Quickest Way to Lose Thigh Weight

When most people think of losing thigh weight, they tend to think of thigh fat as being a problem that has to be addressed in isolation with methods such as spot exercising. The truth is that the body functions not as a cluster of isolated parts, but as a unified organism. As such, if you're seeking to lose thigh weight, you'll likely get the best results by taking a holistic approach that includes diet, exercise and detoxification.

Step 1

Eat more raw foods. In his book, "Rainbow Green Live-Food Cuisine," nutrition expert Dr. Gabriel Cousens states that a diet high in raw vegan foods can help improve health and speed weight loss. Aim to have at least half of each meal be comprised of raw vegan fare. Choices include green salads, fruits and nuts.

Step 2

Enhance detoxification. In his book "Ultrametabolism: The Simple Plan for Automatic Weight Loss," Dr. Mark Hyman states that detoxification is one of the most important tools in weight management. A liver that is clogged with toxins from our environment and the foods we eat will have a hard time metabolizing sugars and fats, and this could serve to hinder weight-loss efforts. Cruciferous vegetables such as cabbage, broccoli, kale and watercress can all serve to enhance detoxification. Supplements such as N-acetyl-cysteine (500 mg, twice a day) and vitamin C (1000 mg, twice a day) can also be helpful.

Step 3

Drink a cup of green tea daily. Green tea contains antioxidants known as catechins. According to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, catechins can serve to reduce body fat and encourage weight loss.

Step 4

Consume healthy fats. Many people think a low-fat diet is the best approach for weight loss. However, in his book "Eat Fat, Look Thin," naturopath Bruce Fife cites clinical studies that make a compelling case for including healthy fats such as coconut oil and olive oil in your weight-loss regimen. He points to a study conducted by Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School showing that subjects on a moderate-fat diet lost weight more effectively than those on a low-fat diet, even though both test groups consumed the same amount of calories. Fife recommends consuming at least one or two teaspoons of coconut oil daily; the oil may be used as a cooking oil or consumed straight from the jar.

Step 5

Keep moving. Exercise can speed up the metabolism and serve as an invaluable ally in your weight-loss efforts. Cardiovascular exercise such as jogging or cycling can help burn calories, but strength training can be just as important in weight loss. Strength training can help to build lean muscle, and muscle has been shown to burn more calories than fat, even when the body is at rest. Thus, people who have good muscle development tend to burn calories more efficiently, and as such, are less likely to have a weight problem. Aim to get at least 30 minutes of exercise at least three times per week.

Tips and Warnings

  • Keep a food and exercise journal to monitor your weight-loss efforts. This written record can help you develop a sense of routine that can encourage compliance.
  • If you have not had a physical within the last year or are in poor health, consult your doctor before beginning an exercise program.

Things You'll Need

  • Raw vegan foods such as green salads, fruits and nuts
  • N-acetyl-cysteine
  • Vitamin C
  • Cruciferous vegetables
  • Green tea
  • Coconut oil

References

Article reviewed by OmahaTyppo Last updated on: Oct 23, 2009

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