When you turn 40, certain factors conspire that cause you to gain weight or make it more difficult to lose weight. For instance, as you get older you're likely to become less active and your metabolism also slows down. Controlling calories and exercise are the best ways to lose weight. However, taking weight loss supplements when you're 40 years old can also enhance your efforts to shed extra pounds.
Cinnamon
Excess levels of insulin increase your appetite and trigger fat storage in your body, especially around your abdomen. Cinnamon, which is better known for its ability to spice up dishes, can improve blood glucose metabolism, lower glucose levels and improve insulin sensitivity, according to a study published in the journal "Diabetes Care" in December 2003. Cinnamon is available as a powder, liquid extract or capsules. In the study, participants tolerated doses of 6 g or less daily for 40 days.
Iron
Iron deficiency is the leading nutrient deficiency in the world. Women are more likely to have an iron deficiency, or anemia, due to factors such as menstruation. However, anemia may also result from a poor diet, being a vegetarian, frequent blood donor or frequently taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory or arthritis drugs. Low iron levels reduce the amount of blood and oxygen transported to your muscles, and therefore, exercise performance. Speak to your doctor about adding an iron supplement to your diet to boost energy and maximize the results of your workouts and weight loss results.
Fiber
A high-fiber diet can suppress your appetite, stabilize blood glucose levels and help you lose weight. However, most Americans do not consume the recommended amount of fiber daily, which is at least 20 g. It's best to get fiber from foods such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables. However, if you find it difficult to get the daily recommended dose, you can also take a fiber supplement such as psyllium or glucomannan.
Considerations
Consult your doctor before taking weight loss supplements, especially if you have a medical condition. Also, be aware that dietary supplements do not go through the same safety and effectiveness standards as prescription and over-the-counter drugs. Some supplements do not contain enough of the active ingredient that you may be looking for, such as cinnamon, to help you lose weight. Buy from well-established health and natural health outlets. Finally, don't rely on supplements only to slim down. Monitor your daily calorie intake and exercise for at least 30 minutes most days of the week.
References
- Penn State: "Food and Nutrition Notes"; The Power of Cinnamon; Mary Alice Gettings; Winter 2004
- "Diabetes Care"; Cinnamon Improves Glucose and Lipids of People With Type 2 Diabetes; Richard Anderson et al.; Dec 2003
- Iron Deficiency Project Advisory Science: Iron Nutrition and Exercise; John L. Beard, Ph.D.
- MayoClinic.com: Iron Deficiency Anemia
- MedlinePlus: Iron Deficiency Anemia
- Hughson Health Alert: A High Fiber Diet - For Weight Loss and Reducing Risk for Certain Medical Conditions
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