This Natural 2 Ingredient Compound Will Stop Your Weight Gain
This Natural 2 Ingredient Compound Will Stop Your Weight Gain
It has long been known that a plant-based diet and a small waist go hand-in-hand, but a new study has focused on a few specific compounds – such as the ones found in flax and sesame seeds – that may stop or reduce weight gain.
Health Benefits
Flax is known to reduce blood triglyceride levels, blood pressure and the formation of blood clots, according to Cleveland Clinic. But researchers at Harvard School of Public Health decided to investigate further. What they found was a potentially powerful weight-loss tool. According to the study, which, is in early stages and needs to be tested on a larger, more diverse group of people, showed that in women, consuming high amounts of these compounds, called lignans, generally prevented or slowed weight loss over time.
At the start of the 10-year study, which was published in the Aug. 18th edition of The American Journal of Epidemiology, 1,000 women gave urine samples that were tested for 2 compounds, called enterodiol and enterolactone. These compounds occur when bacteria in the stomach breaks down lignans. Results show that higher levels of these 2 compounds, specifically enterodiol, in the urine, correlates with lower weight gain over time.
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Early results also showed that women consuming high amounts of the compounds had an average BMI of 24.6, compared to women who didn’t ingest high amounts of the compounds, whose BMI’s were an average 27.5. The women in the latter group consumed lignans, but not in large amounts. Quantity is the key, according to this study. Only high amounts of the compounds found in flax and sesame seeds will boost weight loss and regulation.
How It Works
It is unknown exactly how the combination of flax and sesame seeds works to combat weight loss. The lignans found in flax and sesame seeds are believed by scientists to be similar in structure to the hormone estrogen, and therefore may affect weight loss by attaching to the receptors for estrogen.
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Side Effects
While a combination of flax and sesame seeds certainly has its benefits, be aware of potential side effects. Flax seeds contain laxative properties, which can cause discomfort, frequent bowel movements, and diarrhea. People with Crohn’s Disease, Irritable Bowel Disease, Diverticulitis or Inflammatory Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, or chronic diarrhea are advised not to consume flax seed.
The Verdict
Overall, consuming high amounts of flax and sesame seeds seems to be a healthy, natural way to prevent weight gain. So, sprinkle some flax and sesame seeds on your cereal, yogurt, or salad to easily incorporate into your diet. Also, enjoy a sweet treat by adding bruised or whole flax seed with a liquid and slurp it down. Whichever way you prefer, this natural weight loss booster is worth trying!
Livestrong.com Huffingtonpost.com Healthcentral.com