Ashwagandha And Weight Loss : A Myth Or Reality .

 

Ashwagandha is an ancient medicinal herb that has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine. It is known for its various health benefits, including reducing stress and anxiety, improving brain function, and boosting immunity. In recent years, there has been growing interest in the potential weight loss benefits of ashwagandha.

 

In this article, we will take a closer look at how ashwagandha can aid in weight loss.

• Ashwagandha and Metabolism

  : One of the key factors that contribute to weight gain is a slow metabolism. A slow metabolism makes it harder for the body to burn calories, leading to an accumulation of fat in the body. Ashwagandha has been shown to have a positive effect on metabolism. Studies have found that ashwagandha can increase the basal metabolic rate (BMR) of the body, which is the number of calories that the body burns at rest. This increase in BMR can help the body burn more calories, even when at rest, leading to weight loss.

• Ashwagandha and Cortisol

  : Cortisol is a hormone that is released in response to stress. High levels of cortisol can lead to weight gain, as it triggers the accumulation of fat in the body. Ashwagandha has been found to have a positive effect on cortisol levels. It helps lower the levels of cortisol in the body, thereby reducing the accumulation of fat in the body. This makes ashwagandha a great herb for those looking to lose weight, especially those who tend to gain weight due to stress.

• Ashwagandha and Appetite

  : Another factor that contributes to weight gain is overeating. Ashwagandha has been found to have a positive effect on appetite. Studies have found that ashwagandha can help reduce food cravings, leading to a reduction in calorie intake. This makes it easier for people to stick to a healthy diet and achieve their weight loss goals.

• Ashwagandha and Muscle Mass

  : Muscle mass plays an important role in weight loss. Muscles burn more calories than fat, even at rest. Therefore, increasing muscle mass can help the body burn more calories, leading to weight loss. Ashwagandha has been found to have a positive effect on muscle mass. It helps increase muscle strength and mass, which can aid in weight loss.

• Ashwagandha and Thyroid Function

  : The thyroid gland plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism. An underactive thyroid gland can lead to weight gain. Ashwagandha has been found to have a positive effect on thyroid function. It helps increase the production of thyroid hormones, which can help boost metabolism and aid in weight loss.

Research Topics.

The Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine.

One study published in the Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine found that ashwagandha root extract supplementation resulted in a significant reduction in body weight, BMI, and waist circumference in overweight adults. The study also found that ashwagandha supplementation reduced fasting blood sugar levels and improved insulin sensitivity.

The Journal of Dietary Supplements.

Another study published in the Journal of Dietary Supplements found that taking ashwagandha extract for eight weeks resulted in a significant reduction in body weight, body mass index, and waist-to-hip ratio in overweight adults.

In addition to its potential weight loss benefits, ashwagandha has many other potential health benefits. Here are some of the top benefits of ashwagandha:

1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb, which means it can help the body adapt to stress. Studies have shown that ashwagandha can reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which can lead to a reduction in stress and anxiety.

One study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that ashwagandha supplementation significantly reduced anxiety levels in adults with a history of chronic stress. Another study published in the Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine found that ashwagandha supplementation significantly reduced anxiety and depression symptoms in individuals with anxiety disorders.

 

2. Boosts Immune Function Ashwagandha has been shown to have immune-boosting properties. It contains compounds known as withanolides, which have been shown to stimulate the immune system.

One study published in the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine found that ashwagandha supplementation increased natural killer cell activity, which plays a key role in the immune system’s ability to fight off infections and cancer cells.

 

3. Improves Brain Function Ashwagandha has been shown to have neuroprotective properties, which means it can help protect the brain from damage. It has also been shown to improve cognitive function and memory.

One study published in the Journal of Dietary Supplements found that ashwagandha supplementation improved reaction time, cognitive processing speed, and memory in healthy adults. Another study published in the Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine found that ashwagandha supplementation improved executive function, attention, and information processing speed in individuals with mild cognitive impairment.

 

4. Reduces Inflammation Ashwagandha has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation throughout the body.

One study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that ashwagandha supplementation significantly reduced markers of inflammation in adults with osteoarthritis. Another study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that ashwagandha supplementation reduced markers of inflammation in individuals with metabolic syndrome.

 

5. Improves Heart Health Ashwagandha has been shown to have potential benefits for heart health. It has been found to reduce cholesterol levels and lower blood pressure, both of which are risk factors for heart disease.

One study published in the Journal of Dietary Supplements found that ashwagandha supplementation significantly reduced total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglyceride levels in adults with high cholesterol. Another study published in the International Journal of Ayurveda Research found that ashwagandha supplementation significantly reduced blood pressure in individuals with hypertension.

 

6. May Have Anti-Cancer Properties Ashwagandha has been shown to have potential anti-cancer properties. It contains compounds that have been found to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and induce cancer cell death.

One study published in the journal BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that ashwagandha extract inhibited the growth of breast cancer cells in vitro. Another study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that ashwagandha extract had anticancer effects on human colon cancer cells in vitro.

 

While ashwagandha has many potential health benefits, it is important to note that more research is needed to fully understand its effects. Additionally, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking ashwagandha or any other supplement.

 

Conclusion.

Ashwagandha is a versatile herb that has been found to have several health benefits, including aiding in weight loss. It can help boost metabolism, reduce cortisol levels, curb appetite, increase muscle mass, and boost thyroid function. If you are looking to lose weight, incorporating ashwagandha into your diet may be beneficial. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before taking any new supplement or herb.

 

Product Link : Click here

 

More Article :- Click here 

 

Research links .

 

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5871210/

 

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/303343480_Studies_of_Ashwagandha_Withania_somnifera_Dunal