Supplements That May Boost Weight-loss

There are many ads on weight-loss supplements and remedies promising to help you lose weight. Many of these entice those who desperately have tried to lose weight and want a quick fix. No matter how good the supplement or weight-loss remedy may be, these should be combined with eating a low glycemic diet, eliminating bad habits and exercising. Also, before taking any supplements you should consult your physician and do your research.
Here are a few supplements that have been used for weight-loss:
• TLS Core – One of the main ingredients of Core is White kidney bean extract - Inhibits the enzymes that normally breakdown starch into glucose within the small intestine. White kidney bean extract uses a calculated approach to affect the utilization of carbohydrates once they enter the body. As a result, the absorption of glucose from high glycemic, carbohydrate rich foods, such as bread, potatoes, white rice and pasta is inhibited. This gives you an advantage by minimizing the effects of excess carbohydrates that are waiting to be converted into fat within the body.
• TLS Core also contains - Green Tea Extract – According to WebMD, previous animal studies showed that green tea extract increased thermogenesis, which is the generation of body heat that occurs as a result of normal digestion, absorption, and metabolization of food. In previous human studies, the consumption of green tea increased thermogenesis as well as energy expenditure and fat loss in healthy men, suggesting that green tea in liquid or capsule form may be an effective way to aid weight loss.
• TLS Thermocrome with Hoodia Gordonii - is a succulent plant that grows in the Kalahari Desert in southern Africa. Hoodia was used in Africa to help control hunger during long hunts. However, there are no scientifically proven studies to prove that Hoodia is an effective tool for weight-loss, although many claim that it has helped them. It also contains Advantra Z® Citrus Aurantium – it is the only patented Citrus aurantium extract for weight loss and physical performance on the market today. This ingredient serves as an ideal alternative to the herb, ma huang/Ephedra. Citrus Aurantium, also known as Bitter Orange extract, is most commonly used to help control appetite and to support normal digestion. Research shows it promotes a healthy metabolic rate (thermogenesis) without affecting heart rate or blood pressure unlike ma huang/ephedra. It helps the body to build lean muscle, helps increase physical performance by making fat available for energy and stimulates weight loss by promoting thermogenesis.
• Coconut Oil - Coconut oil is has been found in studies to be useful in weight-loss. It is
easy to digest and it assists in healthy functioning of the thyroid and enzymes systems. Further, it increases the body metabolism by removing stress on pancreases, thereby burning out more energy and helping obese and overweight people reduce their weight. It also helps in controlling blood sugar and improves the secretion on insulin. There are several other benefits of consuming coconut oil.

This is just a brief look at some of the supplements that have been known to help with reducing weight. If you want to learn more, supplementation information is a part of my Transitions class, along with education on nutrition and exercise. Contact me for more information about my upcoming class in August.

Overcoming Barriers to Fitness

Sticking to a regular exercise routine isn't easy. There are many potential hindrances — time, boredom, injuries, self-confidence, etc. If you are serious about leading a healthy lifestyle, you will not allow these issues to stand in your way. Let’s talk about some practical strategies for overcoming common barriers to fitness.

Barriers No. 1
I don't have enough time to exercise. Setting aside time to exercise can be a challenge. Use a little creativity to get the most out of your time. Squeeze in some short walks, runs or both throughout the day.
• Get up earlier. If your days are jam-packed and the evening hours are just as hectic, get up 30 minutes earlier twice a week to exercise. Once you've adjusted to early-morning workouts, add another day or two to the routine and soon you will have more energy and won’t feel good about missing!
• Drive less, walk more. Park in the farthest row of the parking lot or even a few blocks away and walk to your destination.
• Revamp your rituals. Instead of chilling out the whole weekend plan some activities such as bike riding, rock climbing or hiking.
Barrier No. 2
I think exercise is boring. It’s natural to become bored doing the same workout day after day, especially doing it alone. Exercise can be fun if you find something and someone you enjoy.
• Vary your workouts. Rotate among several activities such as fitness classes, running, biking, etc.
• Team Up. Exercise with friends, relatives, neighbors or co-workers. You may even consider hiring a coach or personal trainer.
• Explore new options. Learn new skills while getting in a workout. Check out exercise classes, a recreation center or fitness center.
Barrier No. 3
I’m self-conscious about the way I look. Don’t talk yourself out of working out because of the way you look or your lack of experience. Remind yourself of what a great favor your doing for your cardiovascular health, and over all well being.
• Avoid the crowd. If you're uncomfortable exercising around others, go solo at first. Try an exercise video, or consider investing in a stationary bicycle, treadmill, or elliptical machine.
• Focus on the future. Praise yourself for making a commitment to your health. And remember that as you become fitter and more comfortable exercising, your self-confidence is likely to improve as well.

Next week I will discuss more barriers that may have kept you from exercising. I encourage you to be an over comer and give it a try – what do you have to lose, except maybe some weight and inches!