Herbal Supplements to Increase Metabolism

Herbal Supplements to Increase Metabolism
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If you wish to lose weight or increase your metabolism without the use of prescription medication or an intense exercise program, then herbal supplements can be a fitting option for you. Found in most local drug stores and in many mainstream multivitamin products, these herbal supplements are known for their effects on metabolic rate. These supplements are usually available in pill form, as a powder, or as a liquid extract.

Asian Ginseng

According to the University of Michigan Health System, an example of an herbal supplement known for increasing metabolic rate is Asian ginseng. This herb has qualities that mimic those of caffeine, such as speeding up heart rate and increasing the body's ability to burn stored fat deposits. Ginseng can also increase energy levels, allowing for a more active lifestyle. According to the University website, ginseng is safe enough to take as a daily supplement; there are no major side effects reported following consumption.

Nettle

Another herbal supplement available in the mainstream that can help increase metabolic rate is nettle. As mentioned on WomenFitness.net, nettle is high in minerals and vitamins such as A, C and D, and helps clear toxins in the body related to weight gain while also increasing metabolic rate. In addition, the website also suggests that nettle supplements have a natural ability to suppress the feeling of hunger, thus increasing the herb's weight-loss qualities. While more research into the effectiveness of nettle on metabolic rate must be conducted, the website suggests that one theory regarding weight loss involves the herb's effect on feeding cells.

Green Tea

Another herbal supplement known to increase metabolism is green tea. Widely available in supermarkets and drug stores, this green tea aids fat metabolism and increases energy according to WomensFitness.net. Regarding metabolic rate, the website refers to clinical studies conducted by Dr. Abdul Dulloo, of the University of Geneva in Switzerland, which conclude that green tea weight loss programs raises metabolic rates and speeds up fat oxidation. This study included the use of test subjects receiving doses of caffeine, green tea extract or a placebo on a daily basis. At the conclusion of the study, researchers reported a 4 percent increase in metabolic rate in the test group given green tea as compared to the control placebo group.

References

Article reviewed by Kathleen Stebbins Last updated on: May 26, 2010

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