First Things First on Weight Management 

There’s no miracle pill that magically makes you drop that excess COVID-19 quarantine weight without changing any other lifestyle habits… I’m sorry. If there was, we would all know about it and many of us would be taking it for weight management. Nothing beats a healthy holistic lifestyle, which is essential for any weight management program. This includes:

• Doing what you love (which can lower those nasty stress-eating habits)
• Eating less processed foods
• Getting outside for a walk
• Hitting the gym one extra day a week
• Cutting down on simple carbohydrates. (Try replacing white flour spaghetti with organic brown rice pasta- seriously even my Italian boyfriend approves!)
• Eat more veggies
  and above all else…
• Accepting and loving yourself for where you and your body are at right now. 

I know, that last one is probably the toughest on this list- for both men and women- but we are all a work in progress and I believe in you! And chances are, if you’ve landed here today, you’re probably looking for a healthier and more natural way to kick your butt into gear. Congrats on already starting the process on your wellness journey! 

Today we are taking a moment to appreciate one of Earth’s lesser known native plants: garcinia cambogia. Therefore, take a few minutes to read about what it is, the gifts it provides for us, and if it’s just the kick you’re needing to fit in your pre-quarantine clothes! 

What is Garcinia Cambogia?

Garcinia Cambogia, also known as Malabar Tamarind, is a yellow or green, small, pumpkin shaped fruit. It is native to Indonesia, India, Southeast Asia, and parts of Africa. Garcinia cambogia supplements are made from extracts of the fruit’s peel. The fruit’s biggest claim to fame is it contains a compound called hydroxycitric acid (HCA) which may inhibit an enzyme that helps your body store fat.  

How it Can Aid in Weight Loss

1. It may reduce your appetite

Some studies show that garcinia cambogia increases the level of the feel-good neurotransmitter serotonin. Serotonin is nature’s appetite suppressant, which curbs cravings, shuts off your appetite, and makes your stomach feel full and satisfied.  As a result, this may assist you in weight management.

 2. It may block fat production

Extracts of garcinia cambogia contain hydroxycitric acid (HCA), which blocks body fat by preventing the function of an enzyme called citrate lyase (1). This enzyme normally transforms sugars into body fat, triglycerides, and cholesterol. Therefore, this may help you out for weight management.

The Takeaway

In conclusion, if you’re needing a little extra help from the quarantine blues to get yourself off the couch and back in to shape- garcinia cambogia might be a worthy plant companion to have alongside you in your daily health routine. Just remember, above all else, keep loving yourself along the way- no matter what size pants you’re trying to fit in to today!