Lesson 20: Weight Managment (page 3 of 4)

All of the above are essential for permanent weight loss and management.

 

“Fat Burners”

Many people have found “fat burner” herbs to be helpful for weight loss. Fat burners temporarily speed up the metabolism (a process known as thermogenesis) stimulating the body to burn calories at a faster rate. They also suppress the appetite. Nature’s Sunshine has formulated a several fat burning herbal combinations which many people have found to be helpful with weight loss without undesirable side effects, including MetaboMax and Ultra Therm.

MetaboMax is made up of the following: Bitter orange fruit (Citrus aurantium) naturally contains synephrine, which helps the body use energy properly, stimulates metabolism, helps with the uptake of amino acids into muscle, increases lipolysis (the breakdown of fat) and can exert mild hunger-suppressant effects. Yerba mate and guarana increase thermogenesis by boosting energy expenditure and metabolism. These two herbs provide natural sources of caffeine (20 mg per capsule) that is utilized by the body for energy and endurance. Ginger has been used traditionally for lipolysis and weight management, and it may have a metabolic-boosting effect. Chickweed is an essential ingredient in the popular Fat Grabbers product. Guggulipid herb contains guggulsterones, which, according to studies, help maintain normal cholesterol levels. Guggulsterones help reduce fat stores due to their thyroid-stimulating activity. MetaboMax Free is a caffeine-free version of this product.

Ultra Therm is another fat burning combination containing green coffee bean extract, green tea and a sustained-release energy blend that includes a patent-pending form of caffeine—providing safe, lasting energy support that may increase energy expenditure throughout the day, increasing calorie burn rate and supporting moderate weight loss over time. Ultra Therm contains 150 mg of caffeine per serving (slightly more than a cup of coffee). Ultra Therm is also available in a caffeine-free version known as Ultra Therm CF that includes Sphaeranthus indicus, Garcinia mangostana and Rhodiola roseahas root extract. Rhodiola roseahas is native to high-altitude regions of Europe and Asia and has well-documented “adaptogen” properties.

Another fat burning herb is Garcinia (Garcinia cambogia), which is indigenous to Thailand and India. It is a popular condiment used in many foods prepared in those countries. The primary ingredient in Garcinia, believed to be responsible for the majority of the herb’s benefits, is Hydroxycitric acid (HCA). Studies report that garcinia inhibits the body’s ability to turn excess carbohydrates into fats. It enables the liver to more effectively produce glucose which is used for energy. This process may result in decreased hunger and increased energy. Garcinia is the key ingredient in Garcinia Combination.

Although it is not an herb, hydrolyzed collagen, the fibrous protein in bones, tendons, and connective tissues, is considered a “fat burner.” Hydrolyzed collagen contains high concentrations of the amino acids, arginine, proline and glycine. When taken at bedtime on an empty stomach it strengthens lean muscle tissue and stimulates the burning of fat. It also supports the integrity of the joints, skin and connective tissues and is an excellent supplement for those suffering from osteoarthritis or similar conditions. Hydrolyzed collagen is the key ingredient in a product known as Collatrim Plus.

CLA or Conjugated Linoleic Acid, is an essential fatty acid that is important to the body. It can help modify body composition by sustaining lean muscle tissue and enhancing lipolysis (the burning of fat), resulting in a number of health and weight benefits. CLA is a patented ingredient for fat reduction. CLA has also been shown to be effective for maintaining normal cholesterol levels and supporting the immune system.

 

The Cortisol Connection

Researchers have begun to notice a connection between cortisol levels and weight management indicators, such as calorie consumption and weight gain. Cortisol is a hormone produced in the adrenal glands in response to stress. It promotes the formation of glucose, which is used as fuel during stressful situations. Nature’s Sunshine has created Cortisol Formula which contains Relora® to help the body manage stress and maintain healthy cortisol levels.

Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.