All weight loss plans have one thing in common: you have to start using up more calories than you consume to lose weight. Cutting back on calories creates a deficit so you can achieve fast weight loss, but eating less is challenging when your dietary choices are habitual. Weight loss supplements that suppress your appetite may give you a fighting chance for sticking to a healthy diet. Although not a long-term solution, certain supplements provide the assistance people need to get through a period of adjustment when beginning a natural weight loss routine.
Weight Loss Supplements From Beans and Artichokes
A recent study found that participants given weight loss supplements containing bean and artichoke extracts experienced a reduced appetite. After two months, the people taking the supplements had a lower BMI (body mass index). BMI is a comparison of weight to height that is supposed to estimate body fat percentage. The control group did not lose weight. This study was published in Phytotherapy Research journal.
Insulin and Natural Weight Loss
Insulin is an important substance in the body that performs beneficial functions such as regulating blood glucose. However, a release of insulin can also lead to fat storage of glucose that is not used through activity.
Another recent study also published in Phytotherapy Research found that rats given supplements with artichoke extracts prior to meals experienced a notable decrease in blood glucose levels after they ate. A rise in glucose after eating is known as postprandial glycemia. Researchers observed the lower levels in both obese rats and those of a normal weight. Reducing insulin levels near meal times could lead to less body fat and better control of blood sugar.
Consuming vinegar could also reduce postprandial insulin response, according to a older study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Two groups of people ate white bread with vinegar though one group was given more vinegar than the other. The participants who ate the greater amount of vinegar reported more satiation after eating the bread. Satiation means to feel full or satisfied from a meal. If you feel more full from eating the same size meal, you are less likely to overeat during the day.
Researchers measured the blood glucose levels of all participants at 15 minutes, 30 minutes and 90 minutes after meals. Both groups had lower than normal glucose at 15 and 30 minutes, but only the people whose bread came with the greater amount of vinegar had lower glucose responses at the 90-minute mark.
Advantages of Weight Loss Supplements
Weight loss supplements can be beneficial for natural weight loss and to avoid unpleasant side effects. Some people drink apple cider vinegar to suppress the appetite and experience throat irritation due to the high acid content. Although this may not happen to you, a vinegar supplement may still be preferable because it bypasses the possibility of irritating your throat.
Weight loss supplements are also more convenient than carrying around vinegar, beans and artichokes. Supplements are a more realistic option if you do not care for the taste of beans, vinegar or artichokes.
When it comes to losing weight, no supplement is going to replace making good eating choices and getting consistent physical exercise. However, natural weight loss supplements can function as part of a comprehensive weight loss program and increase your chances of reaching your goals.
For more information:
ABC News European Journal of Clinical Nutrition
Doc News
Mayo Clinic
