Obese and overweight men and women are often deficient in crucial vitamins and minerals. New studies show that taking a simple over-the-counter multivitamin like Centrum or One-A-Day, can stave off hunger and help dieters lose weight.
Multivitamins and Mineral Supplements Promote Weight Loss
According to a study published in the February 2010 issue of International Journal of Obesity women who take a vitamin and mineral supplement will lose more weight than those who do not. The study, which involved 96 obese Chinese women, divided participants into three groups. The first group took a multivitamin. The second group took a calcium supplement. The third group took a placebo.
While taking the multivitamins, the women continued to eat as they normally did. After 26 weeks, the group that took the multivitamin and mineral supplement lost more weight than the other groups. They had lower body weight, BMI, and fat mass. They also had higher HDL, or good cholesterol. Participants who took the calcium supplement had higher HDL but no significant weight loss. Participants who took the placebo had no significant change in body weight, BMI, fat mass, or cholesterol.
Multivitamins Can Stave Off Hunger, Helping Dieters Lose Weight
In 2008, The British Journal of Nutrition published a study analyzing how taking multivitamin and mineral supplements effects weight loss. Male dieters who took the supplements lost body weight and fat mass, while those who took placebos did not. Women taking supplements did not experience dramatic weight loss, but they did report feeling less hungry while dieting.
Ensuring Proper Vitamins and Mineral Levels May Keep Hunger in Check
Experts are still studying the effects of vitamins and minerals on weight loss, and they continue to interpret data from studies like these. Some nutritionists believe a body that is deficient in vitamins and minerals will attempt to replenish itself with needed nutrients. This can increase appetite, derailing a well intentioned diet. If the body already has necessary nutrients, believe nutritionists, a dieter's appetite is more likely to stay in check.
A Healthy Diet and a Multivitamin May Help Dieters Lose Weight
Of course, the best way to get vitamins and minerals is from food. But people today are busy, and many of the convenience foods consumed in the modern world are deficient in crucial nutrients. Taking one of the widely available over the counter vitamin and mineral supplements can provide the body with necessary nutrients. Taking them may even help stave off hunger and promote weight loss as well.
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Christine Harmon - Christine Harmon is a published author, trainer, and mommy obsessed with health, fitness, and all that makes the body work ...
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