Weight Loss Fads

This week, I am going to talk about a few weight loss "secrets" that I am sure many of you are familiar with. Do they work? Are they safe? Read on and find out!

P.S I am in the Oct/Nov issue of Healthy Directions Magazine.
www.healthydirections.ca. For those in the Niagara/Hamilton Area, you can pick up a FREE copy at Fortinos or Goodness Me!

Tracy


You have heard them all but which ones are worth a try and which ones deserve to die? I have picked 3 of the most common ones to find out.
Read on my Friends!

1. Green Tea

Green Tea has been proven to fight heart disease, cancer, and other diseases with its powerful antioxidants but can it help you lose wieght. The substances found in green tea known as catechins may trigger weight loss by stimulating the body to burn calories and decreasing body fat.

The Verdict: Outlook is positive and reasearch is starting to support this claim. Give it a try! General recommendations are to drink up to 4 cups a day.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple Cider Vinegar has been used for hundreds of years as a health tonic. Many claim that is can cure migraines, diabetes and chronic fatigue. Proponents speculate that the pectin found in the cider reacts in the stomach to suppress appetite.

The Verdict: Not enough research has been done to support this claim. Do you want to try it anyway? Believers suggest about a tablespoon before you eat your meal.

3. Fat Burners

Fat burners are basically pills which contain certain"natural" ingredients such as Ephedra, HCA, Chitosan and Pyruvate, all of which claim to either increase energy, stimulate your metabolism and/or suppress your appetite.

The Verdict: The jury is still out. All of these supplements need further study. There is no regulation on supplements, so you never know if you are actually getting natural products. No one knows what the long term effects are or how they react with other medication - Don't risk it!

Disclaimer: Please consult your physician before changing your diet or beginning any exercise program. This is not a substitute for a doctors advice.