Fats, or lipids, are organic compounds that supply energy to the body. They are made up of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen and are also required for the formation of essential fatty acids, which play an important role in managing inflammation, blood clotting and brain development. However, excessive intake of saturated and trans-fatty acids may increase the risk of heart disease and obesity. Along with healthy diet and exercise, certain medications may help to dissolve excess fat in the body. Some herbal supplements may also help manage body fat, but do not use them without consulting a doctor.
Green Tea
Green tea is obtained from the unfermented leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant and contains polyphenols known as catechins that are responsible for its biological activity. Regular intake of green tea extracts rich in catechins helps to reduce the levels of fat in the body, thereby lowering the risk of heart disease and obesity, according to a study published in the June 2007 issue of the journal "Obesity." Green tea is generally safe to use, although side effects such as insomnia, irritability heart palpitations and dizziness may occur due to the caffeine in it. Always talk to a doctor before consuming large amounts of green tea.
Psyllium
Psyllium is a soluble fiber obtained from the Plantago ovate plant. It is available as dry seed, husk, capsules, tablets and wafers. According to a study published in the June 2007 issue of the journal "Nutrition Research," psyllium in combination with hydroxycitrate, a derivative of citric acid found in citrus plants, can significantly lower body fat and weight in laboratory animals. Psyllium is not associated with any major side effects. However, it is important to take psyllium with 8 oz of water. The supplements also interfere with certain diabetes and cholesterol-lowering medications and should be used only under the supervision of a physician.
Flax Seed
Another study published in the May 2009 issue of the "Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry" states that flax seed oil may help to improve a nonalcoholic fatty liver condition in laboratory animals. Flax seed oil is extracted from the seed of the flax plant and contains significant amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, which may be responsible for its immense medicinal values. It is available as capsules and oil, and should be used only under the supervision of a doctor, as it may slow down the absorption of some other medications.
Panax Pseudoginseng
Panax pseudoginseng supplements are obtained from the root of Panax notoginseng plant. Animal studies such as the one published in the April 2008 issue of the "Journal of the Korean Society of Food science and Nutrition," have revealed that panax pseudoginseng extracts can lower body fat and reduce body weight. The adverse effects of this herb have not been documented scientifically, although dry mouth, flushed skin, nervousness and sleep problems have been reported. It is best to talk to a doctor before using these supplements to dissolve body fat.
References
- "Obesity"; A Green Tea Extract High in Catechins Reduces Body Fat and Cardiovascular Risks in Humans; Tomonori Nagao, et al.; June 2007
- "Nutrition Research"; Psyllium Husk Combined with Hydroxycitrate Reduces Body Weight Gain and Body Fat in Diet-Induced Obese Rats; Duk Ho Kang, et al.; June 2007
- "Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry"; Flaxseed Oil Attenuates Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver of Hyperlipidemic Hamsters; Shun-Fa Yang, et al.; May 2009
- "Journal of the Korean Society of Food Science and Nutrition"; Effect of Ginseng and Herbal Plant Mixtures on Anti-Obesity in Obese SD Rat Induced by High Fat Diet; S. K. Lee, et al.; April 2008
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