The desire to shed excess pounds leads people to try to find easy ways to achieve this. Exercise and a careful diet are necessary, and may not be easy to stick with. However, according to several universities and other reputable sources, weight-loss efforts might be aided by eating certain foods or taking supplements containing herbs or minerals. Researching current reputable medical journals and websites does not reveal any evidence that a particular vitamin works to suppress appetite, unlike certain minerals. Consult with your doctor before taking any herbal supplement.
Zinc
In "Zinc May Regulate Serum Leptin Concentrations in Humans," researchers from several universities including Harvard Medical School state that zinc supplementation decreases appetite. Zinc increases the amount of leptin circulating in the body. Leptin regulates appetite and energy metabolism and when more is present, you feel fuller. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, ingesting 15 to 20 mg of zinc daily may increase lean body mass and prevent fat gain. Again, the reason given is zinc increases the hormone leptin which satisfies hunger.
High-fiber Foods
Foods that are high in fiber can help to satisfy your hunger and keep you feeling full for longer periods of time. These foods include whole grains, legumes, vegetables, fruits and seeds. The culinary school Le Cordon Bleu states that eating items rich in soluble also boost your metabolism because your body expends more energy digesting them. Insoluble fibers, or roughage, pass through the body undigested. Soluble fibers swell by retaining liquid in the digestive system. Fiber-rich foods also help your digestion and reduce fats and cholesterol in the blood. If you are unable to consume enough fiber-rich food, ask your doctor if fiber supplements containing psyllium husks or similar plant material are suitable for you.
Hoodia
Hoodia gordonii is a plant resembling a small cactus which grows in the southern parts of Africa. It is marketed as a diet aid due to its appetite-suppressing properties. Hoodia contains substances that trick your brain into thinking you are full even when you haven't eaten. As a result, you do not feel discomfort even when your body is running low on fuel. Tom Mangold of BBC News explains that African bushmen have used this herbal remedy for thousands of years to help on long hunts without food or water. While hoodia has few reported side effects, it may lower your blood sugar too much and dehydrate you unless you consume sufficient food and water.
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