Metabolism and Weight Loss

Without a doubt weight loss and issues surrounding it must be one of the most pressing concerns people, have these days.

Do weight loss supplements work? The simple answer is yes and no. There are no supplements that will safely overcome lousy eating and lifestyle habits no matter how hard we want them to! A brief refresher on metabolism basics will highlight how lifestyle and supplements can work together to achieve one’s health objectives.

When we talk about increasing one’s metabolism we are essentially referring to the health and efficiency of our mitochondria. These are our little furnaces that reside in our cells providing the bulk of the energy to drive all the complex processes needed to support health. The more efficient they are working the better our metabolism will be, and feeding them medium chain triglycerides such as those in coconut oil provide excellent fuel.

As far as supplements go, here is a short list of some that have a good track record in helping with weight loss, but remember: none can overcome a metabolism that is overly compromised.

Green Coffee Bean Extract is the natural form of the raw coffee bean before being roasted. It contains the active ingredient chlorogenic acid shown to improve the body’s ability to burn fat.

Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) directs fats away from storage in fat cells while also increasing fat burning in the skeletal muscle. CLA is naturally present in dairy products and beef, (however the animals need to be grass fed to have any appreciable amount of CLA).

Hydroxycitric Acid (HCA) is derived from a fruit from India called Garcinia Cambogia. Research has found that it helps to prevent the conversion of carbohydrates into fat by inhibiting an enzyme. The hormone insulin is a signal for fat storage; HCA helps reduce the secretion of insulin in response to glucose. HCA may also help reduce appetite.

Citrus Auranticum is a natural stimulant derived from bitter orange. It acts as an effective fat-burner and metabolic stimulant without the negative consequences associated with ephedra type products. It works by acting directly on fat receptors, increasing their breakdown.

Green Tea: Studies have found that the catechins (particularly EGCG), the antioxidants in green tea, help increase fat burning and reduce the risk of high cholesterol.

There are many products that will combine some or all these ingredients to provide a synergistic effect. Make sure that the product you are using provides standardized amounts of the active components. Remember, the key hormone driving the fat gaining process is insulin so controlling blood sugar becomes crucial for anyone trying to manage their weight.

For a complete protocol to healthily reach weight loss goals, including supplements that combine the above ingredients and the dietary changes that one should make, please consult with your health care provider.

This article is provided by Mario Alonzi, a consultant for Nature’s Source. For more information, please visit your local Nature’s Source store or see us online at www.natures-source.com