioning of the
whole digestive system, including the kidneys,
gallbladder, and intestines.
You should always check with your doctor before taking a new
herbal supplement. Dandelion is very beneficial to most people,
but if you have ulcers, gallstones or other digestive issues,
it's not for you.
Cascara
Cascara is a laxative used in many herbal weight loss
supplements but must be used with care. It's a powerful,
natural laxative that causes the colon to contract,
creating an urge to have a bowel movement.
It shouldn't be taken for more than 7 consecutive days,
and not at all by pregnant women or children. It may interact
with certain medications and there are many medical conditions
with which Cascara is not compatible and therefore
shouldn't be taken.
Green Tea
Green tea has become very popular in the last few years as
an herbal weight loss product, but in China, green tea has
been used a medicine for at least 4 centuries.
A number of studies carried out on the effectiveness of
green tea have shown that it does have natural weight loss
properties and can help you burn more calories. Green tea
contains powerful anti-oxidants that are also extremely
beneficial to your general health and well-being.
Herbal Weight
Loss
Unfortunately the average person wishing to lose a few
pounds believes that herbal weight loss supplements are the
answer all on their own. The truth is, long term weight control
requires a change in a person's attitude about what they eat
and how much physical activity they carry out; natural products
are just a way to help.
Don't be fooled into thinking that you can just take a pill
or drink something and the pounds will just fall off. Herbal
weight loss involves taking advantage of the dietary
supplements Nature has provided, but also in taking control
over what you eat and how much, and regularly engaging in
exercise activities.
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