Expert: Dennis Leppanen - 6/11/2009

Question
Hey, So I'm on a diet to loose weight and so on.
What are some plants that can be home grown and store bought that will help me loose weight and relax/rebuild muscle?

Does mint plants do any of that?
If it does how can I use it? Tea?

Thanks

Answer
Hi Alex,

Diet and exercise are the keys. Here are some herbs that will help.

To aid in weight loss rotate these herbal teas. Alfalfa, corn silk, dandelion, parsley, and thyme. They have diuretic qualities.

Astragulus increases energy and improves nutrient absorption.Do not use this in a presence of a fever.

Cardamon, cayenne, cinnamon, ginger, green tea, and mustard seed are thermogenic herbs that improve digestion and aid in the metabolism of fat.

Fennel removes mucus and fat from the intestinal tract, and is a natural appetite suppressant.

Fenugreek is useful in removing fat from the liver.

A high fiber diet and supplemental fiber including seeded foods like brown rice, buckwheat, millet and oats are recommended along with plenty of raw fresh fruits and vegetables, such as apples, asparagus, bananas, broccoli, cabbage, raisins, squash, and sweet potatoes. Eat small meals and do not overeat. Remember, obesity is one of the main causes of high blood pressure and heart disease.

10. Avoid foods that are high in fat and cholesterol.

  Foods such as aged meats and cheeses, anchovies, avocados, chicken liver, chocolate, fava beans, pickled herring, sour cream, sherry and wine, yogurt, bacon, corned beef, pork sausage, smoked or processed meats, gravies and boullions. Eat only white fish and skinless turkey or chicken.

Avoid fried foods. Snack on celery, cucumber, berries, all raw fruits and veggies. Buy a juicer, and juice fresh vegetables, sweeten with an apple. It fills you up, and knocks off the pounds. I recommended this to a fellow once, he immediately went out and started juicing 10#'s of carrots a week. Needless to say, he was upset because he put on weight. So, follow the recipes.

This will help, Alex.

Good luck,
Dennis