Stubborn and dangerous belly fat can sneakily accumulate without you even realizing it, increasing your risk of countless chronic diseases. It is important to change your lifestyle before this visceral fat poses a serious threat to your heart, liver, and other bodily functions. Poor diet and nutrition are one of the main causes of waistline fat. Bingeing on sugary and fatty junk food and not exercising for long periods of time can lead to this unwanted accumulation. Stress also adds to the belly fat problem. It affects your metabolism and increases the secretion of cortisol, making you want to eat more often than your body needs. Less sleep due to stress or other factors disrupts your hormones, making you eat more. (Read also | Which is better exercise for weight loss: walking or climbing stairs?)
If you are looking for a natural way to lose belly fat, the ancient medical practice of Ayurveda offers effective treatments that include a set of herbs that improve metabolism, solve hormonal problems, and help burn belly fat.
“Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, emphasizes harmony between the mind, body and soul. According to Ayurvedic philosophy, nature provides us with everything we need to thrive, including therapeutic herbs,” says Ayush Agarwal, founder of Rasayanam.
Herbs to reduce belly fat
Agarwal shares eight herbs that can help you lose belly fat.
1. Guggul (Commiphora mukul): Guggul increases fat metabolism, stimulates thyroid function and helps in reducing belly fat.
2. Triphala: Triphala is a traditional herbal blend made from three fruits – Amalaki, Bibhitaki and Haritaki – that supports digestion, detoxification and weight management by promoting healthy elimination and metabolism.
3. Ginger (Zingiber officinale): Widely known for its digestive benefits, ginger stimulates stomach enzymes, speeds gastric emptying, reduces hunger and helps slim your waistline.
4. Turmeric (Curcuma longa): Turmeric, a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, fights inflammation, which is closely linked to weight gain, especially around the abdomen.
5. Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum): Known for its ability to regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity, fenugreek helps prevent blood sugar spikes, suppresses appetite and promotes fat loss.
6. Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum): This aromatic spice may help regulate blood sugar levels, increase insulin sensitivity, and reduce abdominal fat storage, making it a valuable ally in weight management.
7. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): As an adaptogenic herb, Ashwagandha helps the body adapt to stress that can lead to weight gain. By lowering cortisol levels, Ashwagandha supports healthy weight management, including the loss of abdominal fat.
8. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra): Licorice root contains compounds that help reduce body fat mass and waist circumference, making it a valuable addition to any weight loss plan.
Get daily updates on fashion, Taylor Swift, health, festivals, travel, love, recipes and other latest lifestyle news on Hindustan Times website and app.
