Weight management

Losing weight and maintaining a healthy weight are goals that many people pursue in an effort to improve their health and appearance. In addition to a healthy diet and physical activity, dietary supplements can also play a role in the process of weight loss and supporting dietary goals.

An overview of some supplements that may be helpful for weight loss and dieting

The principle of weight gain is simple – energy intake exceeds energy expenditure and adjustments are necessary to lose weight. The energy equation of reducing calorie intake (less energy in) and increasing exercise (more energy out) is usually considered the best way to overcome this imbalance.

While calorie reduction and exercise are key components of a healthy weight loss program, the essence of weight management is more complex. It may be necessary to seek help in suppressing appetite or promoting fat burning – and several natural nutrients from plant extracts have been shown to do just that:

• Moro Blood Orange: Contains an anthocyanin compound that helps you lose belly fat by reducing both visceral and subcutaneous fat. In fact, pre-clinical studies have had results of almost 50% reduction in belly fat.
• Capsaicin in red chili peppers: Capsaicin is a compound in red chili peppers that can help burn energy by activating a type of body fat called brown adipose tissue. This major "thermogenic" compound increases resting energy expenditure (metabolic rate) so more calories are burned even when the body is at rest.
• Lemon Verbena and Hibiscus: The combination of these natural plant extracts can promote weight loss while promoting satiety. You feel satisfied, so you won't overeat and deviate from your plan.
• Sphaeranthus indicus and garcinia mangostana: Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana) is a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia, where it is traditionally used to treat diabetes. Another medicinal plant known as thistle (Sphaeranthus indicus) has shown anti-inflammatory, blood glucose and lipid lowering effects in preclinical studies.
• Gynostemma pentaphyllum: Compounds extracted from gynostemma have been shown to activate adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase, AMPK, a critical enzyme that regulates cellular metabolism and other cellular functions.
• Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA): Refers to a group of nutrients from linoleic acid, which is mainly found in meat and dairy products. CLA is a fatty acid that can promote fat burning and muscle maintenance. It is often used by athletes and people who want to lose weight.
• White bean extract: White bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) contains a compound that inhibits α-amylase, a digestive enzyme needed to convert starch into smaller sugars. By inhibiting α-amylase activity, white bean extract can reduce carbohydrate digestion and absorption and has been reported to reduce postprandial blood glucose fluctuations.
• Zelený čaj: Green tea is rich in polyphenols and catechins, which can increase metabolic rate and promote fat burning. Many people use green tea as part of their weight loss and healthy lifestyle.
• L-carnitine: L-carnitine is an amino acid that helps the body convert fat into energy. Thus, it can improve energy output during exercise and promote fat burning.

It is important to remember that dietary supplements should not replace a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. It is always best to consult your doctor or nutritionist before taking any dietary supplements, especially if you have a medical condition or are taking medication. Losing weight should be based on healthy eating habits and regular physical activity.