You may be familiar with the many benefits of antioxidants to your health and longevity. Antioxidants protect the cells of your body from damaging free radicals, the MedlinePlus online medical encyclopedia explains, and may play a role in preventing cancer, combating heart disease and protecting against various other diseases. Some antioxidants may also help with weight loss. Resveratrol, found in red grapes, is one such example.
Step 1
Drink green tea. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, green tea has demonstrated effectiveness in producing weight loss in some clinical studies. The source of this benefit is thought to be the polyphenols in green tea, particularly substances called catechins. Green tea is considered healthy in beverage form, and also is available in various supplements. Consult your doctor before taking any supplements.
Step 2
Eat antioxidant-rich foods. Although there are many antioxidant supplements available on the market, the Mayo Clinic explains that you can get the most benefit from the antioxidants in foods. This is, in part, because foods contain a enormous variety of natural antioxidants, while supplements usually contain a few antioxidants at most. Among the best food sources of antioxidants are berries, beans, vegetables, nuts, oats and dark chocolate.
Step 3
Include resveratrol in your plan. In addition to its potential weight-loss benefits, resveratrol is also thought to lower cholesterol levels and the risks for heart disease risk and diabetes. Resveratrol is also thought to increase energy levels and promote muscle endurance, "Fitness" magazine reports. In addition to grapes, resveratrol can be found in blueberries, cranberries and peanuts.
Step 4
Investigate acai. Acai has become quite popular for its purported abilities to reduce risk of heart disease, combat premature aging and decrease inflammation, according to Oprah Winfrey's Oprah website. This Brazilian berry is also a common ingredient in many weight-loss supplements; do not take supplements promising weight loss, or any other supplements, without consulting your doctor first. The site adds that acai is also available as an unsweetened pulp or juice.
Tips and Warnings
- Eat healthily and exercise. Because some antioxidants, such as resveratrol, are thought to increase energy, you may be able to exercise more while consuming them, "Fitness" reports. Remember that diet and exercise are essential to weight-loss efforts.
- Talk to your doctor before undertaking any weight-loss plan, before making any drastic dietary changes or taking any supplements.
Things You'll Need
- Green tea
- Resveratrol
- Acai
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