Moringa and weight loss: Why this superfood is a must to watch your waistline

Fat-busting indicators: Packed with 92 nutrients, it can help lower blood sugar levels by stopping sugars from being turned into new fat cells. It regulates blood sugar levels and improves insulin sensitivity. It contains methionine, which is known to absorb fat and reduce cholesterol, thereby burning belly fat naturally. The B vitamins in moringa leaves also boost conversion of foods to energy and increase metabolism. When the body absorbs and burns up food effectively, it registers weight loss.

Although animal and test-tube studies show that moringa can reduce fat formation and enhance fat breakdown, no human study bears this out. However, an eight week mixed study in 41 obese people on an identical diet and exercise regime found that 900 mg of a supplement mix of moringa, turmeric and curry leaves helped them lose around 4.8 kg. In a Saudi study of 2021, moringa peregrina leaf extracts resulted in anti-obesity, hypoglycemic and anti-hyperlipidemic effects.

Antioxidants: Moringa is high in antioxidants such as quercetin, chlorogenic acid and beta-carotene, which combat oxidative stress and inflammation. Lowering inflammation levels may support metabolic health and weight management.

Digestive health: Moringa contains fibre that can promote digestive health. A healthy digestive system may indirectly contribute to weight management by aiding in proper nutrient absorption and waste elimination.

Despite these potential benefits, using moringa alone as a weight loss solution may not yield significant results. That involves a combination of factors, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management.

It’s essential to approach its use for weight loss cautiously, understanding that it’s not a magic solution. If you are diabetic, always discuss its consumption with your doctor as it can interfere with related medication. It is also advisable to begin gradually and avoid larger doses as those may cause uterine contraction and have a laxative effect.

So consult healthcare professionals before making significant dietary changes or using supplements. Weight loss is always a comprehensive package of a diet, exercise, sleep patterns and lifestyle modifications.