Diet 2

Increase Metabolism

To lose more weight, increase your metabolism to burn more energy and calories. Minerals that increase the metabolic rate are manganese, magnesium and calcium. Together they provide energy, protein and build lean muscle. Food sources of calcium are cheese, milk, yogurt, tofu, almonds, dried figs and spinach. Magnesium can often be found in sunflower seeds, pine nuts, cashews, walnuts, cocoa powder and soybeans. Herbs that increase metabolism are guarana and ginkgo biloba.

Boost Immune System

While losing weight, the body needs to have a strong immune system to protect it from bacteria and viruses. Iron and zinc are the best minerals to consume when trying to protect the body from toxins. Iron can be found in seaweed, lentils, beans, eggs, kale, dried apricots, lean beef or lamb. Wheat germ, pumpkin seeds, beef steak, sunflower and sesame seeds provide the body with zinc. Herbs that boost the immune system are lemon balm, mint and thyme.

Boost Bowel Movements

For optimal weight loss, minerals and herbs can create more frequent bowel movements to eliminate waste. Elimination depends on having a healthy digestive system so incorporating manganese, copper and sulfur into the diet will be beneficial. Legumes, dark chocolate, nuts and seeds, tofu, shellfish and poultry provide these minerals. You may also choose to drink herbal teas that are natural laxatives, such as dandelion root or senna leaf.

Diuretics

Minerals and herbs that are diuretics make you frequently urinate during weight loss. Potassium is a mineral that is a natural diuretic. Food sources of potassium include beets, sweet potatoes, oranges, dates, raisins, yogurt and tomatoes. For an herbal alternative, try nettle, lovage and parsley. These herbs not only act as diuretics, but also cleanse and detoxify the liver.


Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/article/274893-weight-loss-herbs-and-minerals/#ixzz123NKpOee

Reference: http://www.livestrong.com/article/274893-weight-loss-herbs-and-minerals/