The secret to losing weight could lie in certain plant-based foods.
While there is no magic weight-loss formula, certain plants are thought to be helpful in curbing appetite and burning fat. There is evidence that these plants, combined with a sensible eating plan and regular exercise, may help you to lose those extra pounds and achieve a healthier lifestyle. All herbs are plants, and according to Weight Loss HQ, the Chinese have been using them for weight loss for thousands of years, a practice that now has found its way into Western culture. Does this Spark an idea?
Ginseng
Ginseng's metabolism-boosting properties may help with weight loss.
A 2009 Weight Loss Center article states that ginseng's weight-loss properties may be related to its ability to boost metabolism and that this may help dieters burn more calories. Metabolism slows down in overweight individuals, and the extra calories they consume aren't burned off. Ginseng is thought to increase the metabolic rate, which translates into less body fat. Ginseng is available commercially in capsule form or as tea.
Hoodia
Found in Africa's Kalahari Desert, the Hoodia gordonii cactus is reportedly used as an appetite-suppressant by the region's native bushmen on long treks. In an article published by the Thyroid Info website, author Mary Shomon states that hoodia contains a substance that tricks humans into thinking they're full. Writes Shomon: "Results of human clinical trials in Britain suggest that hoodia may reduce the appetite by hundreds of calories a day or more." Hoodia can be purchased in capsule form or as a tea.
Garlic
Garlic is thought to be a powerful appetite suppressant.
The not-so-secret ingredient that flavors soups and sauces, garlic's nutritional properties are also no secret. Like the onion, garlic is a member of the allium plant family, and its weight-loss benefits stem from its high concentrations of allicin, which is believed to suppress appetite. Garlic is the only alleged diet aid that is completely safe to eat. It's readily available in its natural form, or as garlic oil, garlic powder, or odorless capsules for those who aren't fond of its intense flavor and smell.
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