Sandhya Raghavan
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Written By: Sandhya Raghavan | Updated : November 20, 2017 6:48 PM IST
If you grew up in an Indian household, you d be familiar with Moringa Oleifera, also known by other names such as drumstick tree or horseradish tree. Called sahjan in the north and muringa (where it derives its scientific name from) in the south, moringa is a treasure trove of antioxidants and bioactive compounds. The health world is already going gaga over its many nutritional benefits and lately, it has also clinched a superfood tag for itself. Since it is nutritionally dense, it s called a multi-purpose herbal plant that doubles as food and medicine.
It s considered a good source of proteins, vitamins, beta-carotene, amino acids and various phonolics. It also supplies the body with a rare yet potent combination of zeatin, quercetin, beta-sitosterol, caffeoylquinic acid and kaempferol. Every part of the moringa plant from its fruits to its bark can be for a variety of therapeutic purposes. Today, let us focus on its effects on weight loss.
The plant contains a potent phytochemical called moringa isothiocyanate, which is known to have antidiabetic effects. By including moringa leaves in your daily diet, it can help you improve glucose tolerance and insulin signalling. Studies suggest that it also positively affects your leptin levels, the hormone which signals your brain that you are full. Therefore, experts opine that problems can obesity could be brought under control with a daily dose of moringa. Make moringa leaves or supplements a part of your daily diet to see a significant reduction in your weight. A simple subzi made out of the moringa leaves gives you enough fibre and keep you full for longer, not to mention the amazing nutritional benefits it provides.
Moringa also helps in shedding water weight. During certain times of the month, especially around the time of menses, women notice that their weight scales tipping onto the wrong side. This is probably because of water retention. Apart from causing discomfort, the excess water weight can also make you look a few kilos heavier. During such days, consider having moringa tea or moringa infused water throughout the day. An excellent diuretic, moringa helps in increasing your urine output and expelling excess water out of the body.
This nutritious superfood is also easily available in India both in its natural and supplement form. However, it can t guarantee any drastic weight loss on its done. For maximum benefits, moringa should be made a part of your daily fitness routine which includes healthy eating and exercise.
References:
1. Olayaki LA, Irekpita JE, Yakubu MT, Ojo OO. Methanolic extract of Moringa oleifera leaves improves glucose tolerance, glycogen synthesis and lipid metabolism in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. J Basic Clin Physiol Pharmacol. 2015 Nov;26(6):585-93. doi: 10.1515/jbcpp-2014-0129. PubMed PMID: 26124050.
2.Fekadu N, Basha H, Meresa A, Degu S, Girma B, Geleta B. Diuretic activity of the aqueous crude extract and hot tea infusion of Moringa stenopetala (Baker f.) Cufod. leaves in rats. J Exp Pharmacol. 2017 Jun 21;9:73-80. doi:
10.2147/JEP.S133778. eCollection 2017. PubMed PMID: 28684924; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC5484571
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