What’s the number one new year’s resolution? You guessed it — to lose weight. Human beings were originally designed to walk about 40km a day, but nowadays we do much less and eat much more ice-cream than our ancestors ever did — which is probably why we put on weight, especially after the traditional Christmas blow-out. These natural remedies can help you trim the seasonal fat.
- Amino acids, B vitamins
Glutamine, tyrosine, and carnitine are claimed to reduce appetite and burn fat. Low vitamin B levels are linked to increased depression, which makes you more likely to binge on high-carbohydrate foods, like biscuits. Look for combination formulas in health food stores.
- Green tea
Research published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition shows that a substance in green tea called epigallocatechin gallate increases your metabolism, or the rate your body burns kilojoules. Drink one to three cups of green tea daily.
- Spirulina, kelp and seaweed
These all contain iodine, which helps boost a slow or sluggish metabolic rate and stimulates digestion. Take supplements according to label instructions.
- Licorice and chamomile
Satisfy sugar cravings with licorice root tea. If you’re eating because you’re agitated, a cup of chamomile can soothe your nerves and possibly deflect your desire to eat.