Who would like the idea of having a flat belly? Well, we all do. There is no denying the fact that belly fat is one of the most difficult parts to get rid of. However, Ayurveda has some amazing remedies to not just cut the stubborn fat from belly, but also offers natural ways to reduce weight holistically. Ayurveda believes that you tend to gain weight due to the factors that include absence of exercise, over-sleeping, unhealthy diet and way of living. All these factors connect with each other, leading to this particular state of fat accumulation or obesity, especially around the belly area. According to Ayurveda, obesity is regarded as a disorder of the fat tissue and metabolism. In this condition, the fat tissues increase and block all the channels in the digestive system, which further lead to weight gain.
Ayurveda suggests a few natural and herbal remedies that may help in cutting belly fat. As per Ayurveda Expert Ram N Kumar from NirogStreet, "Any herb that can increase metabolism is helpful in cutting belly fat. In fact, most spices like black pepper and ginger also help in reducing fat. It is recommended to drink warm water to boost digestion. People who drink cold water have difficulty in reducing fat." We cannot stress enough on the fact that you must pair these remedies with exercises and a healthy diet to ensure weight loss.
Ayurveda experts Dr. Ashutosh Gautam and Dr. Ram N Kumar suggest these natural remedies to cut the flab.
1. Methi (Fenugreek)
Loaded with numerous health benefits, fenugreek or methi has been known to help lose weight efficiently. It supports digestion, which is key in shedding kilos. Galactomannan, which is a water-soluble component found in methi, helps curb your cravings and keeps you fuller for longer. Moreover, it also helps increase metabolic rate of the body. All you need to do is to roast some methi seeds and crush them in a mortar and pestle to make a fine powder. Ingest some powder with water first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. You can also soak the seeds in water overnight. Drink the water and chew the soaked seeds on an empty stomach.
2. Guggul (Commiphora Mukul)
Guggul is herbal remedy that has long been used in various Ayurvedic medicines. Guggul contains a plant sterol known as guggulsterone that is said to promote weight loss by stimulating the body's metabolism. Moreover, it is known as a natural cholesterol-lowering herb too. Guggul tea is said to be effective in many ways.
3. Vijaysar (Pterocarpus Marsupium)
Vijaysar is a deciduous tree, whose bark is used in various Ayurvedic medicines to manage diabetes and obesity. Vijaysar is said to have fat reducing properties that help shed that stubborn belly fat. Moreover, the resin and bark are used to ensure a healthy digestive system. You could drink a cupful of herbal tea using vijaysar to get effective results.
(Also Read: 7 Ayurvedic Healing Waters You Must Have)
4. Triphala
Triphala helps eliminate toxins from the body and rejuvenates the digestive system. Triphala is an ancient preparation made using three dried fruits including amalaki (amla), bibhitaki and haritaki, all of which have cleansing and rejuvenating properties. Ayurveda experts advise taking triphala churna in hot water at least two hours after dinner and half hour before breakfast.
(Also Read: Triphala: A Fuss Free Way To Heal Your Digestive Woes)
5. Punarnava (Boerrrhavia Diffusa)
Punarnava is known to be effective in the weight loss process. Its diuretic properties help the kidney and urinary bladder to function better, which further helps in flushing out toxins from the body without the loss of essential minerals like potassium and electrolytes. It also helps reduce the chances of water retention, which can cause weight gain. Alternatively, it could also help manage digestive issues like constipation and help lose weight in a healthy way. You can drink punarnava tea to reduce weight effectively.
6. Dalchini (Cinnamon)
Dalchini or cinnamon helps in stimulating the body's metabolism, which further helps in cutting the belly fat. According to a study published in the Journal of Nutritional Science and Vitaminology, cinnamaldehyde in cinnamon stimulated metabolism of the fatty visceral tissue, which means it could be helpful in cutting belly fat. Drink a cupful of cinnamon tea first thing in the morning or as suggested by the doctor.
Here are some other remedies, which you may consider:
1. Kalonji (Nigella Sativa):
Kalonji has wide range of uses and one of such is weight loss and controlling obesity. It is a rich source of fiber. Nigella seeds contain nigellone, which helps in controlling obesity. You can have kalonji, as a spice, in your daily diet.
2. Aloe vera:
This nutritionally dense plant has some active compounds that promote weight loss. It is usually consumed in the form of aloe vera juice, which is made mixing the gel of the plant with water. The aloe vera gel contains a complex carbohydrate known as acemannan, which facilitates the absorption of nutrients by the cells, nourishes them and also helps detoxify them. It helps in boosting metabolism, aiding weight loss.
(Also Read: Aloe Vera For Weight Loss: Here's Why Ghritkumari May Help You Shed Kilos)
3. Pepper:
Black pepper is a storehouse of health benefits and effective weight loss and metabolism is one of them. The desi super food is packed with vitamins A, K, C, and minerals like calcium, potassium and sodium. Black pepper is also rich in healthy fats and fiber which helps to promote weight loss. You can consume black pepper in several forms. You can add it in your morning tea to give a healthy start to your day.
(Also Read: How Does Black Pepper Help Speed Up Weight Loss?)
4. Ajwain (Carom seeds):
Ajwain works as a natural antioxidant which removes toxic build ups from the body, promoting weight loss. This seed also speeds up body metabolism. You can soak ajwain in water over-night, then boil, strain and have the water in the morning.
(Also Read: Weight Loss: 5 Morning Drinks To Cut Belly Fat)
Please note that the results may vary from person to person. It is advised to consult an Ayurvedic expert before adding these natural remedies to your diet, especially if you wish to consume them in the form of supplements. Diabetics may especially be mindful of taking their doses.