If you’re trying to shed pounds, it’s possible that certain hidden factors might be messing with your weight loss efforts. Take a look at several problems shown to thwart weight loss and the natural approaches that could serve as your solutions. Also, learn about natural supplements that are sometimes recommended in alternative medicine for weight loss.

Weight Loss Approaches

Hidden Factors That Can Prevent Weight Loss - Here’s a look at several hidden factors shown to prevent weight loss, and a few natural approaches that could help.

Reduce Belly Fat Naturally - Research suggests that certain natural solutions may help reduce belly fat. Here’s a look at several study findings.

Inflammation and Weight Gain - In recent years, a number of studies have shown that weight gain may be linked to chronic inflammation. Here are natural approaches that may help to reduce inflammation while supporting weight loss.

Natural Support for Obesity Prevention - Certain alternative therapies may be beneficial when it comes to obesity prevention.

Supplements

Bitter Orange - Bitter orange is purported to help treat constipation, indigestion, heartburn, loss of appetite, and nasal congestion, as well as promote weight loss.

Capsaicin - Capsaicin, a natural substance sourced from chili peppers, is said to speed up metabolism and reduce fat tissue, as well as curb overeating by taming appetite.

Chia - Find out whether chia may help you slim down and stay healthy.

Chitosan - Often marketed as a natural weight loss aid, chitosan is a dietary supplement made from the shells of crustaceans (such as crabs, shrimp, and lobster).

CLA - Proponents claim that CLA can reduce fat while building muscle, as well as keep cholesterol in check.

DHEA - Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a steroid hormone that’s produced by the adrenal glands.

Fucoxanthin - Fucoxanthin is a type of carotenoid found naturally in edible brown seaweed such as wakame and hijiki, which are used widely in Asian cuisine. It is also found in much smaller amounts in red seaweed.

Hoodia - Much of hoodia’s popularity stems from claims that the San Bushmen of the Kalahari desert in Africa relied on hoodia for thousands of years to ward off hunger and thirst during long hunting trips.

Probiotics - By consuming these live microorganisms, proponents claim, overweight people can correct bacterial imbalances thought to contribute to weight gain.

Psyllium - One popular natural remedy for weight loss is psyllium, a plant that produces seeds rich in fiber.

Spirulina - Spirulina is a type of blue-green algae available in dietary supplement form.

Triphala - A blend of three botanicals, triphala is a popular remedy in ayurveda (the traditional medicine in India).

Vitamin D - Some research suggests that running low on vitamin D might increase your risk of obesity, while taking vitamin D supplements may help promote weight loss and weight maintenance.

Diets and Food

Green Tea - If weight loss is one of your top health goals, green tea may help.

Oolong Tea - Several studies indicate that oolong tea may help promote weight loss.

Shirataki Noodles - What are shirataki noodles? I’ve heard they’re the latest diet food but find it hard to believe that eating noodles could help with weight loss. Isn’t it counter-intuitive?

Therapies

Acupuncture - Some proponents of acupuncture suggest that the needle-based alternative therapy can help promote weight loss.

Hypnosis - Hypnosis is a mind-body technique often purported to promote weight loss.

Yoga - In the quest for weight loss, many people turn to yoga (an age-old mind-body practice that combines physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation).

Using Natural Remedies for Weight Loss

Due to the limited research, it’s too soon to recommend any natural remedy for weight loss. It’s also important to note that self-treating a condition and avoiding or delaying standard care may have serious consequences. If you’re considering using alternative medicine for weight loss (or any health purpose), make sure to consult your physician first.

[by Michael Devitt For Massage Today](http:// massagetoday.com/mpacms/mt/article.php?id=13205)