Weight loss is a constant battle for some. Affecting both
men and women, excess weight is not just an aesthetic issue, but more
importantly, a health issue that can have serious implications if overlooked.
WHAT ARE THE HEALTH RISKS OF EXCESS WEIGHT?
Excess body fat can easily result in obesity, a serious
condition that increases a person’s risk of diseases and health problems, such
as heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure.
First of all, obesity leads to coronary heart
disease (CHD), which develops when plaque (a waxy substance)
accumulates in the coronary arteries carrying oxygen-rich blood to the heart.
Plaque narrows and eventually blocks the coronary arteries thus reducing blood
flow to the heart muscle and compromising its function. Heart failure is
the worst outcome.
Secondly, obesity significantly increases the chances of
hypertension or high blood pressure, which is the force of blood
pushing against the walls of the arteries as the heart pumps blood. If this
pressure is high and stays high over time, it can seriously damage the body in
many ways.
Next, if an area of plaque ruptures, it leads to formation
of a blood clot, which can block the flow of blood and oxygen to your brain
thus causing a stroke.
Last, but not least, obesity can trigger the onset of diabetes,
which is a leading cause of premature death, CHD, stroke, kidney disease, and
blindness. Most people with type 2 diabetes are overweight.
HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOU ARE AT RISK?
A number called the Body Mass Index (BMI)
is calculated to give an estimate of your fatness. BMI compares your weight to
your height, and gives an assessment of whether you’re underweight, a healthy
weight, overweight, or obese for your height. But your BMI is not the only
thing to consider when evaluating your risk factors of the above mentioned
chronic diseases. Your other risk factors such as family history, lifestyle,
and diet, matter as well.
HOW CAN YOU REDUCE WEIGHT WITHOUT DIET OR EXERCISE?
As unbelievable as it may sound, excess body fat can
actually be reduced by simply adding some ingredients into your diet. The most
beneficial for weight loss include:
1# Cumin
Cumin is a spice that contains a high content of
phytosterols, plant chemicals known to prevent the absorption of cholesterol in
the body. Similarly to other hot spices, cumin also stimulates metabolism. The
weight loss benefits of this spice were confirmed by a study conducted at Iran’s
Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, where 88 overweight or obese
women were randomly divided into 2 groups. Apart from nutrition counseling
which both groups received for 3 months, one group was given 3 grams (a little
less than 1 teaspoon) of cumin powder daily, mixed into 5 ounces of yogurt,
whereas the other (control) group was given the same, minus the cumin.
The results at the end of the trial were shocking as the
members of the cumin group lost three times more body fat percentage than those
in the control group.
2# Ginger
The health benefits of ginger, especially its anti-inflammatory
and pro-digestive properties are well-known around the world. This root is also
used as a slimming agent because its properties stimulate weight loss.
Moreover, its “thermogenic” effect activates the metabolism, thus making
it a strong fat and calorie-burner.
3# Lemon
The powerful medicinal properties of lemon promote health in
different ways. Just like cumin, this citrus fruit is also recognized as a
natural slimming agent. Its high vitamin C content makes it a potent
antioxidant that stimulates waste removal from the body, prevents fluid
retention, detoxifies the body and reduces bloating.
4# Honey
This natural sweetener contains many vitamins including
vitamin B2, B3, B5, B6 and C, minerals and carbohydrates. For one thing, honey
boosts energy levels and naturally suppresses cravings thus promoting weight
loss. Raw, organic, unheated and unprocessed honey, which is easily available
at any health food store, is the best one to use for this weight loss
treatment.
5# Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a powerful antioxidant, rich in manganese,
fiber, calcium and iron. It provides all the nutrients necessary to lose
weight. Moreover, it’s highly beneficial for controlling cholesterol levels in
the bod. It also regulates blood sugar levels thus fighting obesity and insulin
resistance (type 2 diabetes). It can be used either in the form of powder or
sticks. Ceylon cinnamon is the best type to treat weight loss.
FAT-BURNING RECIPE
If you fall into the overweight group or have just recently
decided to lose some pounds, we offer an amazing recipe that will not only
improve your metabolism, but also help you burn fat faster. This drink is ideal
for those who don’t have the time to exercise or follow a strict dietary
regime.
WHAT YOU NEED:
- Boiling Water – 1 cup
- Ground Cumin – 1 tsp.
- Lemon Peel – 2 pieces
- Cinnamon – ¼ tsp.
- Ginger – ½ tsp.
- Honey – 1 tbsp. (optional)
DIRECTIONS:
- Leaving honey aside, mix all the ingredients in a cup of boiling water. Mix well until they are well diluted.
- When the drink cools off, add the honey for sweetness or consume unsweetened.
- Drink on an empty stomach once a day.