A-Z weight loss Articles

7-keto-DHEA (commonly called "7-keto") is one form of 7-oxo-DHEA, and a by-product of the hormone dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). DHEA is the most abundant circulating steroid hormone in humans. It is produced by the adrenal glands as well as the ovaries and testes, and is a precursor to the production of both estrogens and testosterone. Interestingly, 7-keto-DHEA is one form of this hormone that is not converted to testosterone or estrogen in the body. Instead, it can be taken to speed metabolism and promote weight loss without directly altering hormone levels. 7-keto can also boost the thyroid gland, and is supposed to slow aging, boost memory and help build muscle.

Top 7-Keto Dhea Health Benefits

1. Weight Loss

7-keto has been shown to increase the resting metabolic rate by 4% of both men and women during a 7-day treatment protocol. Some research has found that this may be due to an association of 7-keto with thyroid hormone in the body. This association has been shown to temporarily increase thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroid hormone production. Other studies have revealed that 7-keto also causes the mitochondria (cell power plant) to be more easily stimulated, thus boosting their activity. This burns more calories and creates more heat in the body in a process called "thermogenesis". Thus supplementation with 7-keto can help to boost the thyroid and increase metabolism, both of which will aid weight loss.

2. PMS

Supplementation with 7-keto has been shown in laboratory studies to increase blood levels of one of the breakdown products of DHEA called 7-hydroxy-DHEA. This particular byproduct has been shown to decrease during the second half of the menstrual cycle. The decrease of 7-hydroxy-DHEA is thought to be associated with the mood changes involved in premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Thus, since 7-keto helps to prevent this dip in 7-hydroxy-DHEA levels, supplementation with 7-keto may help to reduce the mood symptoms of PMS. 7-keto has also been shown to reduce the levels of all sex hormones in the body, thus it may be beneficial in cases of excess hormone secretion, such as estrogen-dominant conditions like fibroids and fibrocystic breasts.

3. Cholesterol Benefits

In one study involving 10 elderly men, supplementation with 7-keto was found to reduce steroid hormone levels, and increase HDL ("good") cholesterol. Their risk for atherosclerosis fell after short-term treatment. The long-term effects have not yet been studied.

4. Raynaud's Disease

Raynaud's disease is a condition in which the body excessively constricts blood vessels in the extremities on exposure to cold. This results in extreme pain, and pale blotchy skin on the fingers and toes. 7-keto has been shown to help prevent Raynaud's attacks by increasing the basal metabolic rate and inhibiting vasospasm. It also promotes heat generation by the mitochondria of the cells, helping to maintain a higher body temperature during cold exposure.

How Can I Take 7-Keto-DHEA Supplements?

7-keto can be found in powdered form in caplets or combination formulas for weight loss. It has been tested as safe at 200mg daily for up to 4 weeks without any known side effects. The long-term effects of supplementation is not known.

Say hello to your gut's best friend. Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that offer support to your overall health. These beneficial microorganisms can be found in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kombucha and in supplements to help keep a healthy balance of bacteria in your body.

These bacteria work by colonizing your gut and promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria. They help restore and maintain a healthy microbiome, which is essential for proper digestion, immune function, and overall well-being.

Lifestyle, dietary choices and antibiotics can all disrupt the bacterial balance in your gut. Probiotics can help replenish the natural balance and produce substances that inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria, thereby reducing the risk of infections.

Top Health Benefits of Probiotics

It’s been found that probiotics help more than just your gut health. Research shows that aside from promoting digestive health, these microorganisms can also help alleviate skin issues, enhance cognition and boost the immune response. 

Gut Health

By supplying your gut with “good” bacteria, probiotics keep “bad” bacteria at bay. The good bacteria break down food particles and extract essential nutrients to help your body with digestion and nutrient absorption.

Furthermore, research shows that probiotics may help alleviate symptoms of gastrointestinal issues like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), allergies and diarrhea caused by antibiotics.

Cognitive Health

Aside from gut health, probiotics also enhance mental well-being. Because the gut-brain connection is so strong, it’s being looked at more and more, with studies finding that a healthy gut microbiome can have a positive effect on brain health, cognitive functioning and mood. 

Skin Health

It is said that your skin can tell the story of what’s going on inside your body, and that’s because your gut health can impact your skin. Whether you have breakouts, acne, dry skin or dermatitis, a lot of that can be linked to your gut health or inflammation in your gut. 

As previously mentioned, probiotics can help regulate the gut microbiome, which can have positive effects on your skin. By promoting a balanced gut microbiome, probiotics may help reduce inflammation and improve conditions such as acne, eczema, and rosacea. Additionally, probiotics may enhance the skin's natural barrier, protecting it against environmental factors and promoting a healthier complexion overall.

Immune Support

In addition to digestive health, probiotics have been linked to strengthening the immune system. Certain strains of probiotics can enhance the body's natural defence mechanisms and reduce the risk of respiratory infections and other common illnesses.

Best Probiotics For Women

Women's probiotics specifically cater to the unique needs of women's health. These probiotic supplements often contain strains that support vaginal health by maintaining a healthy pH balance and preventing the overgrowth of harmful bacteria. Additionally, women's probiotics may also provide immune-boosting properties that can help protect against common infections. Many women find these supplements beneficial for maintaining overall gut health while addressing specific concerns related to their vaginal health and reproductive system.

Who Should Consider Taking Probiotics?

Whether you’re looking to protect your gut health, boost your brain function, enhance your immune system or skin, or you have a health concern in any of these areas, like irritable bowel syndrome, dermatitis, or are prone to frequent colds and flu, probiotics may be beneficial for your needs.

Probiotic Supplement Varieties

Not only are there many differing strengths of probiotics, but there are also various strains which offer benefits for varying health concerns.

Probiotic supplements come in various strengths to accommodate different needs and preferences. If you have digestive issues such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or other gastrointestinal disorders, you may require higher potency formulations. On the other hand, if you simply want to maintain a healthy gut or support general well-being, you may opt for lower-strength options.

It is important to consult with a healthcare professional or follow product guidelines when selecting a suitable strength of probiotic supplement based on your requirements and goals.

Shopping For Quality Supplements

When shopping for quality probiotics, there are a few key factors to consider. 

Choose a reputable brand that has undergone rigorous testing and quality control measures. Look for products that contain a variety of strains of bacteria, as different strains have different benefits for the gut microbiome, this will ensure you’re getting a well-rounded product. 

It is also advisable to check the potency or CFU (colony-forming units) count of the probiotic supplement, as higher counts generally indicate a more potent product. 

Lastly, consider any specific needs or preferences you may have - for example, some people prefer vegan or gluten-free options and consider taking a prebiotic or enzyme supplement along with your probiotic. Consulting with a healthcare professional or knowledgeable team member at your favourite supplement store can also guide you in selecting the most suitable probiotic supplement for your individual needs.

Coleus forskohlii (Plectranthus barbatus) is a tropical plant in the mint family that has been used around the world for a variety of reasons, the most common being for cardiovascular ailments. More currently, this herb has been touted by Dr. Oz on his self-titled TV show as one of his favourite “belly blaster” supplements. This activity is due to the main constituent of Coleus forskohlii, known as forskolin, with its highest concentrations being in the root of the herb.

Forskolin and Cyclic AMP

The major action of forskolin is to rapidly activate a cellular enzyme called adenylyl cyclase. This enzyme is responsible for the synthesis of cyclic AMP (cAMP), which is a messenger molecule in our cells that helps to control their response to signals from the body. Some of these signals involve the regulation of glycogen, sugar, and lipid (fat) metabolism in the cell. Thus, through increasing the cellular production of cAMP, forskolin can help to boost the amount of fat and sugar used by the cells of the body. In a test tube, the application of forskolin has been shown to directly reduce the size of fat cells. This is promising for the ability of forskolin to help increase metabolism.

Key Health Benefits of Coleus Forskohlii

Weight Loss & Bone Health in Men

When tested in a group of overweight and obese men, supplementation of forskolin over a 12-week period was found to favourably alter their body composition. It reduced body fat percentages, and actually helped to improve bone mass. These results may be limited to men, but may be particularly useful in overweight men suffering from bone loss due to andropause.

Benefits For Asthma

One preliminary study found that forskolin was equally as effective as beclomethasone for the prevention of asthma attacks after two months of treatment in mild and moderate asthma sufferers. Further research is needed to be sure of the results, but daily supplementation with low dose forskolin may help to prevent some asthma attacks.

Shopping For & Taking Coleus Forskohlii Supplements

Coleus forskohlii can be found in tablets or in combination weight loss formulas. Research has established the dose in overweight men as 250mg of extract standardized to 10% forskolin, supplemented for at least 12 weeks. Dr. Oz recommends 125mg of extract standardized to 20% forskolin taken in the morning. Asthma research examined a dose of only 10mg daily.

With a long history of medicinal uses in Asia for asthma and bronchitis, ephedra has more recently received a lot of negative attention in the Western world for its use in weight loss and performance-enhancing supplements. With a lengthy list of potential side effects, its safety has come into question. The sale of ephedra-containing products has been banned in the US since 2004 and, while still legal, in Canada, it is sold only under strict legislative rules.

What is Ephedra?

Ephedra is a medicinal preparation of plant Ephedra sinica which grows in dry climates throughout the northern hemisphere.

In Asia, it is commonly known as mahuang. It is usually the branches and tops of the plant that are used to make medicines, but the root and the whole plant can also be used. The active ingredients are the alkaloids ephedrine and pseudoephedrine. These constituents have stimulant and decongestant properties and are chemically related to amphetamine. Because of its stimulant action, ephedra has several potentially adverse side-effects which has raised safety concerns. For this reason, ephedra is now banned in the United States, and its sale is strictly controlled in Canada.

Key Health Benefits of Ephedra

For over five thousand years, this nutrient has been safely used in Traditional Chinese Medicine as a treatment for colds, flu, and fevers as well as other lung conditions such as allergies, bronchitis and asthma. Beginning in the 1980s, the use of ephedra became popular among athletes and bodybuilders as a way to improve athletic performance. At around the same time, ephedra began being touted as a weight loss supplement and as a treatment to help combat obesity especially when combined with other stimulants such as caffeine.

How Does Ephedra Work In Your Body?

The primary action of ephedra (and ephedrine) is as a central nervous system stimulant. It is more powerful than caffeine, but less potent than amphetamines. It mimics the sympathetic nervous system which is partially responsible for the innate `fight or flight` response. This stimulant action increases heart rate, constricts blood vessels which increases blood pressure, increases metabolic rate, and relaxes the smooth muscles of our respiratory tract which expands bronchioles and makes breathing easier. 

This stimulant action also suppresses appetite. Similarly, ephedra is classified as a thermogenic agent, meaning it increases body temperature, induces sweating, and increases energy expenditure by raising metabolism. These actions also account for the use of ephedra to enhance sports performance. The stimulant effects improve strength and endurance exercise, increase alertness and aggressiveness, and reduce fatigue.

Potential Side Effects

The stimulant action of ephedra causes several potentially harmful side effects such as skin reactions, irritability, nervousness, dizziness, trembling, headache, insomnia, dehydration, vomiting, hypothermia and more serious events such as irregular heartbeat, seizures, heart attack, stroke, and even death. A study performed by the National Institute of Health looked at over 16,000 reports of adverse effects of ephedra and found that at least 2 deaths, 9 strokes, 4 heart attacks, 1 seizure, and 5 psychiatric cases involved the direct use of the supplement even at the recommended safe doses.

Ephedra is classified as a performance-enhancing drug and is banned by many athletic associations such as the International Olympic Committee, the National Basketball Association, and the National Football League. Despite this, it is still widely used illegally among professional athletes, sometimes with deadly consequences.

Other Important Information

Ephedra is banned in the United States and despite multiple appeals by the supplement industry, it remains illegal to manufacture and sell any ephedrine-containing supplements.

In Canada, it is authorized only for use in decongestants. Products containing this nutrient are legal but come with very strict legislative restrictions regarding marketing and labelling.

Products with unproven claims regarding weight loss, bodybuilding, or athletic performance are not permitted and they cannot be combined with any other stimulants such as caffeine, green tea, or guarana. Dosage is strictly controlled; supplements cannot exceed 400mg/dose or 1600mg/day of ephedra or 8mg/dose or 32mg/day of ephedrine.

A fad in the weight loss industry that continues to make periodic appearances is the use and benefits of Hcg in achieving weight loss goals. In its natural state, the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) is released by a pregnant woman's placenta. It is the pregnancy hormone that alters the hormone release of the new mother to keep her body in a hospitable environment for the growth of her child. This is the hormone that is tested for in the urine and will turn a home pregnancy test positive. In the supplement industry, the supplement version of this hormone is written as "HCG".

Key Benefits of Hcg Supplements

Fertility Benefits of Hcg

When injected, hCG can be used to induce ovulation in women and sperm production in men. In some cases, it can also be used to support the production of progesterone in women. From all of this, we can see that the use of hCG has major effects on hormone balance in both men and women. These results have not been shown with oral supplementation.

Weight Loss Benefits of Hcg

There is limited research on the use and benefits of supplemental Hcg for weight loss. The only available related evidence involves a group of people on extremely low-calorie diets, that were also injected with low-dose hCG. These people lost fat rather than lean muscle, and later this evidence was used to recommend this treatment to overweight individuals. 

Unfortunately, the US Food and Drug Administration and the Journal of the American Medical Association have stated that Hcg supplements are ineffective for weight loss and may not even be safe for use. In general, most people cite the restricted calorie intake of the diet in the studies mentioned above (1/3 – 1/5 of normal caloric intake) as the means of weight loss, and do not attribute its effects to Hcg supplementation. This product is widely considered by both the medical and naturopathic communities as a debunked weight loss myth.

Potential Side Effects of Hcg

In addition to lacking evidence of effectiveness, Hcg is a human hormone and will directly affect the endocrine system. Because of this, it can cause alterations in other hormone levels such as progesterone and testosterone. These shifts can have several side effects, including: 

• Mood swings
• Headaches
• Tender breasts
• Swelling
• Water retention
• Depression
• Gout
• Risk of blood clots

This is all in addition to the massive nutrient deficiencies involved in a 500 calorie-a-day diet, which will take a toll on health as well, that can not be sustained over time and that will likely result in a massive weight gain when normal calories are resumed. 

Shopping For Hcg

It is difficult to get HCG because many governments are cracking down on its use. Because of the risks associated with this substance, and the extreme diet required in conjunction with its use, it is probably better to use other weight loss supplements instead. Of course, diet and exercise will always play the biggest role in any successful weight loss plan. 

The Hoodia craze started in the early 2000s and became a big deal for the weight loss industry, however, in the last few years the excitement surrounding this herb has cooled off. Some people haven’t even heard of it and supplements containing Hoodia have been hard to find recently. Read on to find out why this extremely popular supplement has fallen out of the spotlight.

What is Hoodia?

Hoodia gordonii (HG), better known as simply, Hoodia, is a cactus-like succulent plant that is native to South Africa. This unique plant has flowers that smell like meat and are pollinated by flies. What’s even more interesting, is that this plant has a long history of use by indigenous people of South Africa to elevate energy levels, while suppressing appetite on long hunting trips in the Kalahari desert. In 2003, this plant was first reported on by the BBC and interest in its possible appetite-suppressant qualities surged. The demand for it was so large that several countries imposed a protection status for this plant. It can now only be wild-harvested by individuals and companies require permits for the collection, cultivation, transportation and export of Hoodia in South Africa.

Top Health Benefits & Uses For Hoodia

The San, an indigenous tribe in South Africa, have used HG as an appetite suppressant and as a treatment for indigestion and minor infections for thousands of years.

While clinical evidence is inconclusive and few studies have been carried out on Hoodia, it has been marketed as a herbal supplement for weight loss and suppressing appetite.

Key Active Ingredients in Hoodia & How They Interact With Your Body

The appetite-suppressant effects of HG have not been verified by human clinical trials. However, the San tribe in South Africa have been using it for thousands of years to suppress appetite and historical use can not be ignored. Preliminary research in rats has shown that Hoodia caused weight reduction in obese rats and decreased food intake was noted.

Interestingly, the proposed active ingredient in HG, P57, was isolated in 1977 by the South African Council for Scientific and Industrial Research and was then patented in 1995. However, at this time, P57 is not well understood and how it works as an appetite suppressant is unknown. Pharmaceutical companies interested in HG have yet to harness and understand its potential appetite-suppressant qualities.

Some studies have shown that P57 reduces acid secretion in the stomach by approximately 50% and can protect the stomach against aspirin-induced damage.

Where To Buy This Herb

There is a great deal of interest in Hoodia’s potential for treating obesity, however, there are many political interests involved, including the rights of the San people to the information and profits surrounding Hoodia. Protecting the plant and the rights of the San have halted the widespread distribution of this herb.

Also, there is controversy surrounding the purity of Hoodia supplements. Since HG has become a protected plant, it is now exclusively exported from cultivation and cultivation seems to change the active ingredients of the plant. At this time it is not known if cultivated Hoodia has the same potential appetite suppressant effects as the wild-harvested Hoodia. Therefore, getting a quality Hoodia supplement is difficult.

Potential Side Effects & Cautions

There is some evidence that HG might cause minor side effects such as headache, dizziness, giddiness, nausea, and unusual skin sensations. Also, there is concern that hoodia might increase blood pressure and heart rate.

Hydroxycitric acid (HCA) is a derivative of citric acid that is found in select tropical plants, including Garcinia Cambogia and Hibiscus subdariffa.

It is also a common ingredient in Indian and Thai food, as a condiment and flavouring agent, in curries and chutneys.

Key Benefits & Uses of Hydroxycitric Acid

HCA and weight loss

HCA has recently been included in a variety of weight loss supplements based on research that suggests it plays a role in lipid metabolism and glucose absorption. Animal studies have shown that hydroxycitric acid can delay intestinal glucose absorption, preventing spikes in blood sugar and therefore the need for the body to produce high levels of insulin. Large and fast spikes in blood sugar can be correlated with a higher risk of obesity. A slower release of glucose and insulin also means satiety is longer lasting, leaving you feeling full for longer periods. These studies have not been conducted on humans and as of yet, these blood sugar-regulating and appetite-blocking effects are only speculative.

Hydroxycitric Acid & Cholesterol Support

Studies are also suggesting that HCA can have a positive effect on lipid profiles, reducing total cholesterol, LDL lipoproteins, triglycerides and serum leptin levels. Leptin circulates in the body at levels that are directly proportional to body fat, also referred to as the ‘full hormone’ it has been shown to send signals to the brain that the body has had enough to eat. In these same studies, HCA has also been shown to increase HDL cholesterol levels and excretion of urinary fat metabolites. Some researchers believe it exerts these lipid-regulating effects by inhibiting an enzyme in the body that converts carbohydrates to fat for storage. Further studies need to be conducted to validate these studies.

Shopping Tips For Quality Hydroxycitric Acid Supplements

HCA can be found as a component of many weight loss combinations, most commonly in capsule form. It is also available as a part of a proprietary blend of herbs aimed at weight loss, called Citrimax. Garcinia cambogia, or tamarind, is a small fruit that contains HCA extract in its rind and may be the source of HCA in many supplements. Supplements containing garcinia cambogia may be labelled as GCE.

HCA Supplement Dosage and Safety Information

Guidelines for dosage range from 500-1000 mg before meals, up to a maximum dose of 3000 mg/day.

There is very little information about the safety of HCA, or Citrimax for use as a supplement. The little we do know suggests that supplements containing HCA should be used with caution. Some individuals using products that contained HCA experienced severe liver damage, while others reported cardiovascular, neurological, gastrointestinal and respiratory problems while taking supplements containing HCA or garcinia cambogia. In 2009, the US Food and Drug Administration issued warnings against many products containing high amounts of HCA for these reasons.

Individuals who are taking medications for diabetes should use HCA with caution or speak with a health professional before using. It may also exacerbate muscle degeneration in individuals taking statin medications, which are known to cause rhabdomyolysis in some individuals. There is also the possibility that HCA may worsen dementia and Alzheimer’s disease and should not be used by individuals already dealing with these conditions.

Simply put, (konjac) glucomannan absorbs water as it travels through the digestive tract, increasing the bulk of the stool and making the stool easier to pass or move through the colon. For individuals prone to constipation, this means less straining and a decreased risk of fissures or haemorrhoid formation. Many use glucomannan as a weight loss aid, in that it helps to get rid of excess water weight.

Konjac: A Rich Source of Fibre

Konjac promotes regular and healthy elimination and is an effective method of getting rid of excess toxins and hormones, including cholesterol, in the body. Efficient removal of these substances may give an individual more energy, make them less sluggish and fatigued (common side effects of toxic overload) and more apt to increase their exercise and eat a healthier, more well-balanced diet. All of which further contribute to weight loss. Studies have also shown that taking a glucomannan supplement one hour before eating can reduce caloric intake and keep individuals satisfied longer when compared with a placebo.

Konjac Root Key Health Benefits

Blood Sugar Support

(Konjac) Glucomannan, much like any fibre, is also helpful in regulating blood sugar levels and can be beneficial for individuals with diabetes. Diabetics need to be cautious when taking glucomannan, as it may interfere with insulin and other blood sugar medications. This product needs to be taken 2-3 hours away from any medication and blood sugar levels should be monitored closely in case there is a need to adjust dosages for prevention of hyper or hypoglycemic states.

Reduces Glycemic Index of Food

Konjac root is particularly useful for reducing the glycemic index of foods. "Glycemic index" refers to how quickly a carbohydrate is metabolized by the body. When a food is described as having a lower glycemic index, this means that it will cause a lower increase in blood sugar than foods with a higher glycemic index (GI). Taken with food, konjac/glucomannan effectively slows the release of the sugars in the food down, allowing the body more time to burn the calories they contain as energy instead of storing them as body fat. This is part of the reason why Konjac is recommended as a weight loss supplement.

It also helps to reduce the fluctuations in blood sugar that can occur when you eat unhealthy carbs that can lead to cravings and subsequent poor food choices and weight gain.

Quality Konjac Supplement Varieties

Konjac is available under a variety of trade names such as PGX, GO4Trim, FiberFlow, as well as simply konjac and glucomannan.

Important Considerations & Potential Side Effects

Health Canada has put out an advisory on (konjac) Glucomannan supplements in any form, stating that individuals need to take each gram of glucomannan with at least 8 oz of water to reduce the risk of choking or developing a blockage in the throat, esophagus or intestines. For these reasons, it is also recommended that these products be taken 2-3 hours before bed. Glucomannan can be taken on its own in capsule or powder form or is often combined with other forms of dietary fibre.

Medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) are a form of saturated fat found most commonly in coconut oil and to a lesser extent, palm kernel oil. Despite the negative press saturated fats have received, MCT seems to be the exception. Offering a host of health benefits, MCT oil is also the most easily and rapidly absorbed fat that requires virtually no energy to break down.

What Is MCT Oil? 

Most dietary fats come in the form of triglycerides made up of three fatty acid chains (tri-) attached to a glycerol backbone (-glyceride). Each kind of fat is differentiated by the makeup of its fatty acid chains. The characteristics of these chains determine the effect a particular fat will have on the body. While fats are commonly classified as saturated or unsaturated, they can also be classified based on the length of their respective fatty acid chains. MCTs are a class of fats composed of medium chains of 6-10 fatty acid units, hence their name. These are the least common fats in the diet 98% of the fats we consume are long-chain fatty acids (LCFA). There are three kinds of MCT: caprylic acid, capric acid, and lauric acid. The most abundant natural sources of these fats are coconut oil and palm kernel oil.

Key Health Benefits of MCT Oil

The unique properties of MCT oil have been shown to have benefits for health for a variety of conditions. Historically, the most common use of these fats has been for providing a source of nutrition via IV to those who were unable to eat during a hospital stay. They are also often used for those who are unable to assimilate fat from the diet properly as with pancreatitis, or to promote weight gain in those with wasting diseases such as Crohn’s, Ulcerative Colitis, Cystic fibrosis etc. 

More recently, studies have begun to examine the benefits of MCT oil for weight loss and fat breakdown. It has been shown that those who supplement with MCT store less fat and have a higher metabolic rate which further promotes the breakdown of already stored fat.

A diet supplemented with MCT results in increased production of ketone bodies which can be used as an alternative fuel source for the brain and body. It is the basis of the popular Ketogenic diet, high in protein and low in carbohydrates, commonly used among athletes. MCT can be used for a quick burst of energy and has been shown to help with endurance. This feature may also be responsible for its benefits in helping manage symptoms of epilepsy and degenerative brain diseases. A significant number of studies have shown that increased circulating levels of ketones drastically reduce seizure occurrence and serve as an alternate fuel source for the undernourished brains of those with neurodegenerative issues. 

Understand How MCT Oil Works For Your Health

MCT oil is digested differently than other dietary fats. Because of their smaller size, they are absorbed right away and travel directly to the liver where they are immediately used as a source of fuel and energy. This process is known as passive absorption and requires little to no energy for the body to accomplish. Other fats are so large that enzymes from the pancreas are necessary to break them down. Instead of being used right away, they are transported through the lymphatic system depositing fats along the way. This explains the use of MCT for quick nutrition in those who are not getting enough fats in their regular diets or are suffering from wasting diseases such as Crohn’s and ulcerative Colitis as mentioned above. 

The unique method of digestion of MCT has benefits for weight loss as well. They help the process of excess calorie burning, promote fat oxidation, and promote reduced food intake. The immediate use of fuel burns fat at a higher rate, resulting in increased energy production. Further, because they are rarely stored as fat, MCT results in less overall body fat.

One of the breakdown products of fats is ketone bodies. These, along with glucose (from the breakdown of carbohydrates), are used as a fuel and energy source by the brain and body. The breakdown of MCT results in higher production of ketone bodies per unit than any other dietary fat. It is this function that is responsible for the use of MCT as a possible treatment for epilepsy, as a rapid fuel source for athletes, and as an alternate nutrition source for the brains of Alzheimer’s patients.

Tips For Adding MCT To Your Diet

MCT can be increased through the diet with the direct consumption of coconut or palm kernel oil, or it can be extracted from these sources and concentrated into a liquid supplement form known simply as MCT. Either way, no more than 1-3 tablespoons are required daily. Coconut oil is the easiest and most accessible natural food source. As with most oils, look for one that is extra virgin and cold-pressed, preferably organic.

New research has linked the health of the bacteria living in your intestines to your ability to lose weight. If you are struggling with losing weight, you may be suffering from a bacterial imbalance in your gut.

What are Healthy Bacteria?

Most people know that they have bacteria living in their intestines. Again, most people have heard of "healthy bacteria" and "bad bacteria" and know that you should supplement with healthy bacteria when you take an antibiotic. Many medical doctors even suggest you take a probiotic after taking an antibiotic.

However, did you know that we are just scratching the surface of understanding what health bacteria really are and what they really do?

We have 4 pounds of bacteria living in our gut and they influence much more than digestion. They boost immunity, healthy mood and protect against chronic disease. The exciting news is that we've now discovered that healthy bacteria will promote weight loss!

How Your Gut Bacteria Can Effect Weight Loss

In her new book, The Skinny Gut Diet, Brenda Watson CNC discusses how your gut bacteria can make you fat. She talks about "gut balance" and how it's important for the healthy bacteria to outnumber the bad bacteria in your intestines. When the bacteria are out of balance, then dysbiosis occurs and dysbiosis has been linked to many health conditions like autism, heart disease, diabetes and now obesity.

It turns out that the gut bacteria found in obese people differs from lean people and having the wrong balance of gut bacteria can make you fat. We are learning that the gut bacteria found in obese persons are more efficient at extracting calories from food passing through the digestive tract. So that means you may be getting more calories from the same meal compared to your thinner friend. If you've been battling your weight for a long-time, then changing your gut bacterial balance may just be the answer your looking for.

Scientific Evidence On Gut Bacteria & Weight Loss

A recent scientific study has changed how we understand gut bacteria. Jeffery Gordon's team of researchers at Washington University performed an eye opening study with mice. They found that when they transferred the gut bacteria from conventionally raised, genetically obese mice into the digestive tracts of germ-free mice, the germ-free mice became obese. This is significant because the researchers discovered that intestinal bacterial imbalance could be a cause of obesity. Until this study was done, intestinal bacterial imbalance was believed to only be the result of being obese and eating a poor diet. The researchers also found that the obese mice had a 50% reduction in the abundance of bacteria that keep you lean, called Bacteroidetes and a proportional increase in the bacteria that keep you fat, called the Firmicutes.

Did you catch that? Researchers have discovered that there are two main groups of bacteria in your gut and the ratio of these two groups determines whether or not you will be more likely to gain weight. In her book, Brenda Watson calls the Firmicutes the "Fat Bacteria" and the Bacteroidetes the "Be Skinny Bacteria". The "fat bacteria" are really good at extracting extra calories from food, so losing weight means you need to increase the "be skinny bacteria".

Another interesting study was done by Vanessa Ridaura, a graduate student in Gordon's lab. The researchers transplanted stool from 4 pairs of female twins into germ-free mice. In each pair of twins, one twin was lean and one was obese. The mice were fed the same low-fat, high-fiber diet and it was found that the mice who received gut bacteria from the obese twin gained more fat that the mice who received gut bacteria from the lean twin.

How To Balance Gut Bacteria To Lose Weight?

If you are concerned that your gut bacteria are out of balance, especially if you are overweight, there's good news! You can quickly influence your own gut bacteria through diet, lifestyle and supplements.

Eating a diet that supports healthy bacteria is important. Eating healthy fats, eating high-fiber whole foods and eating protein with every meal and snack, will support the healthy bacteria in your gut. Healthy bacteria like brightly coloured vegetables and fruits because they supply the bacteria with prebiotics. Cutting out sugar, processed carbohydrates and unhealthy fats will starve the bad bacteria because they thrive on these damaging foods. Remember, it's about balancing your gut bacteria so more healthy bacteria live in your intestines.

You can also use probiotic supplements to balance your gut bacteria and promote weight loss. Choose one that contains at least 30 billion cultures per capsule and contains at least 10 different strains of bacteria. Also, look for high amounts of Bifidobacterium to support the large intestine and Lactobacillus to support the small intestine. Be sure to choose a probiotic that

has a specialized capsule or is acid resistant so that the bacteria are not damaged by the harsh stomach acid and will get to the intestines.

In recent months Dr. Oz has touted raspberry ketones as a miracle fat-burner on his self-titled show. He explains it as a substance that "tricks your body into acting like it's thin" by increasing the levels of a hormone called adiponectin. Since this hormone is naturally expressed in higher levels in people who are naturally thin, Dr. Oz says that they can "help your body think it's thin".

What Are Raspberry Ketones?

Ketone is the term used to refer to a particular chemical bond, and any molecule that contains that bond. A ketone bond is very reactive, which can allow the aromatization of a molecule containing it.

Aromatization means that we can sense the molecule as a smell. Raspberry ketones are a major aromatic compound in red raspberries, and thus they are responsible for the smell of raspberries. Because of this function, they have been used in cosmetics and perfumes as a scent since the 1960's. Naturally extracted raspberry ketones exist at about 1-4mg per kilogram of red raspberries. It would not be possible to eat enough raspberries to get a physiologically active dose. Because of this, naturally extracted raspberry ketones are extremely expensive, and so commercially available varieties are often synthesized in a lab.

Weight Loss Benefits of Raspberry Ketones

Dr. Oz's advice is based on two research studies involving mice that were fed high fat diets and high doses of raspberry ketones (1-2% of food weight). These mice failed to gain as much weight as other mice on the same diet. When examined, it was found that the mice fed these ketones had higher levels of the hormone adpionectin. Another study also found that they promoted the breakdown of fat inside the fat cells to increase weight loss of mice. Thus, raspberry ketones have been established as body-fat-reducing in mice.

Promising Research

The initial research on these ketones appears very promising. Unfortunately, because there are no human studies, it is not possible to say that the effects in mice will also be seen in humans. Although mice are a good initial test group to examine a general idea of function and safety, they are genetically different from us and do not always react the same way humans do to the same substances. Further research using humans is required to know the safety and efficacy of raspberry ketones in humans.

How Fast Do They Work?

On the show Dr. Oz explains that results can be seen in a few days, and will progressively increase over time. There are no research studies to back up his claim at this time. Dr. Oz also stressed that these are not "magic pills" and that raspberry ketones have to be combined with a healthy diet and exercise to produce significant weight loss.

Taking Raspberry Ketone Supplements

There is no established safe dose for this particular supplement. On Dr. Oz's show a dose of between 100 and 200mg at breakfast was recommended to help support weight loss when combined with diet and exercise. Despite the lack of research, because raspberry ketones are extracted from the fruit, they are generally considered safe.

Since Dr. Oz did his Yacon Syrup Project, everyone’s been buzzing about this sweet sugar substitute with the potential to aid in weight loss! This is great news for those struggling to regulate blood sugar. That's right, diabetics can enjoy yacon syrup! It's low on the glycemic index and therefore does not increase blood sugar levels. It is also low-calorie and all-natural, so the nasty side effects associated with many artificial sweeteners are not an issue here.

Although this is not a new product (Yacon has been used in Peruvian communities for thousands of years), we are learning more and more about its many health benefits, and it's quickly become a hot item and is flying off the shelves at National Nutrition!

What is Yacon?

The Yacon is a member of the Asteraceae family, close to the sunflower, and native to the Andean region of South America. The yacon itself looks very similar to a potato, but tastes more like an apple! The tuberous root is boiled down to produce a syrup that is often compared to molasses.

Advantages of Yacon Syrup

The Yacon is high in insulin, a complex sugar that breaks down slowly into /articles/supplements/fos-prebiotic/. In fact, the Yacon has one of the highest concentrations of FOS in any plant. For those not familiar with FOS, it is a term that has become synonymous with prebiotic, meaning it helps to stimulate our own production of probiotic bacteria in the gut. FOS is non-digestible and resistant to gastric acidity and enzymatic processes that break down what we consume. This means it travels untouched to the large intestine, where it selectively stimulates the growth of intestinal bacteria (selective b/c it increases the bacteria we need, in the amounts we need it!). A balanced gut flora promotes a healthy immune system and regulates digestion.

Inulin is also considered a soluble fibre, known for its ability to help balance blood sugar levels, as well as lower cholesterol. Yacon is also an excellent source of minerals, including potassium, calcium, phosphorus, and iron, as well as 20 amino acids. Again, of great benefit to diabetics in particular, yacon syrup is naturally sweet, with an extremely low glycemic index (almost 0), meaning there's no spike in blood sugar levels after consumption.

Using Yacon Syrup

If you are trying to cut down on more refined or artificial sugars, yacon syrup is a natural and healthy alternative. It can be used in coffee/ tea, mixed in your morning oatmeal or granola , or used in baking as you would sugar, honey, molasses, or maple syrup. Like anything, make sure you test out how sweet yacon syrup is on its own before baking with it. It is considered sweeter than sugar, so you may not want to substitute it one for one. Given the numerous health benefits, it's worth trying! - You wouldn't want to miss out on the new WONDER FOOD, would you?!

Shopping For Alternative Sweeteners

Health food stores, including National Nutrition. It typically comes in glass jars or bottles, similar to honey. Check out our selection of Yacon Syrup alternative sweeteners.