Managing your weight doesn’t have to be as daunting as it might seem. You don’t need to dive into complicated weight loss strategies that involve advanced exercises or taking mysterious pills with artificial ingredients. It’s possible to shed a few pounds naturally with everyday items you might already have at home. Here are the top 10 natural appetite suppressants that could help you lose weight at your own pace:
1. Red Pepper
Also known as Capsicum, red pepper is a popular spice in American cuisine. Whether on pizza or steak, adding red pepper flakes can make your food more flavorful. Interestingly, red pepper can also help control your appetite. Research from Purdue University suggests that including red pepper in your diet can help reduce hunger and boost calorie burning. In fact, a study from Laval University in Canada found that consuming red pepper can decrease appetite and energy intake.
2. Grapefruit Essential Oil
Extracted from the citrus fruit grapefruit, this essential oil is known more for its health benefits than its taste. By adding a few drops to a glass of water, you can use this oil to help curb cravings for unhealthy snacks like burgers or fries.
3. Hot Sauce
Made from various peppers such as red pepper, ghost pepper, or chili pepper, hot sauce is a great natural appetite suppressant. It encourages you to eat less and helps enhance your body’s fat-burning capability. Try adding hot sauce to dishes like pasta, steak, or even burgers to help manage your appetite.
4. Green Tea Extract
Green tea has gained popularity as a natural health supplement for weight loss, and with good reason. Itβs recognized by the National Institute of Health as an effective weight loss aid. Regular intake can increase energy use and fat burning while lowering fat creation and absorption. If you experience any side effects like constipation or discomfort, it’s best to consult a dietician.
5. Coffee
For those who aren’t sensitive to caffeine, coffee can be a great way to stay energetic and reduce weight. The caffeine in coffee boosts metabolism and energy, which can help reduce food intake. Drinking a cup before meals can make you feel full and postpone your hunger.
6. Dark Chocolate
Rich in antioxidants, dark chocolate can naturally suppress your appetite. The bittersweet taste of chocolate made from cacao seeds can help reduce cravings for rich, savory foods when eaten before meals.
7. Saffron Extract
Used historically as a medicinal herb, saffron is rich in compounds like crocetin and crocins, which are shown to aid in weight loss and boost metabolism according to a Malaysian study. It’s a safe and non-stimulating choice.
8. Green Coffee Extract
Unroasted coffee beans, or green coffee, are known for their ability to reduce appetite. Although more research is needed, studies like the one from the University of Exeter suggest that green coffee extract can be effective in weight loss.
9. Spinach Extract
Spinach is celebrated as a superfood for its weight loss properties. The thylakoids in spinach extract can significantly suppress appetite and encourage weight loss, according to research from Lund University in Sweden.
10. Water
One of the simplest ways to control appetite and promote weight loss is through water consumption. Research confirms that drinking two cups before meals can help you lose weight effectively. It’s a straightforward and proven method.
In summary, while there are various manufactured appetite suppressants on the market that affect the central nervous and hormonal systems, they often carry risks. This guide focuses on natural options free from artificial ingredients and adverse effects, offering a safer way to manage your appetite and achieve weight loss goals.