What are appetite suppressants?
Appetite suppressants are supplements or medications that help you reduce your appetite.
Appetite is the urge to eat, often even after you've had enough to eat. You then feel "hungry," which is different from hunger. Hunger arises when your body sends signals to your brain, such as hormones like ghrelin, signaling that your stomach is empty.
If you want to lose weight, it's important to eat a balanced diet so that you stay full while you're trying to lose weight.
In short : When losing weight, you want to satisfy hunger and suppress cravings. Appetite suppressants can help you do this by reducing your appetite.
What types of appetite suppressants are there?
You can be prescribed synthetic appetite suppressants (medication) by your doctor, but you can also opt for natural appetite suppressants.
These are the main differences:
- Prescription medications , these usually work by affecting certain neurotransmitters involved in hunger and satiety
- Natural dietary fibers , which contribute to a feeling of fullness
- Natural supplements containing herbs and other natural ingredients that support metabolism and can help suppress appetite
What is a natural appetite suppressant?
Natural appetite suppressants are made from naturally occurring ingredients. The plant extracts used contain, in addition to their appetite-suppressing properties, all sorts of other beneficial substances that can support your health, such as antioxidants.
Other benefits of suppressing your appetite naturally are that natural supplements have fewer side effects than medications, you can get them without a prescription, and they can be used for a longer period of time.
Active ingredients in appetite suppressants
These are some of the most common natural active ingredients in appetite suppressants:
Nopal
Nopal Premium with Neopuntia® is a dietary supplement that consists of a combination of powerful fibers and chromium . Neopuntia®, a high-quality nopal cactus extract , binds to fats during digestion, making them less well absorbed. (1)
It also supports healthy cholesterol and blood sugar levels by slowing the absorption of carbohydrates. Chromium enhances these effects by helping to keep blood sugar levels stable, which can contribute to weight management.
Green Tea
Green tea has been used for years to support fat burning and is therefore incredibly popular in natural fat burners. Antioxidants also protect the body against free radicals, which are released during all kinds of stress, such as weight loss or exercise.
Chilli
Chili peppers support fat burning. This is all thanks to the substance capsaicin, which provides the heat in spicy dishes. Chili peppers also contain vitamins and other antioxidants such as carotenoids, which are responsible for their red color.
Chrome
Chromium picolinate is a particularly well-absorbed form of chromium, which plays a role in regulating blood sugar levels. It is involved in the release and production of insulin and supports macronutrient metabolism.
Chromium picolinate contributes to healthy fat metabolism and normal protein metabolism.
What is the best appetite suppressant?
It can feel a little overwhelming when diving into the world of natural appetite suppressants.
That's why I have 3 valuable tips for you that can help you choose the best appetite suppressant.
Tip 1: Watch out for Caffeine
Some appetite-suppressing supplements contain stimulants like caffeine. It's helpful to check this before choosing or purchasing a supplement.
Tip 2: Choose a Mix
Appetite-suppressing ingredients are often combined in supplements with other ingredients that have a synergistic effect. This means the substances enhance each other's effects. This can make such a combination more powerful and effective.
Tip 3: Pay attention to ingredients
A good appetite suppressant can be recognized by a clear and transparent list of ingredients, scientifically substantiated claims, safe dosages, and a reputation of reliable manufacturers.
Note: Always follow the recommended dosage on the product label and consult a doctor or nutritionist if you have any doubts. This will ensure you use the supplement safely and effectively, especially if you are taking other medications or have health conditions.
Sources Used
- Uebelhack, R., Busch, R., Alt, F., Beah, Z., & Chong, P. (2014). Effects of Cactus Fiber on the Excretion of Dietary Fat in Healthy Subjects: A Double Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Clinical Investigation. Current Therapeutic Research , 76 , 39–44. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.curtheres.2014.02.001
