Empowering Resolutions: Weight Loss and Herbal Supplements

[Guest guest]

Good Morning!

 

This month we will be keeping tabs on your New Years Resolutions, in

order to empower you, help you to stay on track and give you some

great tips for keeping your promise to yourself.

 

 

Empowering Resolutions: Weight Loss and Herbal Supplements

 

Herbs used in the treatment of weight loss are utilized in many

different ways. Dietary supplements and thermogenesis or " fat-burning

herbs " are stimulants that reduce appetite and speed metabolism.

Thermogenesis is the process by which the body generates heat or

energy, by increasing the metabolic rate above normal. This rise in

metabolic rate is referred to as the thermogenic effect, thermogenic

response, or specific dynamic action (SDA). Thermogenesis is

activated by a few different mechanisms, including supplements,

nutrition, exercise, and exposure to cold. The herbs below are to

help in systemic problems, which can slow down the process of weight

loss.

 

Bladder wrack is also a natural source of iodine, it has been found

to promote a healthy thyroid and stimulate blood circulation, and is

used to treat obesity, goiter, and kidney dysfunction.

 

Cayenne Pepper aids digestion. It also eases muscle pain, relieves

cluster headaches, reduces arthritis pain, lowers cholesterol, fights

shingles pain, prevents heart disease, and treats diabetic foot pain.

 

Corn silk is very beneficial in treating urinary tract infections and

helps to pass urinary stones. It is a soothing diuretic for kidney

and bladder problems.

 

Dandelion Root is a mild herb laxative, especially effective in cases

of chronic and age-related constipation and water retention.

 

Holy Basil is a cortisol modulator, supports normal blood sugar and

promotes a healthy inflammation response. A gift from the Ayurvedic

system of medicine, Holy Basil is the ultimate adaptogen. Holy Basil

helps support blood sugar levels already in the normal ranges,

supports detoxification, promotes healthy gastric tissue, encourages

healthy immune function, and is radioprotective. It contains several

biologically active compounds found to support a healthy inflammation

response, including eugenol, apigenin, and ursolic acid.

 

Kelp is a significant source of iodine. Studies show that iodine

stimulates the thyroid, boosting the body's metabolism rate, allowing

the body to burn calories more quickly.

 

Marshmallow Root is a natural herb that is effectively used to assist

in stimulating and cleansing the kidneys and bladder.

 

Peppermint has a relaxing effect on the digestive system muscles,

combats flatulence, and stimulates bile and digestive juice flow.

 

Spirulina, a type of algae, is a rich source of protein, vitamins,

minerals, and essential fatty acids. In one double blind study of

sixteen overweight individuals, ingestion of 2.8 grams of spirulina

three times per day for four weeks resulted in a small, but

statistically significant weight loss.

 

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It is my recommendation, that any herbal program should be utilized along with

proper nutrition and exercise. It is also important to add herbal supplements to

your regime when under the supervision of a qualified herbalist, holistic doctor

or Chinese medicine practitioner.

 

Remember, there are no quick fixes or magic bullets for loosing weight, only

discipline and hard work in order to achieve your goal!

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Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac

http://peacefulmind.com/herbology.htm

Therapies for healing

mind, body, spirit