The Benefits of Garlic & Ginger in Losing Weight

Garlic and ginger are well-known for their ability to boost immune function, relieve flu symptoms and fight infections. These spices have been used for centuries as food and medicine. They exhibit anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antioxidant and hypoglycemic properties, leading to better overall health. The question is: do they really work for weight loss? Can you slim down and lose those pesky pounds by spicing up your meals? Let's find out!

Garlic and Weight Loss

Rich in antioxidants and sulfur compounds, garlic promotes cardiovascular health and fights free radical damage. In clinical trials, it has been shown to lower bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol levels. Additionally, studies suggest that eating at least 10 grams of garlic per day may reduce the risk of colon, prostate and stomach cancer.

Its therapeutic properties are due to allicin. This sulfur compound relaxes the blood vessels and improves immunity by increasing hydrogen sulfide signaling in your body. Furthermore, it helps lower fasting blood glucose levels and improves insulin sensitivity. As a result, your body becomes more efficient at breaking down sugar.

Blood glucose fluctuations can increase your risk of diabetes, obesity, heart disease and insulin residence. Due to its hypoglycemic effect, garlic keeps your blood sugar levels within normal limits. Therefore, it may help prevent these disorders and aid in weight loss. Studies conducted on subjects with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease have shown that garlic powder can improve body composition by reducing fat mass.

Besides allicin, garlic contains hundreds of other sulfur compounds with healing properties. Thiacremonone, for instance, helps reduce bad cholesterol and triglycerides as well as fat storage. This compound is being studied as a potential therapeutic agent for obesity management and metabolic syndrome.

Contrary to popular belief, garlic doesn’t speed up your metabolism or burn fat. However, it can help with weight loss due to its ability to regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin response. Additionally, it protects against heart disease, diabetes and high cholesterol, which are common concerns among obese and overweight individuals.

Does Ginger Burn Fat?

Ginger is just as popular as garlic when it comes to fat loss. This ancient spice contains gingerol and other natural compounds with anti-obesity effects. Gingerol, for example, has been shown to significantly reduce blood glucose, insulin, leptin and body fat levels in obese mice within 30 days.

Upon consumption, this root increases your body's core temperature and stimulates thermogenesis. Basically, it causes your body to burn more calories throughout the day. It not only helps prevent obesity but also fights metabolic syndrome and regulates blood sugar levels. In lab studies, it has been found to improve body composition, reduce bad cholesterol and decrease inflammation.

When consumed regularly, ginger can improve your body's ability to torch fat and use insulin. On top of that, it scavenges oxidative stress, which is a major risk factor for heart disease, cancer and premature death. This spice also helps with appetite control and inhibits fat absorption. Its fat-burning properties are backed up by science.

Can You Lose Weight Naturally?

So, it's true that both garlic and ginger can bring you closer to your weight-loss goals. Using them together will boost your metabolism and lead to better health. However, be aware that these spices alone are unlikely to help you slim down. To fully reap their benefits, clean up your diet and commit to an active lifestyle.

What you eat has the biggest impact on your weight. There are no shortcuts to a lean body. Garlic and ginger may help, but you still need to watch your diet and make exercise a habit.