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3 healthy supplements to help kick-start weight loss

ProbioticI believe one of the reasons losing weight can be a bit of a roller-coaster is because a diet designed for weight loss often isn’t a sustainable one. If you’re about to start a weight loss diet of boiled chicken, raw carrots and salad, you’re probably not going to be jumping with enthusiasm for the journey ahead of you, writes Ellie McInerney.

One of the best tips I have learnt working in the fitness industry is that the right weight loss supplements will help you burn fat faster, feel fuller for longer and help you see results quicker. As you probably know by now, I am a true believer in real food and real supplements. I strongly recommend staying away from anything with an ingredients list you can’t pronounce and I believe in the benefits of educating yourself and understanding there are no quick-fixes.

In saying that, there is an abundance of supplements available to you – most of which are accessible via your local supermarket – which can have some pretty powerful benefits as you lose weight in a healthy way. So if you’re ready to take your weight loss to the next level, read on to find out which super supplements you can include to kick-start your weight loss journey.

Green Tea

If you want to lose weight, head to the supermarket right now, bypass the sweets and baked goods, and head to the aisle with the pretty boxes of green tea!

You’re going to want to take all the boxes of this stuff you can find, so bring a friend to help with the load! You see, green tea and its extract are natural thermogenic supplements. This means they increase your basal metabolic rate (the rate your body burns energy while at rest) without increasing your heart rate.

Green tea is super popular amongst bodybuilders who are looking to lose fat fast. It’s a healthy, natural way to get results without side effects. In saying that, green tea does contain caffeine, so watch out if your body is super sensitive to caffeine. Studies have also shown the level of antioxidants in green tea can lower the risk of some cancers, improve dental health by killing bacteria and can improve physical and athletic performance too!

Garcinia Cambogia Fruit

Also known as the Indian Berry, the Garcinia Cambogia Fruit may not be hanging out in the fresh food section of Woollies, but you don’t have to go to India to get your hands on some either.

The Garcinia Cambogia Fruit contains hydroxycitric acid, which is closely related to the citric acid found in grapefruits and oranges. HCA works by stopping your body from turning sugar and starch into fat, basically meaning it inhibits fat production in the body. You can find this supplement online from Amazon.com or else, head to your local fresh food section in the supermarket and stock up on grapefruits, which will work just as effectively as an additional supplement to your healthy weight loss program.

Probiotics

Good gut health is vital if you want to lose some weight. Our guts are where all the behind the scenes happen in our body, from our hormones to our emotions, our physical appearance, energy levels and weight – it all begins in the workings of our guts.

A good quality probiotic from brands like Bioceuticals or Ethical Nutrients will do wonders for boosting your mood and improving your overall health and wellbeing – including your body’s ability to lose weight. Of course, we know the benefits of a good quality protein powder, so trial a few to see which one you like best. I always go for gluten free and dairy free protein powders and if possible, organic. Pea and brown rice make excellent choices for a healthy protein base.

You can buy pea and brown rice proteins from health food and supplement stores, and sometimes in the health food section of your local supermarket. Ensure your diet has adequate protein levels through fresh, lean meats (again, if possible, go for organic) and make sure you’re getting plenty of fruit and vegetables in there too.

If you’re hungry, you’re doing it wrong

Weight loss doesn’t have to be challenging, it can be a really enjoying process if you’re equipped with knowledge and the right foods so that you’re never hungry. I always say to clients “if you’re hungry, you’re doing it wrong” so eat good food, include supplements and stay strong! You will reach your goals as long as you keep moving forward.

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