Natural Fitness: Herbs for Weight Loss and Exercise

Natural Fitness: Herbs for Weight Loss and Exercise

Natural Fitness: Herbs for Weight Loss and Exercise

It's January, and we all know what that means: New Year's resolutions efforts are in full effect. For many of us, losing weight and getting fit is a big part of our goals for 2025--according to Numerator, about 70% of New Year's resolutions included weight loss for 2024, and it's likely that number is only growing. While we all wish there was a magic supplement we could take that would effortlessly bring us to our weight loss goals, there's no denying it: getting in shape requires hard work! Still, there are plenty of natural ways to help simplify the process of losing weight. Whether you are battling insulin resistance, thyroid or adrenal imbalance, or just need a boost of extra energy for workouts, read on to discover some of the herbs, mushrooms, and other supplements that may help you reach your fitness goals in 2025.

Herbs For Weight Loss & Exercise Performance

Kelp

Rich in fiber, this nutrient-dense algae promotes feelings of satiety and fights cravings and hunger, while its high iodine content assists in the function of the thyroid, which plays a major role in metabolism function. In addition, kelp is rich in fucoxanthin, a compound that has piqued the interest of scientists for its potential ability to help burn fat in the body. Kelp also contains polysaccharides that help regulate blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity, which can help prevent weight gain. Kelp can be used culinarily or as granules or powder in bulk or capsule form.

Maca Root

Maca has long been known for its ability to boost energy and balance hormones in the body. Studies have suggested that maca supplements can reduce cortisol levels in the body. High cortisol levels are a common contributor to weight gain and can make weight loss more difficult. The increased stamina associated with maca can encourage longer, more frequent, and more effective workouts. In addition, some studies suggest that this herb may have the ability to promote lean muscle mass when combined with exercise. Maca can be taken as a powder, an extract, or in capsules.

Gymnema

Gymnema has long been used to fight sugar cravings and control blood sugar levels. This is because gymenic acid, one of the compounds found in gymnema, temporarily blocks the taste of sweetness, which can reduce the temptation to indulge in sugary foods. In addition, gymnema can help regulate blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity. Resistance to insulin is a common reason for weight gain, as it causes over-production of insulin, leading to excessive fat storage. Other studies suggest that gymnema may increase fat metabolism, meaning it encourages your body to burn stored fat for energy. As an added bonus, this herb supports digestion, nutrient absorption, and can promote healthy cholesterol levels. Gymnema can be taken as a tea, a powder, an extract, or in capsules.

Ginseng Root

In addition to its ability to regulate cortisol levels, contributing to energy levels and preventing weight gain, studies have suggested that ginseng root can promote muscle endurance, stamina, and strength. Because of this, ginseng has become a popular choice for athletes and those who want to get the most out of their workouts. It can also help with post-workout recovery due to its ability to reduce inflammation and protect muscle tissues. Ginseng can be taken as a tea, a powder, in capsules, or as an extract.

Ashwagandha Root

Like ginseng, ashwagandha is a popular choice for athletes due to its stamina-enhancing and strength-boosting properties. Studies show that this herb has the ability to promote muscle mass and endurance, and its ability to regulate cortisol and improve thyroid function promote healthy weight management. Ashwagandha can be taken as a tea, an alcohol or gyclerin extract, or in capsules.  

Brigham Tea (Mormon Tea/Ephedra)

Brigham tea is most known for its ability to boost energy, stamina, and improve focus, which can lead to more effective workout sessions. The active compound found in Brigham tea, known as "ephedrine," boosts the metabolism naturally by increasing resting heart rate and body temperature, allowing you to burn more calories throughout the day. Brigham tea is a mild appetite suppressant and may help reduce cravings, and studies have shown that ephedrine promotes the oxidation of fat during exercise, meaning it can help you to burn more fat as your source of energy. Brigham tea can be made into a tea, taken in capsules, or taken as an extract.

Featured Products For Weight Loss

Dr. Christopher's Metaburn Herbal Weight Formula

Metaburn Herbal Weight - 100 Capsules - Christopher's Herb Shop
This formula, available in capsules or bulk powder, was formulated to support the body during weight loss, and combines Brigham tea with nutritious herbs such as red clover, oatstraw, damiana, chickweed, and juniper to supply the body with essential vitamins & minerals needed during weight management. 

Dr. Christopher's Bee Power Energy Formula

Bee Power Energy - 100 Capsules - Christopher's Herb Shop
Bee Power Energy was created to support healthy energy levels naturally, provides the body with nutrients needed to revitalize our glandular, nervous, and circulatory systems. Supported energy levels allow us to get the most out of our exercise.

Dr. Christopher's Adrenal Formula

Adrenal Formula - 100 Capsules - Christopher's Herb Shop
Available in capsule and bulk powder form, this formula aids the body in regulating stress and supports the function of the adrenal system, promoting healthy energy levels and fighting lethargy.

Dr. Christopher's Thyroid Maintenance Formula

Thyroid Maintenance - 100 Capsules - Christopher's Herb Shop
The Thyroid Maintenance Formula is a blend of whole food herbs chosen to support healthy thyroid function. As a big contributor to the speed and function of our metabolisms, our thyroids and their health can have a huge impact on our weight loss efforts. This formula is available in capsule and bulk powder form.

Nulife Herbs® Maximum Metabolizer

This formula, containing gymnema, maca, licorice, fenugreek, chickweed, ginger, and cayenne was created to help block sugar cravings, boost the metabolism, support the adrenal system, and promote healthy blood sugar levels, all of which can contribute to weight loss. To read more about natural blood sugar control and how it can contribute to weight loss, check out our previous blog, Herbal Blood Sugar Control: Supplements for Diabetes and Insulin Resistance.

Nutri® Tribio Complete GLP-1 Complex

Named for it's ability to boost GLP-1 levels (a naturally occurring hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels and manage the metabolism), this formula contains blood sugar regulators such as berberine, Ceylon cinnamon, and fenugreek, as well as ingredients for a healthy gut and digestive system.

Nutri® GLP-1 Boosting Gut Support

Another product formulated to support healthy GLP-1 levels, this prebiotic fiber blend supports healthy digestion, and promotes satiety. This powder can be used in combination with the Tribio Complete GLP-1 Complex for even more powerful results.

Nutri® Akkermansia+

This supplement provides triple the gut support, complete with pre-, pro-, and post-biotic ingredients such as akkermansia, hyluraunic acid, vitamin D3, vitamin B2, and chromium and is the perfect way to boost your digestion and nourish your gut microbiome. When combined with a nutritious diet and exercise, healthy digestion and metabolism can contribute to weight loss.

MycoBotanicals® Blood Sugar

MycoBotanicals® Blood Sugar - 60 Vegetarian Capsules - Christopher's Herb Shop

This formula by Host Defense helps manage healthy blood sugar levels by combining sugar-balancing mushrooms such as maitake, reishi & chaga with gymnema, cinnamon, and bilberry, which can make it easier to lose weight.

LifeSeasons Therapeutics® Glucose Stabili-T

Featuring cinnamon, chromium, alpha lipoic acid, fenugreek, gymnema, and bilberry, this blend was created with blood sugar regulation in mind and is great for those with weight problems related to insulin-resistance.

Featured Products for Exercise Performance

Nutri® Micronized Creatine Monohydrate

Creatine is a naturally-occurring compound in the body that contributes to energy production and muscle health. Supplementing with creatine can help improve performance during your workouts, leading to longer, more effective exercise sessions and increased muscle growth. Its anti-inflammatory properties can also help muscles recover after an intense workout.

SunWarrior Active Protein

This blend by SunWarrior was created in response to the need for a protein powder that can provide your body with the energy and power needed for intensive workouts and amplify muscle recovery. Containing 30 grams of protein, 6 grams of BCAAs, probiotics, and a variety of minerals, this drink mix will have you feeling great before, during, and after your workout.

SunWarrior Protein - Warrior Blend

This protein powder's blend of yellow peas, goji berry, hemp seed, coconut, and more is rich in plant-based amino acids and triglycerides that will keep you energized during your workout and provide your body with the building blocks needed to produce lean, healthy muscle mass.

Host Defense - MycoBotanicals® Energy

MycoBotanicals® Energy - 60 Vegetarian Capsules - Christopher's Herb Shop

This formula combines cordyceps, reishi, and chaga with rhodiola, green tea, and eleuthero to create a herb & mushroom blend that supports respiratory and cardiovascular function, boosts the metabolism, supports healthy stamina, and aids in recovery.

    Nutri® Tongkat Ali Men's Performance Complex

    This men's formula has been shown to boost testosterone, which can contribute to healthy energy and stamina levels, and reduce cortisol in men. Regular supplementation of this formula can increase the quality of workouts and help with muscle growth. To read more about vitality herbs for men, read our previous blog, Men's Herbal Allies: Prostate Support, Heart Health, Stamina, & More.

    Conclusion

    Setting a goal for your health is a wonder full thing, but, sometimes, calling the journey an "uphill battle" can feel like an understatement. As you work towards a healthy weight or a personal fitness goal, it can feel as if your mind and body are fighting against you, and it can be frustrating. It's important to take a step back and appreciate all progress towards your goals, no matter how big or small, and to avoid dwelling on setbacks. We all know that losing weight and staying active is hard, especially in the society we live in today, but there are many ways we can assist our bodies and make the process a little easier. We hope that some of the supplements we have introduced you today can make a difference in your weight loss and fitness journey.

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