In the realm of weight loss, there's always a buzz around new drugs and pharmaceutical solutions. However, if you prefer a more natural approach to rev up your metabolism, balance blood sugar levels, and shed those extra pounds, you're in luck! There are a wealth of metabolism-enhancing foods and supplements available that can help you achieve your goals without relying on synthetic options that might have dangerous side effects. In this article, we'll explore the wonders of these natural alternatives, providing you with a closer look at how they can support your weight loss journey.

First up, Matcha

Matcha green tea has been shown to have a positive effect on weight loss and weight maintenance. A study by the National Library of Medicine found that the catechins and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG)-caffeine mixture in matcha green tea can help achieve these results. But what’s even more interesting? The study found that catechins had a positive effect on weight loss and weight maintenance, but this effect was reduced in people with high caffeine intake. So, if you’re grabbing for your morning matcha, consider putting down the afternoon coffee later that day.

Collagen

As well as overhauling your hair, skin and nail health, research is now showing that supplementation with collagen peptides (like our beautiful, best selling holi (mane) supplement), in combination with resistance training, can increase muscle mass, muscle strength, and decrease fat mass in the body. Studies have shown that effects were significantly more pronounced in subjects receiving collagen peptides, which suggests that collagen supplementation may be beneficial for weight loss and body composition improvement. So, as well as increasing muscle mass and boosting metabolism, you also get the double benefits of supporting skin elasticity, joint health, and digestion.

Ginger

Ginger is also INCREDIBLE and so overlooked and underrated! According to studies, being overweight can cause oxidative stress and inflammation in the body - which is not great for systemic, full body health. Free radicals in the body cause oxidative stress, which can lead to damage. However, ginger possesses antioxidant properties that help regulate these free radicals, while also having anti-inflammatory properties to combat inflammation.

As well as helping with inflammation, other studies have found that ginger can also help with weight loss. One small study found that overweight men who consumed ginger felt fuller for longer periods of time. Other studies have looked into ginger's effect on body weight and belly fat, as measured by waist-to-hip ratio, and have concluded that ginger has a significant impact on reducing excess weight and belly fat. Other studies suggest that ginger can even have an anti-obesity effect by aiding in digestion and speeding up the process of food moving through your colon. So, don't underestimate the power of ginger! Add it to your sushi, make ginger tea with fresh slices (add lemon and honey to taste), add fresh or frozen ginger to smoothies, and add grated ginger into your stir-fry dishes. Easy! All of this is thought to help your blood sugar levels too. 

Cayenne Pepper

No doubt you’ve heard of cayenne for weight loss. According to a 2003 study, consuming fresh chili pepper can boost your metabolic rate for up to 30 minutes after consumption, all just by eating! Boosting your metabolism means your body can convert nutrients into energy instead of storing them as fat, which can help with how your body functions. But if you can't handle the heat, supplementation is possible. A 2011 study found that taking cayenne capsules can still aid in weight loss, even if you're not a fan of spicy food. Just be sure to not take these on an empty stomach! 

The Indian Long Pepper

And talking of spice, the Indian long pepper is known for its impressive health and metabolism-boosting benefits too, including managing diabetes and aiding in weight loss. But what is the Indian long pepper? It’s a spice commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine and traditional Indian cuisine. Its hypoglycemic properties help to lower blood sugar levels by activating insulin production and reducing starch breakdown into glucose. Additionally, its natural fat-burning properties help to detoxify the body, reduce sudden hunger pangs, and improve digestion, metabolism, and cholesterol levels, leading to faster weight loss.

MCT Oil

MCT oil is another option. It stands for medium-chain triglyceride oil, which is a type of dietary fat extracted from coconut oil or palm kernel oil. MCT oil is metabolized differently than other types of fats in the body. It is quickly absorbed and converted into ketones that the brain and body can use as a source of energy. MCT oil has gained popularity as a supplement for weight loss, improved cognitive function, and energy boosts, particularly through Dave Asprey's bulletproof coffee - a morning coffee with grass-fed butter and MCT oil. Studies have shown that healthy men experience an 11 calorie/day increase in metabolic rate when consuming 5 grams of MCT oil daily.

Bone Broth

While you are working on boosting your metabolism, bone broth can also help to keep you full. Studies have found that eating soup on a regular basis can increase feelings of fullness and may be associated with decreased body weight and belly fat. What’s more, bone broth is high in protein, which may help improve appetite control, increase weight loss, and maintain lean muscle mass. Plus, one study of 53 men also found that when combined with resistance training, collagen helped increase muscle mass and decrease body fat.

Green Coffee Bean Extract

Finally, green coffee bean extract, which contains caffeine and chlorogenic acids, may also help with weight loss because of its metabolism-boosting properties. Scientific reviews of current studies released confirm this. They suggest that caffeine consumption may reduce body weight, BMI, and body fat (but don’t EVER mistake this for thinking that a daily, calorie-laden Starbucks is going to help you lose weight!).

A 2013 study into chlorogenic acids in green coffee bean extract suggests they may lower blood sugar levels, reduce insulin spikes, boost fat metabolism, lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and improve obesity-related hormone levels. As much of the existing research is on rats, studies on humans are needed. Chlorogenic acids could also help prevent or control type 2 diabetes by regulating glucose and insulin levels. A 2020 review suggested that green coffee extract could improve blood glucose levels at doses of more than 400 mg per day.

So, if you are looking for a more natural approach to boost your metabolism and aid in weight loss, it’s so cool to think how many things might already be inside your kitchen or pantry. There are so many AMAZING metabolism-enhancing foods and supplements that can help you achieve your goals. From matcha to collagen, ginger, cayenne pepper, Indian long pepper, MCT oil, and bone broth, the options are endless. These natural supplements not only boost your metabolism and help you shed pounds, but they also have added benefits for your overall health, such as reducing inflammation and regulating blood sugar levels. So, add some holi (mane) to your daily smoothie, add in a ginger tea and a matcha, and you’re already on the road towards metabolism-boosting, weight-loss assisting, and natural solutions! I love how small changes can lead to big results!

***THESE STATEMENTS HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED OR REGULATED BY THE FDA. WE ARE NOT DOCTORS, THEREFORE ALWAYS CONSULT WITH YOUR DOCTOR FIRST***