HERBS THAT ARE EFFECTIVE FOR WEIGHT LOSS

HerbHealtH: 5 HERBS THAT ARE EFFECTIVE FOR WEIGHT LOSS:

It is actually tiring to go through the day and week, planning out the meals and the workout routine. Yet, even days after days you don’t seem to notice any visible form of change in your body. This condition probably can be due to your body’s rigid form of fat that needs some external stimulant to simply project it towards the process of weight loss. 
This might not sound as a very effective and well thought of plan but it is indeed true that there are actually some naturally available catalysts or we can even call them weight loss stimulants that directly affect the fatty portions of the body and helps promote healthier weight loss. To keep in mind here, we are talking about naturally available herbs and not the ones that have been added as ingredients in chemically produced medicines. 

Herbs found in nature have been used for centuries to fight diseases and look out for cures to injuries. There is a huge variety of herbs that have a number of benefits for the skin, hair, nail and body. For instance, one benefit of herbs includes use of soaked tea leaves to get rid of eye bags. There are numerous herbs associated with effective weight loss and we have worked up the best of 5 in this article for your successful and effective weight loss journey.

1.      GREEN TEA:

People have been having tea for as long as one can remember. Having tea is considered to be the favorite time pass of the English and there seems to be no doubts about it. Green Tea however, is the charm of the Asian capital China, which had been the greatest producer of green tea since forever and now the cultivation tradition is moved on to different parts of the world where the conditions are found to be favorable. Green Tea is actually the oxidized/dried form of Camellia sinensis.

Green Tea 

The most important compound being part of green tea that results in effective weight loss is the polyphenol EpigallocatechinGallate. These compounds actually stimulate an increased level of metabolism which in terms helps body to work out on the stiff fats that are stuck around.

Research has reported visible differences in weight loss and body activity levels in a sample of volunteers that had been consuming green tea for over a period of 3 months in-comparison to those who did not consume any.

2.      GREEN COCOA BEAN:

Women do not believe when they are introduced with the fact that chocolate indeed helps in weight loss. This sounds very much like a myth but truth is it isn’t a myth at all. Why is it difficult to believe is because the form of chocolate we describe that promotes weight loss is the original, dark and bitter form of chocolate that is completely different than what is commercially available after adding tons of sugar at the time of manufacturing. Many herbalists wouldn’t directly consider cocoa as an herb but it is very much cultivated in the same way as other herbal teas. 

Green Cocoa Bean

The form of cocoa referring to weight loss is the original green cocoa bean or the powdered form that is completely empty of fats. The form that is involved in the making of chocolate bars comes from cocoa butter. There are a handful of healthy minerals and nutrients present in cocoa including, phosphorus, vitamin B, sodium, potassium, manganese, sulfur, caffeine, theobromine, and calcium. These nutrients are involved in increasing the levels of urination that results in an amount of weight reduction that might be caused due to water retention. The others help in suppressing hunger and appetite.

3.      DANDELION:

Dandelion actually appears as a form of weed plant in different gardens. It is basically a flowering plant that belongs to the family of Taraxacum. Dandelion is known to be an effective part of many teas and drinks that are known to stimulate healthy and fast digestion. Thus, dandelion is found to be an ingredient in different teas, parts of beer and wine. Just like cocoa, dandelion is also a rich source of a number of minerals and nutrients that directly affect the weight gaining activity of the body and combat unhealthy conversion of food into bad fats. Dandelion is also comprised of diuretic properties that increase the levels of urination, effectively resulting in loss of water weight.

Dandelion

The same herb is responsible for stimulating helpful digestive activities and also promotes a healthy appetite. The herb can be found in a number of different ways from dried leaves, to root tincture, dried roots or even leaf juice.

4.      GARCINIA CAMBOGIA:

This miracle herb helps in weight loss in a very different manner. The secret behind the effectiveness of this herb is its ability to enable the body to inhibit the conversion of carbohydrates to fats. The herb is planted in the tropical regions of Africa and Southeast Asia and is commonly known as Gambooge. The part of the fruit/herb that is basically used to promote weight loss is the rind of the fruit (skin). The fruit looks more like an undersized pumpkin in a different color. The way in which Gambooge enables inhibition of carbohydrate conversion is by controlling the workability of enzymes like citrate lyase. This prohibition occurs with the help of Hydroxycitric acid that is a phytochemical present inside Garcinia.

Garcinia cambogia

This lack of conversion of carbohydrates in to fats enables the liver to generate and produce glycogen which thus becomes the primary source of energy for the body, reducing the production of further fats. The herb is available in a number of different supplementary forms including capsules, powder and tablets.

5.      GINGER:

Many would argue over the fact of considering Ginger an herb but naturally ginger is found to be the rhizome (root shoot cluster) of the plant Zingiber officiale. Ginger is found as an active ingredient in many herbal teas and this is because of its effective properties that promote healthy metabolism. The herb is also capable of a wide range of medicinal properties that include being anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic, antibacterial, has sedative effects and also promotes gastrointestinal motility. Any herb with such a wide range of benefits is for sure to be one of the best. 

(Ginger) Zingiber officiale

Works of ginger include increasing the levels of rapid digestion and suppressing hunger by increasing levels of fullness (due to its fibrous content). Research has found that ginger increases metabolism to levels as high as 20%. Ginger promotes feeling of fullness and this suppression of appetite results in a very controlled intake of calories that result in weight gain.

It should be noted that we have only generated the information regarding the herbs and do not share any remedies as to how the herb should be used. It is advised to consult an experienced herbalist before trying out any of the specified herbs to get rid of the notion of going through any naturally occurring side effect.

Catherynne Johns is the Senior Writer for OLWOMEN.com, an avid reader, fashion and make up enthusiast who simply lives to write and talk about all kinds of stuff. Focusing on Fat burning foods especially for women to lose inner thigh fat!

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Best Weight Loss Tips Ever!

In the era of commercialization, we find various weight loss pills, anti-cellulite products and expensive fitness gadgets popping up on the internet and television screens, but these can only cause frustration and may prove detrimental to our health. Natural herbal remedies are safe and promising in reducing weight.

Eat a Balanced Diet

A balanced diet and any form of exercise plays a vital role in reducing as well as maintaining a normal weight. One should eat a diet good in green vegetables and fresh fruits. Some of the fat burning spices such as black pepper, long pepper, mustard, ginger, cinnamon and cayenne should be added to the meals or used in preparations. 

Fish like tuna & salmonare high in Lectin, a protein, which helps improve metabolism and aids fat loss. Reduce the intake of salt & carbohydrate rich, high calorie foods (eg. rice, potatoes). Having vegetable soup or eating papaya at dinner time is helpful in reducing weight. Eating a cabbage salad also helps reduce weight as tartaric acid, an ingredient in the vegetable is known to inhibit conversion of dietary sugar to fat.

Follow any Form of Exercise Regularly

Along with diet, regular exercise is quite beneficial. Brisk walk, skipping a rope, jogging, aerobics, yoga and pranayam (yogic breathing exercises) are among few exercises that can be of help to attain a healthy weight. Also, one should eat slowly as it satisfies hunger with less food, thereby reducing calorie intake. Drink plenty of water (3-4 litres/ day) as it has no calories and reduces hunger.

Herbal Remedies for Weight Loss

Along with a balanced diet and regular exercise regime, do try some of these natural herbal remedies for controlling weight in a healthy manner, that too, without any side effects.

• Squeeze a lemon in a glass of bitter gourd juice and have it every morning.
• Boil about 10 gm of triphala (a combination of equal amount of Amla, Harra & Beheda powder in a glass of water for 10 minutes. Consume it warm in the morning.
• Consuming 2 cups of Green tea is also believed to shed excess fat.
• To keep a check on weight, soak a few leaves of Indian plum/ Jamun overnight. Discard the leaves & drink water in the morning on an empty stomach.
• Take ½ tsp of guggal powder, a tsp of ginger rhizome powder and mix in honey to make it into a paste. Administer it once a day to lose weight.
• Mix in a glass of lukewarm water, a tsp of honey with ½ tsp lemon juice. Drink it every morning and evening to lose weight.
• Pound a ginger rhizome & boil the same in water. Add to it, ½ tsp lemon juice and 1/4^th tsp black pepper powder. Have it when hot.
• Having a tomato or two in morning is said to be beneficial in reducing weight.

Remember Folks, losing weight isn't a mysterious process… it’s a matter of burning more calories than we eat! So get going! All the best!

Cinnamon Tea for Weight Loss

Cinnamon Tea for Weight Loss

The combination of honey and cinnamon has been used for centuries in Ayurveda to promote general well-being and cure various ailments. Although, there is a lack of scientific evidence, many people swear by the unique healing ability of these ingredients as home remedy. Cinnamon is one of the oldest spices known to mankind and honey's popularity has continued throughout history.

Cinnamon and honey, is one of the best-known mixtures, has been reported to be a natural cure for many diseases such as arthritis, bladder infection, hair loss, skin problems, bad breath, toothache, cholesterol, heart diseases, colds and indigestion. Not just that, cinnamon and honey also work well when it comes to weight loss.

A cinnamon and honey tea is believed to burn the fat faster and regulate eating habits by eliminating food cravings. With its fragrant aroma and soothing taste, the tea is claimed to help you shed pounds in a natural way. To enjoy the spice on its own, try the simple, versatile recipe of Cinnamon-Honey Tea:

• Add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon powder to a cup.
• Pour boiling water over cinnamon and cover.
• Let it steep for 15 minutes.
• Add a teaspoon of honey to the cooled liquid (hot liquid tends to destroy the nutrients and enzymes present in honey).
• The tea can be taken an hour before breakfast and an hour before going to bed at night.

Stay Healthy, Be Happy!

मोटापा कम करने के प्राकृतिक उपचार

आज हर कोई मोटापे (Obesity) से परेशान है।आधुनिक समय में यह एक बीमारी के रूप में तेजी से फैल रहा है। मोटापा वह स्थिति है जब अत्यधिक शारीरिक वसा शरीर के भागों में चर्बी के रूप में एकत्र हो जाती है व स्वास्थ्य पर हानिकारक प्रभाव डालने लगती है।

मोटापे के कई कारण हो सकते है। इनमें से प्रमुख है अधिक चर्बीयुक्त आहार का सेवन, व्यायाम न करना, मानसिक तनाव व हाइपोथाइरॉयडिज़्म।

मोटे व्यक्ति को अधिकांशतः मधुमेह, उच्च रक्तचाप, दिल की बीमारी, जोड़ों का दर्द, गठिया,घुटनों में दर्द, कब्ज और अन्य कई विकारों की संभावना भी अधिक होतीहै। कुछ प्राकृतिक घरेलू उपचारों का उपयोग करके तथा जीवनशैली में परिवर्तन करके आपमोटापे की समस्या से छुटकारा पा सकते है।

मोटापा कम करने के प्राकृतिक उपचार

• अपने दिन की शुरुआत नींबू पानी से करें। हर रोज सुबह गुनगुने पानी में नींबू का रस और थोड़ा सा नमक मिला कर सेवन करने से वजन कम करने में मदद मिलती है।
• त्रिफला (१० ग्राम) चूर्ण को एक गिलास पानी में दस मिनट तक उबालें। इस मिश्रण को छानकर रोज सुबह इसका सेवन करें।
• रोज सुबह करेले के रस में नींबू रस मिलाकर पीने से भी शरीर की चर्बी कम होती है।
• सुबह उठकर १-२ टमाटर खाने से भी मोटापा नियंत्रित होता है।
• दिन मे दो बार गुग्गुल गोंद को हल्का गुनगुना करके सेवन करना मोटापा नियंत्रित करने में सहायक है।
• कच्चा या पकाया हुआ पत्तागोभी खाना मोटापे को कम करने में आश्चर्यजनक रूप से सहायक है।
• रोज़ाना ग्रीन टी का सेवन करना न सिर्फ वज़न नियंत्रित करता है, बल्कि शरीर के लिये भी फायदेमंद है। उत्तम गुणवत्ता की ग्रीन टी की पत्तियों को उबले पानी में डालकर ५ -१० मिनट ढककर रखें। इसे दिन में २-३ बार पीयें।
• बराबर मात्रा में आंवले व हल्दी का चूर्ण छाछ के साथ पीने से पेट की अतिरिक्त चर्बी कम होती है।
• रोज सुबह छोटी पीपल का चूर्ण (३ ग्राम) छाछ के साथ सेवन करने से वजन कम करने में मदद मिलती है।
• छाछ मे काला नमक व अजवाइन मिला कर दोपहर के भोजन के बाद पीये।
• आधा चम्मच सौंफ को एक कप उबलते पानी में डालें व १० मिनिट तक इसे ढककर रखें। ठंडा होने पर इस पानी को पिएं।
• दिन भर में ३-४ लीटर पानी पीने से शरीर के विषैले तत्व बाहर निकलते है व पेट की चर्बी भी कम होती है।

ध्यान रखें-

भारी, गरिष्ठ, तले, चटपटे खाद्य पदार्थ ना खायें। अपने आहार में खूब फल और हरी सब्जियां शामिल करें। रेशेदार खाद्य पदार्थ का सेवन अधिक से अधिक करें। कम चर्बी वाले दूध का सेवन करें। नमक व शक्कर का सेवन कम करे। जल्दबाजी में कभी भोजन ना करें। शरीर के वजन को संतुलित रखने के लिए सुबह नियमित रूप से घूमने जाये। एरोबिक्स, जॉगिंग, साइकिलिंग, योगासन, रस्सी कूदना, आदि व्यायाम भी वजन संतुलित रखने में सहायक है।

सबसे ज़रूरी बात - हमेशा खुश रहिए, मुस्कुराते रहिए J

Eat Almonds to Lose Weight

Obesity is a perennial issue that is affecting people of all age groups. A study published in the ‘Journal of Obesity’ reveals the benefits of eating almonds for weight loss. People who try to cut down on their food intake, search for snack alternatives other than nuts because of their high fat and calorie content. Almonds, being an exception, are a great source of heart healthy monounsaturated fatty acids.

Studies conducted by a group of researchers show that almonds being dense in nutrients can help in weight loss. Oleic acid is the primary monounsaturated fat in almonds and it has been associated with a reduction in unhealthy LDL cholesterol levels and a lower risk of heart disease.

Almonds also contain good levels of minerals such as manganese, copper and magnesium as well as B vitamins like riboflavin, niacin and biotin. These nutrients are integral to the cellular processes that activate energy production within the body. Anything that helps you to feel more active and energetic can only be a good thing for losing weight.

Almonds can effectively help suppress the cravings. These nuts also contain fiber which contributes to minimizing hunger pangs by preventing fats and calories to be absorbed by the body. Fiber binds the fat thus preventing it from reaching the intestinal wall and instead will be flushed out.

Another nutritional factor that makes almonds so good for reducing body fat is their high levels of protein. Raising the levels of protein and healthy fats in your diet while diminishing processed carbohydrates will help trigger the process of weight loss.

Research studies from the ‘International Journal of Obesity’ have revealed that people eating a restricted diet with added almonds lose considerably more weight than those who consume restricted diet with the same calories of added complex carbohydrates.

A handful of almonds is not only better for you and will fill you up for longer than grain-based foods, they seem to have a more pronounced effect on weight loss, even when calories are measured by scientists to be identical.

Lose Weight to Increase your Metabolism

There are countless reasons for losing weight. this not only keeps your body fit and healthy, but also increases the metabolic rate. Losing just about any amount of weight can have a positive impact on health. Even if you are not currently experiencing high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or other elevated risk factors, the chances that you will are greatly increased over time. You may be able to prevent further medical problems by losing weight now. 

Eat a Balanced Diet

A balanced diet and any form of exercise plays a vital role in reducing as well as maintaining a normal weight. One should eat a diet good in green vegetables and fresh fruits. Some of the fat burning spices such as black pepper, long pepper, mustard, ginger, cinnamon and cayenne should be added to the meals or used in preparations. 

Fish like tuna & salmonare high in Lectin, a protein, which helps improve metabolism and aids fat loss. Reduce the intake of salt & carbohydrate rich, high calorie foods (eg. rice, potatoes). Having vegetable soup or eating papaya at dinner time is helpful in reducing weight. Eating a cabbage salad also helps reduce weight as tartaric acid, an ingredient in the vegetable is known to inhibit conversion of dietary sugar to fat.

Follow any Form of Exercise Regularly

Along with diet, regular exercise is quite beneficial. Brisk walk, skipping a rope, jogging, aerobics, yoga and pranayam (yogic breathing exercises) are among few exercises that can be of help to attain a healthy weight. Also, one should eat slowly as it satisfies hunger with less food, thereby reducing calorie intake. Drink plenty of water (3-4 litres/ day) as it has no calories and reduces hunger.

Natural Remedies for Weight Loss

Along with a balanced diet and regular exercise regime, do try some of these natural herbal remedies for controlling weight in a healthy manner, that too, without any side effects.

• Take ½ tsp of guggal powder, a tsp of ginger rhizome powder and mix in honey to make it into a paste. Administer it once a day to lose weight.
• To keep a check on weight, soak a few leaves of Indian plum/ Jamun overnight. Discard the leaves & drink water in the morning on an empty stomach.
• Squeeze a lemon in a glass of bitter gourd juice and have it every morning.
• Boil about 10 gm of triphala (a combination of equal amount of Amla, Harra & Beheda powder in a glass of water for 10 minutes. Consume it warm in the morning.
• Consuming 2 cups of Green tea is also believed to shed excess fat.
• Mix in a glass of lukewarm water, a tsp of honey with ½ tsp lemon juice. Drink it every morning and evening to lose weight.
• Pound a ginger rhizome & boil the same in water. Add to it, ½ tsp lemon juice and 1/4^th tsp black pepper powder. Have it when hot.
• Having a tomato or two in morning is said to be beneficial in reducing weight.

Remember Folks, losing weight isn't a mysterious process… it’s a matter of burning more calories than we eat! So get going! All the best!

Chew 32 Times to Lose Weight

Chew 32 Times to Lose Weight

It is a now a well established fact that eating a balanced diet, reducing calorie intake and engaging in regular exercise helps lose weight and keeps one healthy. Let me tell you about another effective weight loss technique (that you are already know or have heard about but usually forget), that is, to chew food slowly and thoroughly.

The chewing process, also known as mastication, serves as the first step in the digestive process. When you eat quickly, you tend to overeat and the food is not digested properly. This inadequately digested food in turn, promotes intestinal bacteria causing flatulence, bloating, constipation, stomach ache, cramps, diarrhea and surely, Weight gain.

For effective weight loss, even while you eat, it is good to chew your food approximately 32 times after you have taken a bite of it. Efficient chewing allows thorough breakdown of food by the enzymes present in the saliva, easy lubrication and digestion in the stomach and the intestines.

Slowing down when you eat is a weight loss strategy based upon the fact that the brain registers fullness about 20 minutes after the stomach. This lag time causes overeating and ultimately, weight gain! By making a few easy changes to eating habits, you can slow down swallowing and allow your brain to catch up with your belly. This would result in consuming fewer calories without feeling any less satisfied.

Taking a small sip of water in between bites would be perfectly fine. While water doesn’t reduce appetite, it does slow down your eating process and is certainly healthy for you.

When you try chewing food for this long the first time it will seem very odd and unnecessary. As time goes on, however, you will notice the difference that this weigh loss eating tip makes in terms of taste and satisfaction. This technique would not only help lose weight, but would let you enjoy your favorite foods at a less risk of overindulging.

How Sleep Affects Your Weight

Some research studies have revealed that short sleep and weight gain are linked! Losing sleep tends to make us eat more and gain weight, and now a new study suggests that one reason may be the impact that sleep deprivation has on the brain. If you're a short sleeper, that is, you sleep for 5 to 6 hours or less a night, you'll have trouble losing weight! In a 7-year study of 7,022 middle-aged people, researchers found that women who reported sleep problems were more likely to experience a major weight gain.

According to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, when we are sleep-deprived, our general energy expenditure is 5 % less than it is when we get a good night's sleep, and the post-meal energy expenditure is 20 % less. In a study at the American Heart Association's 2011 Scientific Sessions, it was shown that women who got only 4 hours of sleep, ate 329 additional calories the next day than they did after 9 hours sleep.

In another study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 11 volunteers spent 14 days at a sleep center on two occasions. During one period, they slept 5.5 hours a night, and during the other, they slept 8.5 hours. When the subjects were sleep-deprived, they increased their nighttime snacking and were more likely to choose high-carbohydrate snacks.

This is probably the biggest revelation about the connection between sleep and weight loss—and the biggest challenge for you if you're not getting at least 7 hours of sleep each night. Sleeping too little affects the hormone levels in our body. The two hormones that are key in this process are ghrelin and leptin.

Ghrelin, a hormone released by the stomach increases hunger, slows metabolism and decreases the body’s ability to burn fat. Lack of sleep causes ghrelin levels to rise, which means your appetite is stimulated, so you want more food. When you don't get enough sleep, it drives leptin levels down, which means you don't feel as satisfied after you eat. The two combined, can set the stage for overeating, which in turn may lead to weight gain. Now that you are eating more, your metabolism is slower when you are sleep-deprived; it explains all the reasons for weight gain!

Sleep is an important tool in weight management. These studies clearly indicate that getting enough sleep can help prime your brain to help you win the battle against weight gain. It’s the most effective thing people can do every day to reset their brain and body health.

Triphala for Weight Loss

Triphala for Weight Loss

Triphala meaning ‘three fruits’, is a traditional Ayurvedic herbal formulation consisting of three fruits native to the Indian subcontinent. These are Amla (Emblica officinalis), Bibhitaki (Terminalia belerica) and Haritaki (Terminalia chebula). It is a natural antioxidant commonly known for its use as a gentle bowel tonic. It also alleviates constipation, supports the nervous system, boosts the immune system, helps fight cancer, nourish and rejuvenate the tissue, helps support the reproductive system and fight against bacteria that cause any disease.

Triphala contains five of the six tastes recognized in Ayurveda -sweet, sour, bitter, pungent and astringent. It helps to prevent sickness and is being used as a therapeutic herbal food. Since triphala powder does not cause any serious side effect, almost any person could consume this supplement.

Triphala is a healthy approach to weight loss while helping the body get rid of the toxins as proper digestion and elimination are important factors in maintaining an optimal body weight. Triphala promotes healthy eating habits by supplying the body with the full spectrum of natural tastes.  Also, triphala reduces excessive water content of the tissues. That is why triphala can be successfully used as part of a weight loss program.

The effective way of ingesting triphala for weight loss is as tea. For this, make a decoction by adding ½ tsp of triphala powder to about 150ml of hot water. Stir and allow the tea to cool and drink. It can be taken on an empty stomach in the morning or before retiring to bed. If you cannot stand the taste, or have shortage of time, it would be convenient to take 2 triphala tablets (1000 mg) with water, before bed or upon rising in the morning. Remember to eat plenty of vegetables, greens, berries, nuts, seeds, fruits, and proteins when taking triphala because maintaining good health is as significant as attaining optimal weight.

Side Effects of Triphala

Triphala is a natural detoxifying formula. Some people may experience headache, nausea, upset stomach and diarrhea. Since Triphala supports healthy elimination, one may experience looser. If the problem becomes too intense, stop taking triphala until the symptoms subside or simply reduce the amount you are ingesting. If the symptoms recur, it is best to stop use and consult a practitioner. 

 References

Vani, T. et al. Antioxidant properties of the Ayurvedic formulation triphala and its constituents. Pharmaceutical Biology 1997; 35 (5): 313-317.

Williamson, Elizabeth. Major Herbs of Ayurveda. Churchhill Livingston, 2002. 210-214, 294-297, 298-301

G. H. Naik, et al. In vitro antioxidant studies and free radical reactions of triphala, an ayurvedic formulation and its constituents.Phytotherapy Research 2005; 19(7): 582-586.

Shi Y, Sahu RP, Srivastava SK. Triphala inhibits both in vitro and in vivo xenograft growth of pancreatic tumor cells by inducing apoptosis. BMC Cancer. 2008 Oct 10; 8:294.