If this is the case, then there is some amazing news for you. You can now lose weight, I mean, really lose weight with this one super-ingredient that is available in your kitchen! It is the wonder-food tamarind. Are you thinking how the humble tamarind can help you in losing weight? Is tamarind good for weight loss? Sit back and read on! You will be amazed!
What Is Tamarind?
Tamarind is a leguminous tree belonging to the Fabaceae family and indigenous to tropical Africa. The tamarind tree produces edible, pod-like fruits, which are used extensively in cuisines around the world.
Nutritional Values Of Tamarind
To understand how tamarind helps one lose weight, we need to first take a look at all the nutrients present in it. Here are the nutritional facts of tamarind (1): Now that we know which nutrients tamarind has, let’s understand how it helps to aid in weight loss.
Tamarind For Weight Loss:
1. Contains Hydroxy Citric Acid
Tamarind contains HCA – hydroxy citric acid which slows down the production of fat. HCA is very similar to citric acid. This acid is present in many other plants too, but it is most prominently found in tamarind. Studies suggest that HCA inhibits the enzyme in the body that promotes fat storage. Hydroxycitric acid also suppresses appetite by increasing serotonin neurotransmitter levels. It also burns fat during long exercises. But research is in progress to check HCA’s effect on metabolic rates (2), (3).
2. Acts As A Mild Laxative
Tamarind also acts as a mild laxative (4). Tamarind juice is effective in treating and preventing bile disorders (5).
3. Helps The Digestive System:
Consumption of tamarind aids in the smooth working of the digestive system. This makes sure your health stays at its optimum levels (6 ).
4. Helps Prevent Overeating:
If you are accumulating pounds due to binge eating and finding it hard to control yourself, then tamarind benefits weight loss by setting up your appetite right (7).
What Are The Other Benefits Of Tamarind?
How much tamarind should I eat daily? 10 grams of tamarind is generally considered safe for daily consumption. Is eating raw tamarind good for weight loss? Yes, raw tamarind is considered good for weight loss. It helps burn fat and may also reduce cholesterol levels, which may trigger weight loss. Can tamarind reduce belly fat? Tamarind has a decent amount of fiber. It may help promote satiety and reduce food intake, which may trigger overall weight loss, including belly fat loss.
