I am NOT a huge fan of supplements. I rarely venture outside of good quality protein powders, omega 3’s, and vitamin D supplementation. My beliefs are based upon the idea that solid, healthy foods are what make a solid, healthy body. Saying this there does come come a time and place where they can be very beneficial, especially on a fat loss plan.
In order to take supplements there should be prerequisites a majority of the time. If you are just starting an exercise or nutrition program it does not give you a reason to start wolfing down poor supplement choices like Hyroxycut or Weight Gainer 2000. This post will not be about these mainstream fat loss or muscle building supplements that get all the attention these days. It will be about natural herbs and supplements that aid in fat loss and help complete a healthy lifestyle while fighting some common health problems and diseases.
When starting a fat loss plan, there are major problems that could affect your results. For example, things most people have no idea about that could be holding them back from reaching there full potential body fat levels include control of…
- Inflammation
- Thyroid
- Stress
- Gut and Liver health
- Appetite
- Etc. etc. etc.
You will notice below I listed the natural herbs and supplements that research and real life experience suggests help control these types of problems. Saying this I am not guaranteeing anything. Also take note that everyone is different and responds differently to almost anything and everything in all aspects of life.
Note: Before you start a new nutrition or supplementation program you should always consult with your current health care provider beforehand.
TO HELP CONTROL APPETITE
Another Note: Many of these supplements have a carryover to other categories. Meaning they have multiple benefits. For example green tea can control appetite, reduce stress and inflammation, and has been shown to reduce liver and heart disease. Its probably my favorite appetite suppressor though.
Alpha-lipoic-acid: If you are on a fat loss program and have problems with appetite control this supplement is a great choice. Alpha-Lipoic-Acid is a powerful antioxidant and metabolic booster that improves glucose metabolism and suppresses appetite.
PGX (PolyGLycopleX) or knojac root fiber: Being another appetite suppressor, this superfiber is five times more powerful than Psyllium in lowering cholesterol, and has special fibers that absorb sugar, fat, and water in the gut.
Green Tea: Like I mentioned above this green tea contains polyphenols, a type of flavenoid including epigallactocatechins (EGCG) that boosts liver detoxification, reduces cholesterol and oxidative stress, helps prevent cancer and heart disease and reduces inflammation. But from personal experience, this is an incredible drink that seems to keep hunger at bay for mostly every single one of my clients. Plain that is.
TO HELP COPE WITH STRESS
5 Hydroxytryptophan (5HTP): This is the precursor to serotonin. People deficient in serotonin usually show symptoms of depression, anxiety, and increases in appetite. It is seen that most people who’s serotonin levels fall get more carbohydrate cravings. Taking this supplement may help bring serotonin levels back up reducing these symptoms.
Ginseng: Chinese or Korean (panax ginseng) or American (Panax quinquelfolius) will do. Evidence shows ginseng may help with regulating insulin, blood sugar, and your ability to cope with stress.
TO HELP REDUCE INFLAMMATION
Turmeric: This is a spice that can be very effective for fighting oxidative stress and inflammation. I love to include this yellow spice as a dry rub for chicken or even in omelets. Seriously give it a shot.
Capsaicin: This is a chemical compound that produces a sensation of heat. It’s an extract of cayenne pepper. Its been shown to control blood sugar, manage cholesterol and blood pressure, but is often used as a tropical pain killer for arthritis and fibromyalgia.
HELP DETOXIFY YOUR BODY
For those of you that think nothing of detoxification, this will help get rid of toxins which is a huge component of a healthy metabolism. Every single peroson no matter where you work, who you are, and what you do is exposed to toxic chemicals and contain them or residues of metal in your tissues.
Quercitin: This is a bioflavonoid from fruit, onions and garlic that prevents the release of histamine that can help with environmental and food hypersensitivities and allergies.
Cocoa: I personally do not believe in store bought dark chocolate as it is definitely an excuse to eat junk food. The good thing is, unsweetened natural cocoa is rich in antioxidants and polyphenols which rev up your metabolism and help with natural detoxification of the body.
