Natural Weight Loss Supplement – A Traditional Remedy

Written by Glenn

Tuesday, 26 February 2008

There is no mystery to a natural weight loss supplement, as Native Americans and other ethnic groups have used this traditional remedy for many illnesses throughout history. When added to your dieting regime, it is proven to increase metabolism and aid in the normal functioning of the digestive system.

Products

We found a number of products available online in the category of a natural weight loss supplement. Probably the most popular one is Hoodia - the much talked about natural weight loss supplement that has flooded the market today. Grown primarily in the desert regions of South Africa, the main ingredient of the hoodia gordonii plant is the steroidal glycoside, referred to as “p57.”

A Natural Weight Loss Supplement May Contain Any Or All These Ingredients

Fucus vesiculosis - also known as bladderwrack, is a vegetable of the sea that consists of minerals such as iodine, potassium, magnesium, iron, and calcium.

Garcinia cambogia - the scientific name for a type of fruit that contains a derivative of citric acid. Taken from the tamarind, the extract is similar to that found in oranges and grapefruit. As a natural weight loss supplement, it is helpful in suppressing the appetite and working against the storage of fat in the body.

Galium aparine – found in a type of wild grass grown in many parts of the world. Acts as a diuretic in removing toxins from the system.

Dandelion – contains vitamins including A, B, C, and D that have a positive effect on weight loss and a healthy digestive system.

Guarana – aids in weight loss by providing the sense of fullness and acts as an appetite suppressant through the presence of caffeine. (See side effects below.)

Tumeric – an antioxidant that helps reduce inflammation by increasing production of normal cortisone in the body.

Cayenne pepper – contains capsicum which stimulates the flow of saliva and a number of vitamins and minerals of benefit to the digestive system.

Side Effects

A natural weight loss supplement may cause different side effects. The caffeine in guarana is substantial, up to 3x the amount in coffee beans, and may cause anxiety or a rapid heart beat, if taken in too large a quantity. Other side effects may occur such as nausea, abdominal cramps, difficulty in urinating, and changes in blood pressure, glucose, and potassium levels. There has been some reporting of adverse effects on the liver by the natural weight loss supplement Hoodia, presumably caused by other ingredients in the plant than p57 http://www.altmedicine.about.com/od/hoodia/a/hoodiasideeff.htm It is not recommended for diabetics as blood sugar levels may drop. Since it seems to suppress not only hunger, but also thirst, dehydration may occur; it is not recommended for people with liver or kidney disease. There may be other side effects in a natural weight loss supplement, depending upon the physical and mental makeup of an individual.

Conclusion

Some people assume that simply because it is identified as a natural weight loss supplement, it can be taken with no cause for alarm. While there is some information on the safety in taking a natural weight loss supplement, there is little scientific proof to examine. A natural weight loss supplement is not considered a food or a drug, and is therefore not regulated by the FDA. Some products, originally believed to be harmless, have later been taken off the market, once further testing and research were done. Since balancing the internal organs of the body is the key to successful weight loss, however, a natural weight loss supplement may be the answer. Individual weight loss cannot be determined, as other factors such as diet, exercise, and of course motivation must be considered. It is always advisable to speak with your doctor before deciding on any natural weight loss supplement, no matter how good it sounds. Don’t assume that the label information gives you the whole story, either.

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