Phytotherapy for Obesity Management

Study Notes

Phytotherapy for Obesity

Obesity management is crucial because it addresses a cluster of diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, lipid abnormalities, and reproductive issues.
Genetic predispositions, underlying illnesses (like insulin resistance), medication side effects (e.g., antidepressants, corticosteroids), and poor lifestyle choices (low activity levels and poor dietary habits) can contribute to obesity.
Herbal medicine targets obesity through:
- Enhancing metabolic rate
- Regulating glucose levels and insulin resistance
- Improving lipid profiles
- Suppressing appetite (drinking plenty of water can support this)

What is Obesity?

Obesity is defined as abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that poses a risk to health.
It's the most common nutritional disorder in developed nations and is increasingly prevalent in developing countries due to changing lifestyles.
A commonly used method to assess obesity is Body Mass Index (BMI). BMI is calculated by dividing weight in kilograms by height in meters squared.
- A formula to calculate BMI is: BMI = weight/height²
Different weight classes associated with BMI ranges are:
- Underweight: BMI below 18.5
- Normal weight: BMI from 18.5 to 24.9
- Overweight: BMI from 25.0 to 29.9
- Very overweight: BMI 30 and above

Herbal Remedies for Obesity

Capsaicin: Studies suggest increasing metabolism through capsaicin, leading to increased energy expenditure and fat burning. It may irritate the stomach and cause constipation or hemorrhoids.
Cinnamon: May improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels, potentially beneficial for weight management, especially in overweight individuals and promoting weight loss by enhancing insulin sensitivity and reducing blood sugar.
White Kidney Beans: These beans contain a component that blocks the enzyme alpha-amylase which breaks down carbs to glucose and prevents their absorption. This can reduce carb digestion and absorption, hence impacting weight.
Green Coffee Bean Extract: This contains chlorogenic acid that has antioxidant properties and can boost metabolism, but its impact on weight loss is not consistently shown to be significant.
Pineapple: The enzyme bromelain contained in pineapple helps break down protein, contributing to metabolism and assisting in burning excess belly fat.
Guar Gum (Adips): When consumed, it swells in the stomach to create a gel-like structure promoting fullness and reduced appetite. It is contraindicated for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Chitosan: Positively charged chitosan binds to fatty acids and bile salts, disrupting fat absorption.
Apple Cider Vinegar: It may promote satiety by increasing water retention, and increase metabolism . It may not be effective with prolonged and large amounts of use, as it can irritate the throat.
Chromium: (Possibly) can help control blood sugar levels impacting weight loss.
Orlistat: Inhibits pancreatic lipase, reducing fat absorption.
Chia Seeds and Matcha: Matcha (green tea extract) can boost metabolism and initially reduce weight. However, long-term dependency and potential issues with the gallbladder, obstruction, and liver/kidney issues require consideration.