These days, there is a great need for overweight Americans to lose those excess pounds. Being healthy would not only lead them to have a healthier lifestyle but it will also literally lighten their load, and improve their overall well-being.

There is a long list of dieting options available. There are exercise programs, exercise machines, dietary supplements, dietary food and drinks, diet pills – there are even soaps which claim to help you lose pounds while you bathe.

One other available option to shed off those unwanted pounds is to go herbal.

Herbal weight loss products have been in great demand for people who want to lose weight the natural way. However, when you take herbal supplements to lose weight, you would have to wait for a longer time for the results because of the more subtle effects of medicines which came from plants and natural herbs.

Here are some herbal weight loss options that you might want to consider:

1. Herbal weight loss products

There are a lot of herbal weight loss products available in the market now. You can check out the Internet and you will find a lot of herbal weight loss pills and products.

Be careful, however, as there are some products which claim to be safe and natural because they are herbal, but some actually have side effects because of non-extensive research on the effects of these products.

Here are some ingredients and chemicals which make up some herbal weight loss products that you should watch out for, as they might have harmful effects to your health:

> Senna. This is an herbal laxative. Senna is a main ingredient in weight loss teas, and it works by stimulation the colon. The downside effect of this herb is dehydration. It can also lead to colon problems and can become addictive. Some people, when addicted, are unable to perform bowel movements without it, so watch out.

> Chromium picolinate. This is a synthetic compound found in herbal weight loss products. Chromium is a nutrient which helps regulate blood-sugar level. However, this ingredient, when taken in high doses, may cause damage in the chromosomes. It can also lead to dehydration.

> St. John’s wort. This supplement increases the production of a chemical in the brain. If not used properly, it may cause eye and skin sensitivity, mild gastrointestinal distress, fatigue and itching.

Although a lot of herbal products claim to be safe and natural, it is better to scrutinize the ingredients and research about the effects of the product itself before going for these herbal dietary pills.

2. Organic food.

In Wichita, Kansas, organic food has found its way to more homes and restaurants. Organic food devotees believe that consuming organic goodies help their bodies as well as the environment.

A person who buys organically raised eggs and vegetables claim to be healthier, and they are not spending money on doctors and prescriptions as these keep them healthier and away from the hospital. This could also be an option for weight watchers, as organic food is known to be kinder to your weight than chemically-processed food products.

3. Green Tea.

Studies show that intake of green tea, or green tea extracts burns extra calories. Also, green tea with caffeine can increase fat burning by up to 40% thereby reducing fat.

This is one good option for those who want to lose weight. In a study done, people who took green tea were found to lose 2 to 3 times more weight than those who did not drink green tea.

These results show that green tea is a natural product for the treatment of obesity. Thus, it also makes for a healthier dietary option, not to mention the good effects that it has on the body as compared to caffeine. A cup of tea gives an emmediate energy lift without the side effects of caffeine.

3. Caffeine.

Coffee provides an energy boost to increase fat burning. Caffeine also provides a likelihood to be active, which in turn increases your rate of calorie burn.

4. Immortality Herb

This herb, whose scientific name is Gymnostemna Pentaphyllum, is known to have the following benefits:

> increases healthy blood flow
> reduces artery blocks
> aids healthy blood pressure
> increases the rate of fat burning

5. Apple Cider Vinegar

There are pills and food supplements whose main ingredient is apple cider vinegar. Here are the benefits of taking this herbal option:

> weight loss
> improved cholesterol level
> improved high blood pressure
> helps prevent rheumatoid arthritis

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Do you want to lose weight? Have you found that diet and exercise simply just arent enough? If so, you may turn to surgical procedures. These surgeries fall into the category of bariatric surgeries. You do have many options, but the LapBand system is one of the most popular.

As you know, not all individuals are the same. That is why the LapBand, as much as it comes highly rated and recommended, is not for everyone. Your doctor will help you determine if the LapBand surgery is your best course of action. However, before you schedule a consultation appointment, you may wonder if the LapBand surgery is right for you. To determine if so, closely examining requirements.

Before highlighting a few LapBand surgery requirements, it is important to make note of variances. Thousands of surgeons in the United States perform the LapBand surgery. Although each of these surgeons operate under strict guidelines, many have their own restrictions. A few exceptions to the common eligibility requirements, which are outlined below, may be found on a case-by-case basis.

Weight. On average, it is recommended that patients are 100 pounds overweight. This translates into a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or more. According to the Body Mass Index (BMI), this also translates into severe or morbid obesity.

Minor weight related complications. As previously stated, obesity can lead to other health complications. Two examples are diabetes and asthma. When weight loss is achieved, patients suffering from these conditions often see their symptoms disappear. In these instances, a slight adjustment may be made to the above mentioned weight criteria. For example, those who are only 85 pounds overweight, but suffer from diabetes are still ideal candidates for the LapBand system.

Age. Most surgeons operate on criteria that recommends a patient be between the ages of 18 and 60. Those who are young and healthy are able to recovery and experience less compilations from the LapBand surgery. The minimum age of 18 is often selected due to choice. Unless a young child is in danger due to severe obesity, most professionals wait until the child turns 18 and is able to legally make their own health decisions.

Failure of other weight loss alternatives. Many surgeons in the United States perform the LapBand surgery, although most only use it as a last resort. For that reason, it is suggested you try other methods of weight loss. Your doctor may develop a healthy eating and exercise plan for you. If you are unable to see success, LapBand may be next best course of action.

Long running obesity problem. It is not uncommon for a persons weight for balloon from time to time. Depression and lifestyle changes can attribute to a weight gain. You are a better candidate for LapBand surgery if you have been obese for five or more years, as opposed to one year.

Family history of obesity. A family history of obesity does not necessarily guarantee that descendants will be overweight, but it increases the risk. If you have a family history of obesity and have been plagued with it for years, the LapBand surgery may be your best option.

No health complications. Health related complications impact ones eligibility for the LapBand surgery on a number of different levels. For starters, some health complications make individuals ideal candidates for surgery. This is common in the case of diabetes. With weight loss, diabetes disappear, making surgery well worth the risk. On the other hand, those suffering from cancer and women who are pregnant or expected to become pregnant are advised against undergoing the LapBand procedure.

Understanding. Ideal candidates for the LapBand system are between the ages of 18 and 60 and have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or more. With that said, these qualifications do not automatically make one eligible for the procedure. A clear understanding and commitment is required. The LapBand surgery itself is not what results in weight loss. Surgery combined with dietary changes results in weight loss. If you are unable to restrict your diet, the surgery is not right for you.

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How to Talk to a Loved One about LapBand Surgery

In many aspects, obesity is referred to as a disease. This is because some suffering from obesity cannot change their lifestyle. Some do not have the needed determination, others have tried healthy eating and exercise without the right results. This is when many opt to give up. If you are related to one of those individuals, you may want to help. One approach you should examine is that of LapBand surgery.

LapBand surgery is the fastest growing weight loss surgery in the United States. It was introduced in 2001 and its popularity continues to grow. What makes the LapBand system the most preferred weight loss surgery in the United States? Its advantages. These advantages include a short recovery period and low risk of complications. These advantages are due to the LapBand system. Unlike gastric bypass surgery, an adjustable gastric band is used to reduce the stomach size.

Since the LapBand surgery comes highly rated and recommended, you may want to suggest it to an obese loved one, but how?

First, it is important to learn about the surgery. Not everyone is an ideal candidate. Do not suggest it as an option without first knowing if your loved one will qualify. So will they? Your best option is to start researching. You can do so online. The LapBand surgery is discussed in detail on many medical websites.

Another ideal approach is to speak with your own doctor. Approach your primary care physician and express your concern for your loved one. Your doctor should take the time to discuss the LapBand procedure with you. They will also outline the common criteria that most surgeons use to determine legibility.

Speaking of those requirements, on average, most doctors will only operate on patients between the ages of 18 and 60. Being overweight isnt enough. Many surgeons use LapBand surgery as a last resort; therefore, those with severe to morbid obesity are better candidates. On average, patients have Body Mass Index (BMI) rating of 40 or more. Most importantly, is drive and determination. The LapBand itself will not result in weight loss, it is the band combined with diet restrictions.

Once you are sure that your family member will likely qualify as a LapBand patient, it is time to start the conversation. You may opt for a group discussion. This is ideal in cases where the parent is obese. Discussing the LapBand surgery with an obese relative in a group does have risks. Your loved one may feel that everyone is gaining up on them. For that reason, your concerned group should only contain immediate family members.

You also have the option of discussing LapBand surgery as a private matter. For example, if your sister is suffering from severe obesity, approach her one-on-one. Explain your concerns and suggest the LapBand surgery. When doing so, have more than just your word. Documents printed from the internet or LapBand brochures from a medical office are recommended.

As previously stated, LapBand is often used as a last resort. If your loved one is suffering from morbid obesity, they may have come to terms with their health. Certain guidelines may be in place. For example, they may have a will or already assigned a power of attorney. If that person is you, speak to your loved ones physician. In most cases, doctor patient confidently prevents too much information from being disclosed, but no harm can come from making an inquiry.

Regardless of which approach you take, use extreme caution. Be kind and gentle. The wrong approach can lead to serious consequences, including a hurtful family dispute.

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The LapBand surgery is a successful and minimally invasive procedure that is rapidly increasing in popularity in the United States. With the LapBand procedure, hospitalization is often less than 24 hours, the band is adjustable, and the procedure is 100% reversible.

If you are severely or morbidly obese with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or higher, if you are between the ages of 18 and 60, and if you have the desire to improve your health, you are the perfect candidate for the LapBand. So, what is next? Find the perfect surgeon.

So, how can find qualified LapBand surgeons?

Medical referrals. If you suffer from obesity, you may have regular checkups with your primary care physician. Mention the LapBand system. Chances are your doctor will agree with your decision to learn more. The next step is to refer you to a qualified LapBand surgeon. Medical referrals are ideal. Your primary care physician has your best interest in mind, meaning they will not refer you to just anyone.

Recommendations from friends and family. As previously stated, the LapBand system is increasing in popularity in the United States. This means that you may know someone who has undergone the procedure. If so, ask for advice. Not only can you learn a lot about the procedure, such as preparation and recovery, but you can also get a personal referral. What surgeon performed their surgery? Were they pleased with the results?

Phone book. Your local phone book is an easy way to find a local LapBand surgeon. By opting for a local surgeon, you can save money on travel time expenses. Turn to the yellow pages of your phone book. Under the heading of surgeons, or physicians, you should find the contact information needed. Unless you find listings specifically outlining the LapBand, contact all surgeons in the area.

Online business directories. If you reside in a small city or town, your local phone book may not produce results. In that instance, turn to the internet, namely online business directories. Online business directories allow you to search for a business based on location, such as a LapBand surgeon in Los Angeles, California. To maximize your search results, eliminate the phrase LapBand and search for a surgeon.

Recommendations online. What is nice about using an online business directory is that most enable ratings and reviews. Use this to your advantage. After all, you are paying up to $20,000 for the LapBand system, so get quality results. Look for surgeons with high ratings. Online messages boards discussing the subject may also contain referrals and personal recommendations.

Standard internet search. In keeping with using the internet, perform a standard internet search. You can do so on Google or Yahoo. Your internet search phrase should include your location and the phrase LapBand. Your results should lead to the online websites of weight loss surgeons in or around the surrounding area. You may also be directed to bariatric surgeon directories, but you will still be provided with the appropriate contact information.

By taking the above mentioned steps, you should be able to find a surgeon who can perform the LapBand procedure. With that said, you need to do more than just find a surgeon. Schedule a consultation appointment. Use this as the opportunity to find a quality surgeon that meets and exceeds your expectations.

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