The thyroid is a gland in the neck that regulates your body's fat-burning thermostat. Those with an overactive thyroid struggle to supply enough calories to maintain healthy body weight. With a slow thyroid, your body readily stores fat and can be highly resistant to your weight loss efforts. These natural substances may boost the thyroid output of hormones that are intimately involved in fat burning and weight loss. However, these natural supplements are not intended to treat thyroid disorders, and you should always consult with your doctor before beginning supplementation.
L-Tyrosine
L-tyrosine is an amino acid that aids in production of thyroid hormones and weight loss neurotransmitters like norepinephrine, according to "Aminos A-Z" by Jordana Brown, published in the February 2010 issue of Muscle & Performance magazine. L-tyrosine helps by stimulating the production of these hormones that trigger fat burning in the body.
Guggulesterones
Guggulsterones are plant sterols from the commiphora mukul tree, which is native to India. The tree resin contains several guggulsterones, but the E and Z varieties enhance the uptake of iodine, increasing thryoid hormone output, according to "Supplements 101" by Jim Stoppani, Ph.D. This results in more calorie and fat burning.
7-Keto
Seven-Keto, or 7-oxo DHEA, also boosts thyroid output and has a direct effect on fat burning, says Stoppani. DHEA, or dehydroepiandrosterone, is an adrenal hormone that promotes leanness and youthful immune and brain functions. Supplementing with DHEA, however, can cause imbalance in testosterone and estrogen levels. 7-Keto DHEA does not have this hormonal effect in the body.
Kelp
Iodine plays crucial role in maintaining healthy thyroid function, according to the Life Extension Magazine article "Don't Fall Victim To Frailty" by William Davis, M.D. An inexpensive source of dietary iodine is kelp, which can be used to successfully treat low levels of iodine.
Forskolin
Forskolin is the active ingredient in the Ayurvedic herb coleus forskohlii, a member of the mint family. It activates the enzyme adenylate cyclase, which plays a direct role in increasing production of fat burning and thyroid hormones, according to Stoppani. In addition, forskolin has been shown to decrease body fat levels, says Jerry Brainum in "Natural Anabolics."
References
- Muscle & Performance: "Aminos A-Z;" Jordana Brown; February 2010
- "Muscle & Fitness Presents 2010 Edition: The Ultimate Supplement Handbook;" Jim Stoppani, PhD; January 2010
- Life Extension Magazine: "Don't Fall Victim to Frailty;" William Davis, MD; March 2010
- "Natural Anabolics;" Jerry Brainum; 2006
Member Comments