Celery for Weight Loss: Does It Work?

Does celery have a positive impact on weight loss, or is it just another fad diet ingredient? Celery is a nutritional powerhouse with numerous health benefits that can help you jumpstart your weight loss journey. However, it is not a miracle vegetable that will make you shed extra pounds overnight.

This article explores how to use celery for weight loss and what extra benefits and side effects to expect.

Celery for weight loss.

Does Celery Affect Weight?

Celery is a low-calorie food that promotes weight loss by boosting metabolism, increasing fat burn, and prolonging satiety.

Most medical weight loss programs add it to their dietary plans because it regulates blood pressure, aids digestion, and improves overall health.

Eating more celery is an excellent way to start your weight loss journey. However, you will need to make other lifestyle adjustments, such as exercising more, to reach your weight goals and stay fit.

How to Use Celery for Weight Loss

This versatile and highly nutritious vegetable can improve the flavor and texture of your meals. You can incorporate celery into your weight-loss meal plan in the following ways:

Additional Health Benefits of Celery

In addition to increasing the rate at which your body burns calories, celery offers many other health benefits.

Keep in mind that these health benefits are highly individual and require more scientific evidence. Always consult a doctor or a licensed dietitian before changing your diet.

Celery Risks and Side Effects

Although celery benefits health and weight management in general, it involves certain risks. It is not recommended during pregnancy or for people with kidney inflammation.

The side effects include the following:

Celery and Weight Loss: Frequently Asked Questions

The exact effect celery has on weight loss is still an ongoing debate. With so many conflicting views and solutions, it may be a little confusing.

Here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions to help you get started.

Is Celery Juice Good for Weight Loss?

Many people drink celery juice to lose belly fat or reduce overall BMI. However, there is limited scientific evidence to support the claim that juicing celery is beneficial for weight loss.

Celery juice can be a suitable replacement for high-calorie drinks. You can drink it on its own or add it to green smoothies to make a more nutritionally balanced beverage.

In summary, while celery juice is a great way to hydrate and ingest essential nutrients, juicing removes fiber and can lead to potential digestive issues, such as bloating and gas.

Is Celery Good for Losing Fat?

Celery is a rich source of dietary fiber, which promotes fat loss by curbing appetite, keeping gut bacteria healthy, and slowing down digestion. Combine it with a well-balanced diet and an exercise plan to maximize the results.

Does Eating Celery Speed Up Your Metabolism?

Eating celery can increase metabolism for weight loss because chewing triggers the release of digestive enzymes that impact your metabolic rate. Celery will also increase your daily water intake, helping your body metabolize stored fat and carbohydrates.

How Much Celery to Eat for Weight Loss?

There are no one-size-fits-all recommendations for eating celery to lose weight. Since it is a low-calorie food, caloric restrictions typically do not apply.

Consult a certified nutritionist to adjust the serving size depending on your weight goals, body mass index (BMI), and overall health condition.


Note: Discover 19 practical weight loss tips to get healthy and fit.


Conclusion

Eating nutrient-dense, low-calorie foods is always a good idea if you are on a weight loss regimen. Celery works best if you pair it with a whole-food diet and a regular workout plan. You can use it as a healthy, refreshing snack to enhance satiety and enjoy its additional health benefits.

Contact our weight loss experts at Vibrant Vitality Clinic for more information.

Phentermine for Weight Loss: How Does It Work?

Phentermine is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant drug that works as an appetite suppressant and is available only on prescription. Medical weight loss experts may add it to a dieting and exercise regime to help their patients kickstart their weight loss journey.

Read about how phentermine for weight loss works, how to take it, and what to expect, and find out if it is suitable for you.

Phentermine for Weight Loss.

Does Phentermine Affect Weight?

Phentermine belongs to the class of drugs called anorectics or anorexigenics, also known as appetite suppressants. It increases the levels of the brain’s neurotransmitters, norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin. Higher amounts of these chemicals induce a feeling of fullness, thereby minimizing food cravings, reducing calorie intake, and gradually leading to weight loss.

The exact way phentermine works to suppress appetite remains unclear. Some patients develop a tolerance to it over time and may require a medication switch.

Some weight-reducing pills (e.g., Qsymia) contain phentermine and topiramate to speed up weight loss on calorie-restricted diets.

How Much Weight Can I Lose with Phentermine?

According to a study published in the Annals of Pharmacotherapy, you can lose 10% to 11% of total body mass after a year of taking Qsymia (15mg phentermine/92mg topiramate). Other studies found that the rate of weight loss is higher in the earlier months of therapy and that it decreases with prolonged use.

The speed of a patient’s weight speed will depend on the following factors:

Patients can expect additional weight-related improvements, such as reduced belly fat, lower blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol.


Note: Discover the best appetite suppressants to manage cravings.


Benefits of Using Phentermine for Weight Loss

Phentermine is a short-term weight loss aid with multiple benefits, including the following:

Phentermine Risks and Side Effects

Phentermine shows no significant side effects as a short-term weight loss medication. However, there is inconclusive evidence to confirm its long-term safety.

The FDA-approved combination of phentermine and topiramate in reduced dosages is a safer, long-term solution for losing weight. Nonetheless, some risks and side effects are involved.

Common side effects are mild and temporary, including the following:

Serious complications occur rarely and require immediate medical assistance. They include the following:

Phentermine Withdrawal Symptoms

Do not change the dosage without consulting the doctor. If you stop using this medication abruptly, you may experience some of the following withdrawal symptoms:

Withdrawal is more likely if you have used phentermine in higher dosages or for an extended period. Patients with a history of substance abuse may develop addiction to phentermine, too.

Your doctor may lower the dosage or prescribe medication to alleviate the symptoms. Seek prompt medical help if you notice any of the mentioned symptoms.

Interactions Between Phentermine and Other Medication

Phentermine may interact with 174 prescription and over-the-counter drugs, including the following:

A dangerous drug interaction may occur with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs):

Do not self-medicate with phentermine. Seek medical advice to learn more about its safety, optimal dosage, and potential drug interactions.


Note: If you are considering other weight loss options, check out our list of the best weight loss products.


Combining phentermine for weight loss with an active lifestyle.

Who Can Use Phentermine for Weight Loss?

Doctors prescribe phentermine to adults and children aged 12 years or older with an initial BMI equal to or in excess of 30 kg/m2, which falls within the obesity range.

Phentermine is typically prescribed to individuals who have not been able to lose excess weight with other diet pills, or who have additional weight-related medical conditions (e.g., high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure).

Who Should Not Use Phentermine?

Use of phentermine is contraindicated if the patient has any of the following conditions:

Safety Measures

A pregnancy test should be done before starting this medication and as needed while using this medication. Blood pressure and heart rate should be checked and monitored. Patients should also be monitored for suicide ideation and mood changes.

How to Take Phentermine for Weight Loss

The recommended FDA-approved dosage is one 8-mg pill taken three times a day, at least 30 minutes before meals. Doctors may prescribe a higher dosage (e.g., 15, 30, or 37.5 mg) that you can take once a day, either before breakfast or 1-2 hours after breakfast.

The phentermine and topiramate blend (i.e., Qsymia) is an extended-release capsule taken in the morning. It is available in four doses (3.75-15 mg of phentermine and 23-92 of topiramate).

Take phentermine by mouth with a glass of water, as directed by your doctor. Do not crush or chew, and do not take more than directed. In case of overdosage, contact an emergency room immediately.


Note: Struggling to reach your health goals? Try these weight loss tips.


Conclusion

Phentermine can help patients lose weight in combination with a reduced-calorie diet, exercise, and behavior changes. Doctors usually prescribe it to people who have had no significant improvements with other lifestyle modifications, dieting programs, and exercise plans.

Contact Vibrant Vitality Clinic’s weight loss experts for more information and advice.

Hormones and Mental Health: How Are They Related?

Every aspect of our health – mental, physical, and emotional – is regulated by hormones. These molecules carry instructions to all cells to perform their role and support the smooth functioning of our bodies. Any hormonal disruption in this intricate web of finely tuned operations can lead to symptoms of deteriorating health.

This article explores how hormones and mental health relate to one another, which hormonal imbalances can trigger mental disorders, and how to restore emotional and psychological stability.  

How are hormones and mental health related?

Can Your Hormones Affect Your Mental Health?

Hormonal activity is pivotal in regulating our mood and mental health. Hormones naturally fluctuate depending on the time of day, month, life period, or external factors. Some of these natural oscillations are:

How does ghrelin affect mental health?

These fluctuations are normal and temporary. However, a long-term and intense hormonal imbalance can lead to a decline in our health, including the following mental disorders:

What Hormones Affect Your Mental Health?

The following hormones are usually associated with mental health. They often interact with and cause other hormonal imbalances rather than acting as isolated factors that degrade our wellbeing.

Cortisol

The adrenal glands release cortisol as a natural response to a challenge or threat. While cortisol spikes help us deal with short-term exposure to stress, chronically heightened cortisol can lead to various health problems. It disrupts serotonin and dopamine balance, impairing cognitive function, mood, and sleep patterns.

Individual responses to stress and elevated cortisol vary, so not everyone develops the same mental issues when exposed to chronic stress.


Note: Learn more about how stress and hormones are related.


How does cortisol affect mental health?

Catecholamines

The primary catecholamines are adrenaline, noradrenaline, and dopamine. Like cortisol, they are released in stressful situations to enhance people’s alertness and focus during the “fight or flight” response.

Excessive adrenaline and noradrenaline release can heighten feelings of restlessness and irritability, exacerbating anxiety, panic attacks, and other existing mental problems. Low levels of these hormones may lead to depression and fatigue.

Dopamine also acts as a “reward” hormone, increasing happiness and motivation when we accomplish something. Too much dopamine can lead to insomnia, difficulty controlling impulses, and aggression, while not enough dopamine may cause mood swings, lack of motivation, and memory and concentration problems.

Sex Hormones

Estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone are primarily responsible for our reproductive health, but they have various roles, including mood management and neuroprotection. This is how fluctuations in sex hormone levels can act on our emotions and psychology:


Note: Learn more about the correlation between low testosterone levels and fatigue.


Melatonin

Known as the sleep hormone, melatonin regulates the sleep-wake cycle. Disruptions in melatonin levels directly affect sleep, and, indirectly, mood and brain health. Many mental disorders are related to sleep deprivation, including the loss of cognitive abilities, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and more.

How does melatonin affect mental health?

Ghrelin

Ghrelin is mainly responsible for controlling appetite and stimulating growth hormone release. Early research suggests it may also indirectly affect mental health by modulating serotonin and dopamine levels, exhibiting antidepressant properties.

Leptin

Like ghrelin, leptin has not been extensively studied for its role in mental health. Its primary function is to regulate hunger and energy balance. However, limited research demonstrates it may regulate mood and emotions, and insufficient leptin levels have been found to exacerbate depressive behavior.

Oxytocin

Known as the love hormone, oxytocin promotes positive states, including relaxation, social connection, psychological stability, and sexual arousal. Low levels of oxytocin are associated with depressive symptoms, anxiety, and addiction.  

How does oxytocin affect mental health?

Vasopressin

Vasopressin’s key role is to regulate the water balance and blood pressure, but increasing evidence suggests it may act with oxytocin to regulate emotional behavior and specific cognitive processes. Research shows that stress-induced vasopressin and oxytocin imbalance may impair cognitive skills and cause depression, schizophrenia, autism, and bipolar disorder.

How to Regulate Hormones and Improve Your Mental Health?

Deteriorating mental health usually results from several complex factors. To ensure proper treatment, patients need to see a medical professional to determine the physiological causes of their symptoms.

Hormonal imbalances and related symptoms usually require a mix of strategies, including:

Hormone Therapy

In case of a diagnosed sex hormone imbalance, doctors often prescribe hormone replacement therapy. The treatment involves taking testosterone, estrogen, or progesterone to restore hormonal balance. Patients often report an improvement in their psychological wellbeing.

Hormone therapy helps regulate hormones and improves mental health.


Note: Our medical experts offer hormone therapy to men and women whose symptoms make their everyday lives difficult. For more information on how hormone therapy works, check out our guides on:


Counseling

Psychotherapy helps patients deal with trauma, stress, and other common hormonal imbalance triggers. It gives patients the tools to overcome the emotional and psychological factors affecting their sleep, eating patterns, ability to relax, and other hormone-disrupting behaviors.

Regular Exercise

Numerous studies and patient experience demonstrate the impressive potential of regular physical activity in promoting overall health. Just 30 minutes of daily exercise that increases the heart rate can raise oxytocin and serotonin levels, reduce cortisol and adrenalin, improve energy and motivation, and induce positive feelings.

Balanced Diet

A diet high in sugars and processed foods lacks essential nutrients, interfering with healthy cellular processes and disrupting hormonal activity. To balance hormones, ensure your meals mainly consist of nutrient-dense foods – leafy greens, legumes, fruits, lean meat, non-fat dairy, nuts, and seeds.

Vitamin Supplements

Vitamin deficiencies commonly trigger hormonal imbalances. Talk to your medical provider to determine if a lack of a certain vitamin is affecting your mental wellbeing. They may recommend taking a B complex or vitamin D, as these vitamin deficiencies are known to cause mood-related symptoms.

Vibrant B supplement for mental health.


Note: For more information on which vitamins and supplements may exhibit hormone-balancing and mood-boosting benefits, refer to our guides:


IV Therapy

IV therapy is a popular treatment for an instant vitamin infusion and energy boost. Some patients report feeling relaxed, calm, uplifted, and more focused after the treatment. Regular sessions may help restore hormonal balance and relieve some of the more severe symptoms of mood disorders.

More Sleep

Disrupted sleep patterns and hormonal imbalances perpetuate one another and often lead to more severe mental problems. To break the cycle, try improving your sleeping conditions by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, eliminating distractions before bed (TV, cell phone, etc.), and ensuring the bedroom is dark, silent, and cool.  

Stress Relief

Chronic stress is one of the main triggers of mental problems. Introduce the following activities to relax and reduce cortisol levels:

Can Mental Health Affect Your Hormones?

Hormonal imbalances often trigger mental problems, but it also works the other way around. For example, stressful situations increase cortisol production, eventually leading to anxiety. Anxiety heightens the feelings of worry and fear, contributing to elevated cortisol release.

Depression, anxiety, and mood disorders correlate with many hormonal imbalances. Longer periods in these states can play havoc with levels of serotonin, dopamine, sex hormones, thyroid hormones, and others.

Conclusion

Hormones regulate almost every physiological process in our bodies. Long-term fluctuations in hormonal levels can trigger various symptoms, both physical and mental. It is vital to employ various strategies for maintaining hormonal balance and preventing mild, passing symptoms from becoming persistent mental struggles.

If you need medical help restoring hormonal balance and a positive mental attitude, contact our friendly medical team at Vibrant Vitality Clinic.

How to Increase Metabolism for Weight Loss

Metabolism is a self-regulating mechanism that helps your body turn food into energy. A slower metabolic rate may thwart weight loss regardless of your efforts. That is why it is essential to learn how to boost metabolism to manage weight, increase energy, and stay fit.

This article gives you 12 actionable tips to help you improve your metabolism to jumpstart weight loss.

how to increase metabolism for weight loss

12 Ways to Increase Metabolism for Weight Loss

The weight-loss puzzle has many pieces that need to come together to produce lasting results. The good news is that there are ways to speed up your metabolism and lose weight.

1. Do High-Intensity Workouts or Weight Train

Muscle cells are more metabolically active than fat because they burn more calories. People with more muscle mass burn more calories at rest, and regular physical exercise will enable you to drop extra pounds even when relaxing.

Two activities with the greatest metabolic impact are the following:

Working out to increase metabolism.

Note: You can pair your workouts with CoolTone muscle-toning treatments to achieve a well-defined, chiseled look.


2. Don't Skip Meals

Skipping meals is stressful for the body and often leads to overeating. Without a regular nutrient intake, the body starts conserving energy to survive the perceived threat of “food scarcity.” This self-imposed conservation mode slows the metabolism.

Moreover, irregular meals destabilize blood sugar levels, causing energy dips, mood swings, and emotional eating. Appetite suppressants can help you curb unhealthy cravings, but they can’t help much if you don’t eat regularly.

You can eliminate this bad habit by planning and preparing your meals in advance.


Note: Discover the best appetite suppressants to increase satiety and enhance calorie burning.


3. Drink More Water

Research confirms that increased hydration leads to weight loss. Your body needs water to metabolize stored fat and carbohydrates. Drinking water can also help you lose weight by reducing liquid calorie intake (e.g., soda, juice).

If you are dehydrated, your metabolism slows down, and you are more likely to experience muscle cramps and fatigue after workouts.

There is no standard recommendation for daily water intake, but you can get more hydrated by:

Drinking water to increase metabolism for weight loss.

4. Eat Smaller Portions, But More Often

You may have heard that small, frequent meals speed up metabolism and aid weight loss. There are no conclusive studies to support this popular claim. Nevertheless, healthy, balanced, small-portion meals prevent binge eating, stabilize blood sugar levels, and provide a steady supply of nutrients. Digesting food also activates metabolism slightly by producing a thermic effect.

There is no “optimal” number of meals that applies to everyone. Listen to your body’s cues and consult a professional nutritionist to optimize your meal frequency.  

5. Eat at Regular Times

Your body loves consistency and predictability. Research indicates that a regular eating pattern and regular fasting periods benefit your metabolism by:


Note: Find out how intermittent fasting supports weight loss.


Eating regularly to increase metabolism for weight loss.

6. Eat Metabolism-Boosting Foods

Adopt a fat-burning diet rich in fiber and protein to prolong satiety and rev up your metabolism. Here is a list of some of the most effective metabolism-boosting foods:


Note: Find out if rice is good for weight loss and how to pick the best type for weight management.


Metabolism-boosting foods.

7. Supplement with Vitamins, Minerals, and Medication

Vitamins and minerals are crucial for metabolic health because they impact energy storage and release and help the body metabolize carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.

The following supplements have shown positive effects on metabolism:


Note: Find out if you are a good candidate for a medically supervised weight loss program and check out our medical weight loss pricing.


8. Avoid Low-Calorie Crash Diets

Low-calorie fad diets set unrealistic expectations by promising fast results. While crash diets may help you drop pounds quickly, they also cause lean muscle loss and nutritional deficiencies.

Crash diets also trigger metabolic slowdown, which occurs when the body enters “starvation mode” and tries to conserve energy. The final result of this kind of dieting is rapid weight gain once you resume normal eating.

9. Get Quality Sleep

According to one study, lack of sleep can decrease your resting metabolic rate as the body combats sleep deprivation by trying to conserve energy needed for survival. You can increase your metabolism by sleeping 7 to 8 hours every night and going to bed earlier.


Note: Natural supplements, such as Relora, can help you promote deep restorative sleep, calm the nervous system, and shorten sleep latency.


Vibrant Relora supplement for increasing metabolism to support weight loss.

10. Reduce Stress

Stress and weight gain are inextricably linked. Chronic stress is characterized by elevated cortisol levels that can disrupt metabolic processes in the following ways:

You can relieve stress by engaging in relaxing activities, taking supplements and vitamins for stress, and prioritizing quality time with family and friends.

Reducing stress improves the metabolism and aids weight loss efforts.

11. Practice Cold Exposure

Research shows that cold exposure improves energy expenditure and metabolic health. Cold temperature activates the brown adipose tissue (BAT) responsible for turning glucose and fat molecules into heat. The result is reduced inflammation, swelling, and increased blood flow. This altered energy balance has a preventive impact on diabetes and obesity.

You can expose yourself to cold daily in a shower or a plunge. Experts recommend gradual immersion that allows your body to ease into the practice and build tolerance for cold over time.

Refrain from cold exposure if you are pregnant or have a heart condition, respiratory problems, or cardiovascular issues. Always consult a medical professional before trying something new.

12. Check Your Thyroid

Hormones and weight loss are closely connected, and an impaired thyroid can be an obstacle to achieving your weight goals. Thyroid hormones are responsible for oxygen consumption, respiration rate, and thermoregulation. Insufficient thyroid production (hypothyroidism) impacts these three metabolic processes, affecting overall health.

To restore thyroid health, consult your doctor, who will perform lab tests, prescribe thyroid medication if necessary, and recommend lifestyle modifications.


Note:  Check out these 19 practical weight loss tips to achieve your goal faster.


Conclusion

Slimming down can be a challenge with a sluggish metabolism and poor habits. Luckily, there are ways to speed up your metabolic rate and achieve your desired weight.

For professional advice, consult our weight loss experts at Vibrant Vitality Clinic.

Does Biotin Cause Weight Gain?

Biotin, or vitamin B7, is an essential nutrient involved in energy metabolism. It is highly regarded in the cosmetics industry for its role in promoting hair, nail, and skin health. It is also one of the common ingredients in metabolism-boosting supplements, possibly aiding in weight loss.

However, some evidence suggests it may negatively affect weight control. This article explores whether biotin causes weight gain and how to take the vitamin to maximize its benefits.

Does biotin cause weight gain?

Does Biotin Cause Weight Gain?

Some people taking B vitamin supplements report gaining weight, and one study found excess vitamin B7 could increase fat accumulation, trigger insulin resistance, and disrupt neurotransmitter metabolism, causing obesity.

However, research also found suboptimal biotin levels in overweight and obese patients. This led to speculation that vitamin B7 supplementation may improve energy metabolism and blood sugar levels, potentially contributing to a healthy weight.

Most studies have found no definite link between biotin and weight management.

How Are Biotin and Weight Related?

There is no evidence vitamin B7 causes either weight loss or weight gain. However, B complex vitamins are among the most widely researched nutrients and have been proven to improve metabolism and burn calories more efficiently.

Biotin helps certain enzymes break down sugar, carbohydrates, and proteins into usable cell energy. It also helps maintain optimal blood glucose levels by supporting glucose synthesis from non-carbohydrate sources.

Insufficient or excess vitamin B7 may disrupt metabolic processes, triggering weight loss or weight gain. Some ways a biotin imbalance may affect weight include:


Note: Read our list of the best appetite suppressants to manage cravings.


How to Take Biotin for Optimal Weight

The recommendation for biotin intake to avoid deficiency is about 30 micrograms daily. Biotin sufficiency is among various nutritional and hormonal factors contributing to optimal weight.

Our bodies don’t produce vitamin B7. We ingest it through food, dietary supplements, and IV therapy.

Biotin-Rich Foods

Most healthy adults get the required daily biotin amounts from food.

Foods with the highest vitamin B7 concentrations include:

These foods contain various essential nutrients, not just biotin, aiding in the proper functioning of multiple bodily processes.

Supplements

Health professionals generally agree a balanced diet is the best source of nutrients for optimal health. However, many factors can prevent us from meeting our required daily nutrient amounts, including busy work schedules, genetic disorders, and alcohol abuse. Vitamin supplements are an effective way of ensuring adequate vitamin intake. People can use single-nutrient vitamin B7, B complex, or multivitamin supplements.

It’s important to consult a medical practitioner before starting any new supplement regime because they can interact with other supplements and medications. Also, supplements may cause more harm than good to people who are not vitamin deficient.

IV Therapy

The quickest way to restore depleted vitamin levels is with IV therapy. A lack of vitamin B7 is usually accompanied by other B vitamin deficiencies, and vitamin B IV therapy may be the most effective solution. It involves the intravenous delivery of B complex vitamins, enabling quick and high vitamin absorption.  


Note: Vitamin B12 injections have also shown promise in promoting weight loss. Learn how they work and what other health benefits they provide.


Is it Good to Take Biotin Every Day?

People with a known vitamin B7 deficiency, slow metabolism, thinning hair, or skin problems may benefit from daily biotin supplementation. Excess vitamin B7 isn’t associated with serious side effects, though it may show false positives for health problems such as thyroid, heart, and Graves’ diseases. It can also lead to digestive problems.

Consult your doctor before taking biotin supplements to ensure their beneficial effect.

Conclusion

Biotin’s primary role is to assist with energy metabolism, which is crucial for the proper functioning of our system. Though there is no direct link between biotin and weight, vitamin deficiency may lead to problems with weight management.

If you suspect your weight gain is related to insufficient vitamin B7 levels, talk to your healthcare provider to determine if biotin supplements or IV therapy may help.

Sleep and Testosterone: How Are They Related?

Testosterone is best known as the male sex hormone, but its function goes beyond regulating male sexual characteristics. It affects men’s and women’s muscle and bone health, fat distribution, heart health, mood, and even sleep.

This article gives an overview of what science knows about the link between sleep and testosterone and how to improve both.  

Sleep and testosterone

Does Sleep Affect Testosterone Levels?

Healthy testosterone production follows the normal circadian rhythm. The hormone is the highest in the morning, dips in the evening, and begins to increase with the onset of sleep. Disturbed sleep is associated with reduced morning testosterone.

Low Testosterone and Sleep

Research shows insufficient sleep and medical conditions like sleep apnea can deplete testosterone levels. Delayed or fragmented sleep disrupts the circadian rhythm, inhibiting the natural increase in testosterone that comes with sleep.

Low testosterone perpetuates sleep problems and can lead to insomnia. It can also cause hot flashes and night sweating in women, preventing sleep.


Note: Learn more about the connection between hormones and insomnia, or find out whether low testosterone can also cause fatigue and low sex drive in men.


High Testosterone and Sleep

High testosterone doesn’t typically affect sleep. Sleep issues are a more common symptom of low testosterone. However, some patients report sleep abnormalities and worsening sleep apnea after taking high doses of testosterone therapy.

How to Improve Sleep Quality & Maintain Normal Testosterone Levels

There are several ways to enhance testosterone production and improve sleep quality.


Note: For more information, refer to our guide to using Relora for sleep.


Sleep and Testosterone FAQ

Men with sleep problems and symptoms of low testosterone often have the following questions about testosterone and sleep regulation.

Does Sleep Boost Testosterone?

Healthy sleep patterns, which include 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep at night, support normal testosterone production. Quality sleep doesn’t increase testosterone over its normal levels; it only contributes to maintaining a hormonal balance to ensure the optimal functioning of testosterone-regulated processes.

Does Napping Increase Testosterone?

Scientists recommend avoiding napping, especially later in the day and close to bedtime, because it can interfere with falling and staying asleep. People who need rest during the day should do it earlier and limit their nap to 30 minutes.

How Does Hormone Replacement Therapy Affect Sleep?

Evidence suggests testosterone therapy makes it easier to fall asleep and may improve sleep quality. The therapy involves administering testosterone in the form of creams, skin patches, pellets, and injections. Doctors prescribe it as an FDA-approved therapy for men diagnosed with low testosterone.


Note: Learn more about testosterone therapy benefits.


Conclusion

Sleep and testosterone are closely related and affect one another. Small changes in your bedtime rituals can positively impact your sleep quality and improve testosterone levels. If the problems persist, discuss treatment options with your healthcare provider.

If you are in the Phoenix area, contact our experienced medical professionals to determine if testosterone therapy can help you.

Is Thiamine Good for Weight Loss?

Thiamine, or vitamin B1, is a vital nutrient that supports glucose metabolism and helps cells use stored energy. It is essential for maintaining a healthy heart, central nervous system, and immune function.

This article explores the vitamin’s potential in assisting weight loss and explains what happens when we don’t have enough of this vitamin. 

Thiamine for weight loss

How Does Thiamine Affect Weight?

Scientists haven’t discovered a direct link between thiamine and weight. However, as the vitamin’s primary role is to support energy metabolism, inadequate vitamin levels can disrupt metabolic processes, hormones, and other mechanisms that regulate weight.


Note: Learn how other B vitamins and weight loss are related.


Can Lack of Thiamine Cause Weight Loss?

There is inconclusive evidence about the effects of vitamin B1 deficiency on weight loss. In one human study, researchers induced thiamine deficiency to examine the resulting symptoms and health disorders. Weight loss was one of these symptoms.

Other symptoms of vitamin B1 deficiency included fatigue, sleep disorders, cognitive decline, and abdominal problems. These results suggest a more severe thiamine deficiency can lead to serious health disorders, including heart, nerve, and muscle abnormalities.

In another study, researchers observed a thiamine deficiency in obese and type 2 diabetic patients who had recently lost weight or reduced their food intake. These results suggest weight loss increases the risk of B1 deficiency, and not the other way around.

A study on sheep demonstrated no significant effect of thiamine intake on weight, but it potentially enhanced fat breakdown.

Does Thiamine Boost Your Metabolism?

Thiamine plays a crucial role in glucose, lipid, and amino acid metabolism. Optimal vitamin B1 levels enable a smooth conversion of food into energy that cells use to perform their functions. Low thiamine levels can hinder these processes, slowing down metabolism.

Causes of Thiamine Deficiency

Clinical thiamine deficiency is rare in developed countries because many foods are fortified with B vitamins. However, it may occur due to the following reasons:


Note: Many athletes embrace the numerous benefits of IV therapy for athletic performance. Find out how it works!


Symptoms of B1 Deficiency

Early symptoms of vitamin B1 deficiency include the following:

Untreated thiamine deficiency may lead to more severe symptoms, such as the following:

How to Treat Thiamine Deficiency

Thiamine deficiency symptoms can be reversed with vitamin supplements, IV therapy, or both. Doctors usually recommend multivitamins with a B complex because other B vitamin deficiencies usually accompany a lack of vitamin B1.

Patients with more severe symptoms can benefit from a faster treatment – a vitamin B injection or vitamin B IV therapy. IV therapy involves the intravenous delivery of B vitamins for quick nutrient recovery.

A balanced diet is an essential cofactor in the treatment of thiamine deficiency. Patients should avoid processed foods, simple sugars, and alcohol and eat thiamine-rich foods, including the following:

Conclusion

Thiamine is vital for energy metabolism. Adequate vitamin B1 levels contribute to our overall well-being and may improve the body’s ability to regulate weight.

All nutrient deficiencies impede health, potentially leading to weight gain, hormonal imbalances, insulin resistance, and other health problems. The best way to ensure the smooth functioning of our body is to enjoy a nutrient-rich diet, engage in regular, moderate physical activity, and take vitamin supplements if needed.

Does Testosterone Give You Energy

Testosterone is a sex hormone that regulates many essential bodily functions, including reproduction, red blood cell synthesis, muscle growth, and mental health. The hormone is dominant in men but is also present in women in smaller amounts.

Testosterone naturally declines with age, often causing unpleasant symptoms associated with a dip in energy levels.

This article explores whether testosterone gives us energy and what to do to increase the hormone and energy levels. 

Does testosterone give you more energy?

Does Testosterone Affect Energy?

Scientific research has yet to find definite answers to the question how testosterone affects energy. Researchers suspect the hormone’s direct impact on energy comes from its essential role in red blood cell production. Red blood cells supply the whole body with oxygen, the vital component in creating the energy needed to sustain all bodily processes. Declining testosterone may decrease red blood cells and the amount of oxygen delivered to tissues, decreasing energy.

Other ways testosterone may affect energy include:


Note: Find out what hormonal insomnia is and how low testosterone can cause fatigue.


How to Increase Testosterone Levels and Energy

Testosterone therapy (TRT) is a quick and medically approved way to increase testosterone levels and energy in men with diagnosed low testosterone. TRT for women is used as an off-label treatment to alleviate the symptoms of menopause.

Doctors prescribe testosterone in the form of a gel, pill, tablet, pellet, injection, or skin patch.

The first sign that the treatment is effective is usually an improvement in energy levels and motivation. Other improvements in symptoms often follow, including increased sex drive, reduced anxiety and nervousness, stronger bones and muscles, and improved cognitive function.


Note: Testosterone can cause low sex drive in men. See how testosterone therapy can help with this issue and what are other testosterone therapy benefits.


How Long Does It Take for Testosterone to Increase Energy?

Testosterone therapy is customized to each patient depending on their age, body composition, and health status, so the results vary. A rise in testosterone levels causes red blood cells to multiply fast, usually resulting in an energy boost. Some patients notice an increase in energy levels as soon as they start the treatment, and others after a few weeks.

More Ways to Boost Energy Levels

Testosterone therapy is not as effective if patients don’t introduce lifestyle modifications that naturally increase energy. They include:


Note: Learn what are the best supplements to balance hormones.


Conclusion

Testosterone is a vital hormone for our health. Studies and anecdotal evidence suggest it affects our energy levels via different mechanisms.

The medical team at Vibrant Vitality Clinic in Phoenix has extensive experience helping patients improve their well-being and restore energy levels with testosterone therapy. If you are chronically tired and suffer from other symptoms of low testosterone, contact us to discuss treatment options.

Caffeine for Weight Loss - How Effective Is It?

Caffeine is a natural substance found in cacao, coffee, tea, and guarana. It is the primary ingredient in one of the world’s most popular beverages – coffee. Many people swear by its beneficial effect on their mood, mental acuity, and weight management, and the substance appears in weight loss and metabolism-boosting supplements.

This article explores whether caffeine can help people lose weight and recommends consumption methods for the best results.

Caffeine for weight loss

Does Caffeine Affect Weight?

Caffeine is a stimulant that affects the central nervous system and increases mental alertness. Enhanced energy levels may motivate consumers to exercise more and control their appetite. However, research provides conflicting evidence regarding caffeine’s influence on weight. Some studies suggest it can promote weight loss, while others show it stimulates weight gain.

Here are some of the ways caffeine affects weight loss:

Caffeine and Fat Loss/Gain

Caffeine stimulates the release of dopamine and noradrenaline, increasing energy levels, motivation, and exercise performance. It also increases the release of adrenaline, the hormone responsible for fat breakdown.

However, some studies show caffeine can increase cortisol and disrupt the sleep hormones melatonin and adenosine. This potentially leads to weight gain due to stress and lack of sleep.


Note: Find out more about sleep hormones and how to treat hormonal insomnia.


Caffeine and Metabolism

Research shows caffeine moderately increases the metabolic rate – the rate at which our bodies process food into energy for essential bodily functions. That’s why caffeine is often used in supplements designed to speed up metabolism and help manage weight.   


Note: Discover the best weight loss products that help control cravings, stimulate physical activity, and reduce body mass.


Caffeine and Appetite

Caffeine affects the sympathetic nervous system, helping to suppress appetite, increase satiety, and accelerate fat breakdown. However, more studies are needed to confirm these results.


Note: Find out what are the best appetite suppressants to manage food cravings.


How to Consume Caffeine for Weight Loss

Coffee works for many people as a weight loss aid. However, it can only help if consumed without sugar, milk, cream, and other ingredients that add calories. A cup of plain black coffee contains only a few calories, and drinking it helps enhance energy and reduce appetite. Consumers can use fat-free milk, plant-based milk, stevia, and other alternatives to the usual additions to make the beverage tastier without increasing the calorie count.

Other products that contain caffeine and may help stimulate weight loss include black and green tea and dark chocolate.

Supplements containing caffeine are among the most effective “fat burners.” They usually contain 200 mg of caffeine, equaling approximately two cups of coffee, and include other stimulants that work synergistically with caffeine to help consumers shed extra pounds.

Risks of Using Caffeine for Weight Loss

According to the FDA, most consumers can safely drink four cups of brewed coffee daily, which means approximately 400 g of caffeine.

Caffeine can cause health problems in some consumers who have caffeine sensitivity.  The risks include:

Sleep problems – Caffeine may block the effects of sleep-promoting hormones. Consumers are advised to avoid caffeine consumption later in the day.   

Increased nervousness – Consumers who drink more than four cups of coffee to enhance weight loss may experience increased heartbeat, restlessness, and anxiety symptoms.

Digestive issues – Taking caffeine in high doses can lead to nausea, vomiting, and an upset stomach.

Withdrawal symptoms – Regular consumers who suddenly stop consuming caffeine may suffer from withdrawal symptoms, including headaches, fatigue, irritability, and depression. They usually last up to one week.

An overconsumption can lead to caffeine tolerance, reducing its stimulant effects. If you decide to take a caffeine supplement, make sure to keep count of the amount of caffeine you are consuming from other sources, such as coffee, tea, and caffeinated soft drinks. Be particularly careful of energy drinks, some of which contain as much as 350 mg of caffeine per can.

Conclusion

Caffeine shows promise as an effective solution for weight loss. Existing studies recognize its potential in improving metabolism and regulating appetite, but data only demonstrates modest weight reduction. Consumers need to combine caffeine use with proven weight loss tips, such as a balanced diet and regular physical activity, to achieve results.

Metabolism Booster Supplements: Things You Need to Know

People often blame a “slow metabolism” for their weight gain or inability to shed excess pounds without really knowing what metabolism is. Believing claims about the effectiveness of metabolism-boosting supplements, they welcome the opportunity to address health concerns impeding their weight-loss efforts.

The popularity of metabolism boosters is steadily increasing. But are they as effective as the manufacturers say?

This article explains how metabolism works, whether metabolism booster supplements can enhance its function, and what ingredients do, in fact, show the greatest potential.

Metabolism booster supplements

How Does Our Metabolism Work?

Metabolism is a complex process in which the body breaks down the food we eat into smaller molecules (carbohydrates, proteins, and fats) which our cells then use as energy. A unit of this energy is called a calorie, and this energy is used by the cells to perform their functions. The faster our bodies transform food into energy and deliver it to cells, the faster we “burn calories.”

The time required for this process is called the metabolic rate. A basal metabolic rate (BMR) is the number of calories our cells need daily for essential bodily functions when we are at rest. In other words, we burn calories even when we are not moving.

BMR is unique to each person depending on their age, genetics, gender, body composition, and lifestyle habits. We can’t change our genes or slow down aging, but we can somewhat affect our BMR through healthier lifestyle choices, such as a balanced diet, exercise, and metabolism-boosting supplements.  

What Are Metabolism Booster Supplements?

Metabolism booster supplements are dietary supplements designed to speed up the metabolic rate and promote weight loss. They are often referred to as fat burners. They are usually in the form of pills, tablets, or powders added to food. Some booster supplements contain a blend of vitamins, minerals, and medicinal plants, and others contain only one ingredient.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t regulate dietary supplements as closely as pharmaceutical products. The agency only monitors whether the claims on supplement labels are evidence-based and may test the product for safety, but not before it has been released for sale. Since supplements that say they burn fat and speed up metabolism don’t require FDA approval and contain ingredients that may interact with other medications, it is essential to consult a medical professional before starting a metabolism booster regimen.

Do Metabolism-Boosting Supplements Work?

Metabolism-boosting supplements contain ingredients that have been studied for their potential to reduce appetite, increase satiety, block the absorption of fat, or increase thermogenesis.

Thermogenesis is the process of stimulating metabolic rate through increased production of heat in the body, resulting in increased calorie burn. So far, evidence shows fat burners may slightly enhance the metabolism and contribute to weight loss, but researchers emphasize the need for more research.


Note: Learn more about medical weight loss and why it is the safest weight-loss strategy.


Who Can Take Metabolism Booster Supplements?

Metabolism boosters are over-the-counter (OTC) dietary supplements, so anyone can purchase them. Doctors usually recommend them to overweight patients who need help adhering to the basic weight-loss principles – reduced calorie intake and increased physical activity. They don’t advise taking metabolism boosters without consulting a medical provider due to potential side effects.

Metabolism Booster Benefits

Benefits of metabolism booster supplements

Metabolism boosters claim to stimulate the metabolism and provide various health benefits, including:


Note: Find out what are appetite suppressants and what are the benefits of using them.


Metabolism Booster Supplements: Risks & Side Effects

Fat burners contain ingredients that have yet to be comprehensively researched. Studies show they may cause adverse effects, such as:

Also, metabolism boosters may react with other medications, reducing their effectiveness or leading to other health concerns.

Below, you’ll find more information on the ingredients that are commonly included in metabolism boosters and their potential side effects.


Note: Insomnia can be caused by hormones. Learn what are the most common symptoms and how to treat hormonal insomnia.


12 Natural Metabolism Booster Supplements

The FDA forbids the use of pharmaceutical ingredients in supplements. The best metabolism booster supplements contain natural substances that have been recognized for their capacity to regulate metabolism and stimulate weight loss. However, it is difficult to evaluate their effectiveness because there are few studies on single ingredients, and in combination with other substances, they often work differently.

The following ingredients are usually found in metabolism-boosting supplements.

1. Caffeine

Caffeine is found in herbs such as green and black teas, guarana, kola nut, and yerba mate. Short-term clinical trials show it stimulates the sympathetic nervous system, increasing thermogenesis and fat breakdown. Data suggests it moderately increases the metabolic rate but is more effective when combined with other stimulants. Long-term use may cause caffeine tolerance, diminishing its effects.

Caffeine is generally safe at doses of up to 500 mg daily. However, some patients experience restlessness and sleep issues. It can also cause digestive issues, rapid heartbeat, and seizures at higher doses.

2. Green tea

Green tea as a metabolism booster supplement

Green tea often appears in metabolism-boosting weight-loss products because it naturally contains a combination of caffeine and catechins. These two substances together are shown to aid in weight loss by increasing energy expenditure and decreasing fat absorption more effectively than when they are taken in isolation.

Green tea doesn’t cause any adverse effects, while green tea extracts may cause stomach pain, nausea, constipation, and increased blood pressure.

3. Capsaicin

Capsaicin is found in spicy foods like chili peppers. Studies suggest it increases BMR, promotes satiety, reduces appetite, and improves insulin sensitivity. However, these metabolic improvements haven’t significantly affected weight in patients participating in short-duration studies (12 weeks), so more research is needed to determine its weight loss potential.

Capsaicin appears safe when taken at doses of up to 4 mg for 12 weeks. It can sometimes cause stomach pain, nausea, and bloating.

4. L-carnitine

L-carnitine is a chemical made of the amino acids lysine and methionine. It helps convert fat to cell energy, reduce fat accumulation, and improve muscle mass. Studies show that doses of up to 2000 mg daily for one year are safe and may reduce body weight. Patients sometimes experience abdominal problems, vomiting, diarrhea, and unpleasant body odor.

L-carnitine is naturally found in meat, dairy, and some plants, but patients who want to regulate their metabolism and induce weight loss require higher concentrations. That is why L-carnitine is more effective in specially formulated weight-loss products, such as Vibrant Skinny Spray – a natural blend of vitamins, amino acids, and other fat-burning ingredients.  


Note: Find out how to take amino acids for weight loss and obtain the desired results.


5. Chromium

Chromium is another essential nutrient for energy metabolism. Poor chromium absorption and inadequate diet result in a high chromium deficiency rate in the U.S. A deficit of this essential element possibly leads to insulin resistance and fat accumulation. Some doctors prescribe chromium supplementation to overweight patients to help regulate metabolic processes, glucose levels, insulin sensitivity, and weight gain.


Note: Learn more about the role of chromium in weight management.


6. Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA)

Limited studies show CLA supplementation may help increase metabolic rate by increasing fat breakdown and destroying fat cells in adipose tissue, with results varying between individuals. The results of studies on CLA have been mixed, so the scientific consensus is that CLA contributes modestly to fat composition and body weight.

CLA is generally well tolerated in doses of up to 6 g daily for one year. Some patients report abdominal pain, constipation, and diarrhea.

7. Resveratrol

Resveratrol is a naturally occurring compound in plants, belonging to the group of polyphenols. Its concentration in plants is small, so people use supplements to enhance resveratrol’s antioxidant effects and potentially reduce weight. Limited studies suggest it helps increase muscle mass and reduce fat and body weight.


Note: Learn more about how resveratrol aids in weight loss.


8. Ginger

Ginger is a well-known culinary ingredient that adds zest to foods. Research has found that the root enhances the thermic effects of food, accelerates fat burning, and decreases appetite. Ginger may help improve metabolic conditions and manage weight, but more studies are needed to confirm these effects.

Ginger capsules in doses of up to 3 g daily for three months are generally safe, with mild adverse effects reported. Unwelcome side effects of ginger consumption include vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and heartburn.

9. B Complex

B complex is one of metabolism booster supplements

B vitamins play an important role in energy metabolism, helping to break down food, converting stored fat into energy, and regulating blood sugar and cholesterol levels. B vitamin deficiencies disrupt metabolic processes, leading to various health conditions.

Our bodies don’t produce B complex vitamins, so we need to ingest them through food and supplements to ensure optimal levels. Patients can also receive vitamin B IV therapy – the quickest and most effective way to restore depleted nutrients.


Note: Vitamin B12 injections are gaining popularity as an effective aid in weight management. Evidence shows they improve metabolic processes, providing more energy for exercise and supporting the mechanisms that promote weight loss.


10. Soluble Fiber

Many fat-burning supplements contain soluble fiber, helping patients increase satiety and control their appetite. The most common fiber supplements include beta-glucans, guar gum, and glucomannan.

Glucomannan is especially popular due to its ability to absorb large amounts of water (up to 50 times its weight), preventing unnecessary food intake. Patients tolerate it well, with only minor reported side effects, such as bloating, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal discomfort. Glucomannan tablets are linked to a higher likelihood of adverse effects; powder and capsules seem safer.


Note: Read about the best appetite-suppressing supplements and how they manage cravings.


11. Raspberry Ketones

Raspberry ketones are compounds found in red raspberries that are claimed to inhibit fat accumulation and reduce appetite. Existing research is either on mice or only based on supplements containing various other ingredients, so the effectiveness and safety of raspberry ketones in humans aren’t yet scientifically corroborated. However, the compound is marketed and widely used for weight management.

12. Choline

Choline is an essential amino acid that plays a role in lipid metabolism and liver function. Adult men and women don’t consume sufficient amounts, resulting in a disbalance in their gut microbiota. Choline supplementation can help improve metabolic processes, lower body fat, and increase lean muscle. It is often used in weight-loss products in combination with the amino acids inositol and methionine (together known as MIC).


Note: L-carnitine, B vitamins, and choline are some of the most widely researched and beneficial metabolism boosters. They are common ingredients in IV therapy, stimulating fat breakdown, increasing energy expenditure, and promoting weight loss. Learn how IV therapy for weight loss works to determine if it can help you.


Conclusion

Metabolism boosters have become popular aids in weight management. They consist of natural ingredients that have been recognized for their potential to accelerate fat burning and lower appetite. Most studies indicate that a balanced diet and regular exercise are prerequisites for a healthy metabolism, and supplements can help restore its balance.

Contact our experienced, friendly medical team at Vibrant Vitality Clinic to help you introduce an adequate metabolism-boosting product into your supplement regimen.

If you're looking to lose weight and metabolism boosters don't work for you right now, discover alternative ways to increase metabolism for weight loss.

*Disclaimer
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.