We have all heard of essential oils and all of the new research promoting health and wellness, mostly for relaxation and pain relief, but what about weight loss? I am not saying essential oils are some magic thing that will take off the fat, but there are studies that say some essential oils can promote weight loss by giving the body what it needs. Research is finding that there are some oils that can support your weight loss endeavor! Ingesting, diffusing or applying certain oils while you are eating a healthy diet and staying active may give you an edge. Here are the 5 most researched oils and a bit about them:
Weight Loss Promoting Oil #1 Grapefruit:
I have been putting grapefruit essential oil in my water for years. I use the vitality line from Young Living because I know it is pure Grapefruit essential oil can help activate enzymes in the body to break down fat. It contains compounds that support your metabolism. Studies have shown grapefruit oil can reduce appetite and thus help promote weight loss. Put 2-3 drops in your water, but you can also diffuse it in your home or massage a few drops onto your wrists to help with cravings.
Weight Loss Promoting Oil #2 Peppermint:
You can cook with it, clean with it, diffuse it, rub a few drops on achy muscles or put a few drops in your water. So many uses! But what about weight loss? Studies have shown it can suppress appetite and reduce cravings. It helps with digestion, helps bloating and can help with IBS (irritable bowel syndrome). In Canada they have approved the 1st peppermint oil natural health product approved for relief of IBS symptoms.
Peppermint is also known to energize, it can help boost energy levels. They are using it in athletics to increase performance. It can help you with needed energy to get moving. It’s invigorating! I love putting a few drops in my water bottle for the day. You can inhale it directly from the bottle , diffuse it or add to your skin with a carrier oil. Be careful what oils you take internally. I use Young Living’s Vitality Line, learn more on my Blog post https://www.elissasfitness.com/add-some-vitality-to-your .
Weight Loss Promoting Oil #3 Lemon:
Lemon is definitely one of the top 3 oils I use the most. SO many uses and my favorite one? In my water. I put a couple drops in my water everyday. Lemon is know for detoxifying and supporting healthy digestion. There is research showing that breathing in lemon essential oil improves the neurological activity that promotes the breakdown of body fat. It is also a happy oils and can promote a positive mood which helps when trying to lose weight :).
Weight Loss Promoting Oil #4 Ginger:
Ginger is also known for digestive support and also absorption of nutrients. By consuming ginger essential oil you are supporting the body at a cellular level. Ginger is also known to reduce inflammation in the body. There are studies finding ginger can be thermogenic in the body and can help reduce feelings of hunger. Add a drop or two to your tea or water, diffuse at home or rub a couple drops on your skin with a carrier oil.
Weight Loss Promoting Oil #5 Cinnamon:
Cinnamon is known to help regulate blood sugar which will help with sugar cravings. This ultimately can help with weight loss. Cinnamon oil has also been found to reduce the risk of heart disease and inflammation. I love adding a couple drops to my tea or water. You can also diffuse at home or inhale right from the bottle.
Health and weight loss is a journey. It’s lifestyle changes. I believe it is a combination of activity, healthy whole foods and natural things that can help along the way. Even though essential oils can help along the way they are not a magic bullet. Neither is that fad diet or new weight loss powder you heard about. You have to change those bad habits to healthier ones. Focus on nourishing your body instead of depriving it. One step at a time :).
Elissa XOXO
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