Herbs and Supplements to Help Survive Winter and Begin Spring

BY Raven Caracci
The holiday season is over and that holiday cheer has disappeared, the pounds of holiday meals won’t. During the cooler and colder months people have a tendency to eat more.
You are reading this and are probably a bit annoyed that I reminded you of the inevitable truth of what is. But what if I said there were ways to keep that slim figure of yours and still be allowed some self indulgence? I remember last year, I wrote a paper on New Year detoxing. It was a very descriptive article on how to combat the damage done during the Holidays. This year, instead of trying to fix it, I would rather give you the information to prevent it from occurring altogether. Certain herbs, supplements and a bit of self control would be helpful to have on hand this upcoming season.

Herbs to remember herbs

Cinnamon This great spice is an excellent seasoning to add to your eggnog, your yams, ice cream, apple pie, pumpkin pie, and all those goodies bound to show up on the dinner table. By adding cinnamon to a meal, you can help lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels.

Cumin The seeds of this herb can help with digestion. It has been shown to reduce pancreatic inflammation and, by motivating the body to produce pancreatic enzymes, it can help with nutrient assimilation and proper absorption of foods. There have also been studies of this spice reducing blood glucose levels better than other comparable drugs.

Cardamom Not only does it taste amazing, but it can help control your appetite. Instead of binging on your meals, you will feel satisfied a lot sooner. You end up eating less and feeling better at the end of the night.

Supplements to keep on Hand

Enzymes These are essential for the holiday binging. These bad boys help you digest and assimilate all of your food in all the proper places. So while you pig out, the enzymes work like an assembly line to keep that food digesting and not sitting in your stomach. Be sure to find an enzyme supplement with Pancreatin, Amylase, Protease, Casein and Lipase. These particular ones work well for indulgent foods. For instance, Casein is an enzyme beneficial for glutinous foods; and Protease metabolizes proteins.

Probiotics Probiotics go hand in hand with enzymes. They work together to create better digestion and a healthier gut. This good bacteria will work to push out the bad bacteria overloading the body, and replace with good immune enhancing bacteria that protects and heals the body.

Garcinia Cambogia Keeping slim will come a lot easier with this close by. Garcinia Cambogia has a specific ingredient in it called Hydroxycitric Acid. In certain studies, HCA was shown to inhibit the enzyme “Citrate Lyase” which produces fat cells. This is a metabolism booster, appetite controller, and energy booster all in one. Find a good brand from a local health food store, and make sure to follow the directions strictly.

Self Control Understanding the consequences of the holiday and cooler season will better help keep people in control of their diets and attitudes during this season. Although it would be wonderful to dive full force into the abyss of delicious treats and four-course meals, it would be unwise. Tread with caution and try to make good decisions when it comes to what is put on your plate and filled in your glass.
Over all, the most dependable way to overcome holiday feasts is to have self control. It is good to enjoy the season’s festivities and give in every once in awhile, but our health matters most. Be careful of the pie crusts, steer clear from the cranberry sauce, and only have eggnog every other week. Cheers to you and your self-discipline.

Raven Caracci – Your Health & Wellness Magazine Contributor

About the author; Raven Caracci is a Treasure Coast Florida resident and has been involved in the health industry promoting the use of alternative, organic and holistic health for years. She has advised hundreds of people on the use of herbal remedies as alternatives to conventional medicine. Her goal and passion is to help others live a healthier and more natural lifestyle.

The above information is opinion based except where noted. Always contact a licensed professional for information on the above subject or BEFORE applying or practicing the above information.

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