Many of us are seeking long term weight loss that will produce maximum results with very little effort. A natural approach to weight loss is best for your health. A three-fold approach incorporating healthy dietary changes, an exercise program and the support of carefully selected supplements will not only help you lose weight but improve your overall health and energy levels as well.

Make Some Lifestyle Changes Today
To achieve weight loss you have to put out more energy than you take in. However, calorie restriction reduces the rate we burn energy as our bodies try to create energy reserves in times of famine. The traditional recommendation for weight loss is a low fat and high fibre eating plan but you’ll benefit even more by increasing your protein intake and being selective about carbohydrates. This is particularly true for those who have blood sugar control issues, or are storing weight around their abdomen.

8 Simple Tips For Weight Loss
• Include protein in every meal, such as lean meats, eggs, soy, nuts, seeds and dairy products. A protein shake for breakfast can help get the day started.
• Eat small amounts frequently and snack on proteins around 3pm when there is a natural drop in blood sugar levels.
• Choose wholegrain or wholemeal foods. Fibre reduces the speed that a meal is absorbed and leaves you feeling fuller longer.
• Avoid refined sugars, including alcohol.
• Research the glycemic index (GI) of foods, which measures how quickly carbohydrates from foods are broken down and utilised. Low GI foods have been shown to assist weight loss.
• Add a fibre supplement. Try 1 teaspoon of psyllium husks mixed into 150ml of water, 1 hour before each meal. Drinking enough water will help the fibre do its job. Also have a glass of water as your first response to hunger.
• A multivitamin and mineral tablet and fish oil capsule will ensure daily nutrient intake, and prevent deficiencies that might hinder weight loss.
• Get moving with some exercise. Start by getting a pedometer and take more steps per day. Participate in organised sports, and also choose a solo exercise activity you enjoy. Aim to be active for at least 30 minutes per day.

The Right Supplement For You
It is important to get the most specific supplement for your needs to get the most benefit. Some of the most common weight loss ingredients are outlined below.
• Gymnema – This traditional Indian herb temporarily suppresses your sweet taste buds. Now available in tablets, Gymnema also reduces blood sugar levels and cholesterol. It also reduces the absorption of carbohydrates and fats from the digestive system.
• L- Carnitine – An amino acid involved in assisting cells to use fats as fuel for energy. This supplement is best used in conjunction with vigorous exercise to maximise your fat burning potential.
• Chromium – This trace mineral is involved in carbohydrate and fat metabolism. Take 400mcg per day if you experience strong sugar cravings.
• Green Tea – Studies suggest that green tea increases the amount of energy we use up on a daily basis, and also reduces food intake. It is a great antioxidant and helps with concentration. Drink 3 cups per day or take a standardised tablet daily.
• Cinnamon – Known more for its culinary uses, this spice is receiving attention for increasing insulin sensitivity. The more sensitive your body is to insulin the less time sugar spends in the bloodstream. Incorporate 1 teaspoon per day into your diet, or find a cinnamon containing capsule.
• Choline and Inositol – These two phospholipids are found naturally in lecithin. They assist fat metabolism in the liver and help prevent ‘fatty’ liver issues.
• Milk Thistle - The liver is essential for fat and protein metabolism and the regulation of body cholesterol. Milk Thistle has been used by Herbalists for 2000 years and is reported to have protective effects on the liver and to greatly improve its function by helping to regenerate injured liver cells.

There Is No Time Like The Present
There is no better time to start your natural weight loss program than now. It is important to accept that you need to be prepared to make long-term changes in order to maintain your weight loss. Approaching your weight loss naturally will provide an increased quality of life that will make it much easier to sustain your weight-loss goals.