Herbs

By on December 1st, 2008

Herbs have been used as a diet aid for years. Many Americans turn to herbs to supplement their diets or to promote weight loss.

Diet is not a dirty four-letter word but is instead a way of life. A wholesome diet is the key to a healthier lifestyle. Diabetes, sleep apnea, certain types of cancer, high blood pressure are weight related illnesses said to be caused by poor diet.

To determine if you are overweight you need to check your body mass index or (BMI). To do this divide your body weight by your height squared. If your BMI is 24 or less but greater than 17.5 you are within your ideal weight range. A body mass index of 25 or more indicates that you are overweight. A BMI of 40 or over indicates morbid obesity.

In the United States many people have a body mass index that is 25 or higher and are considered to be overweight. This phenomenon is blamed on everything from poor food choices to the advent of computers and an inactive lifestyle.

Whatever the cause, the fact remains that the American public is desperate to reduce our waistlines. To do so, we try fad diets that endanger our health, buy pills, try fake “metabolism busters” and do almost everything else we can to try to lose weight. We spend millions of dollars annually in our quest to find a magic formula for weight reduction.
Some Americans are overweight as children. Too many hours spent in front of the television or computer take their toll. Plus, children and teens often munch on snacks that are filled with calories and high sodium while watching television or playing video games. By puberty, many bad eating habits are deeply ingrained and must be unlearned.

The United States Department of Agriculture has developed a food pyramid to help guide us into making healthier food choices. Their latest food pyramid is simply called “MyPyramid”. It steers us toward a wholesome diet that is touted by many health professionals. The pyramid encourages us to eat a combination of whole grains with lots of fruits and vegetables and to consume only a small amount of meat substances, fats and sugar.

While food educators across the country tout this plan many of us will choose other ways to get to a healthy weight.

To lose weight some of the Americans will try herbs. Probably the most popular herb is green tea. It has long been popular in Eastern countries. Green tea contains disease-fighting antioxidants. There are also claims that green tea has fat burning capabilities, which aid in weight reduction.

Cayenne pepper is an herb that is becoming popular. It is said to safely increase metabolism and help with digestion.

Seaweed is being used more commonly. It acts as a natural thyroid stimulant and is nutrient rich.

But of course, before beginning any diet or adding herbs for weight loss, be sure to consult with your doctor. Your healthcare professional is your best source for medical advice.