Natural Weight Loss Remedies: Cascara
Von auspiciouscreas63, 17:17Often used as part of a detox diet due to its laxative properties, cascara is also added to many popular natural weight loss supplements.
Also known as California buckthorn, chittem bark, sacred bark, bitter bark or Rhamnus purshiana, cascara sagrada is found in many over-the-counter natural herbal products. This natural weight loss remedy is derived from the bark of the cascara tree, which is native to California. The bark is dried for about a year before being added to a wide range of weight loss products, detox diets and weight loss programs.
Cascara should not be taken for longer than eight to ten days in a row, as it has strong stimulant laxative properties. It should be used very carefully as it also has some potential for leeching potassium and sodium out of the body. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid using cascara. Always read the labels before buying any natural remedy as herbs are not immune to having side effects, particularly in pregnancy.
Cascara for a Detox Diet
Traditionally cascara is used as a laxative to promote bowel moments as part of a detox diet rather than specifically for weight loss. It is often found in detox formulas and colon cleansers along with senna, psyllum husk and aloe vera. Using these products regularly, particularly combining different laxatives together, can promote electrolyte imbalances which may affect the heart and cause long term bowel problems. Use cautiously and sparingly.
Psyllium Husk as a Laxative
Psyllium husk is best known for its effectiveness for constipation problems, not weight loss. The seed and husk are water soluble and when taken orally form a viscous gel in the intestine. Research has shown psyllium can reduce cholesterol levels, blood pressure and glucose in those with type 2 diabetes, however its effectiveness for weight control is unproven.
Allergic Reactions to Psyllium
Supplementing with psyllium can be quite hard on the body and large doses can cause gastrointestinal side effects such as flatulence, abdominal pain and diarrhea. Starting with small doses and gradually working up to a maximum of 20g a day can help. It is also important to drink plenty of water if supplementing with psyllium. Some people can have allergic reactions to psyllium and it can inhibit iron absorption. Iron supplements should be taken at least one hour before.
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Products that contain cascara, psyllium husks and senna which are all laxatives and valerian for insomnia along with appetite suppressants plus a whole list of other ingredients, should be used with great care. If in doubt, consult a doctor. There really is no substitute for a healthy balanced diet and exercise.
References:
Nadir A, Reddy D, Van Thiel DH. Cascara-sagrada induced intrahepatic cholestasis causing portal hypertension: case report and review of herbal hepatotoxicity. Am J Gastroenterol 2000;95:3634-7.
Cascara sagrada, aloe laxatives, O-9 contraceptives are category II-FDA. The Tan Sheet May 13, 2002.
Anderson JW, Allgood LD, Turner J, et al. Effects of psyllium on glucose and serum lipid responses in men with type 2 diabetes and hypercholesterolemia. Am J Clin Nutr 1999;70(4):466-473.
Davidson MH, Dugan LD, Burns JH, et al. A psyllium-enriched cereal for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia in children: a controlled, double-blind, crossover study. Am J Clin Nutr 1996;63(1):96-102.
http://suite101.com/natural-weight-loss-remedies-cascara-a258330
Also known as California buckthorn, chittem bark, sacred bark, bitter bark or Rhamnus purshiana, cascara sagrada is found in many over-the-counter natural herbal products. This natural weight loss remedy is derived from the bark of the cascara tree, which is native to California. The bark is dried for about a year before being added to a wide range of weight loss products, detox diets and weight loss programs.
Cascara should not be taken for longer than eight to ten days in a row, as it has strong stimulant laxative properties. It should be used very carefully as it also has some potential for leeching potassium and sodium out of the body. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid using cascara. Always read the labels before buying any natural remedy as herbs are not immune to having side effects, particularly in pregnancy.
Cascara for a Detox Diet
Traditionally cascara is used as a laxative to promote bowel moments as part of a detox diet rather than specifically for weight loss. It is often found in detox formulas and colon cleansers along with senna, psyllum husk and aloe vera. Using these products regularly, particularly combining different laxatives together, can promote electrolyte imbalances which may affect the heart and cause long term bowel problems. Use cautiously and sparingly.
Psyllium Husk as a Laxative
Psyllium husk is best known for its effectiveness for constipation problems, not weight loss. The seed and husk are water soluble and when taken orally form a viscous gel in the intestine. Research has shown psyllium can reduce cholesterol levels, blood pressure and glucose in those with type 2 diabetes, however its effectiveness for weight control is unproven.
Allergic Reactions to Psyllium
Supplementing with psyllium can be quite hard on the body and large doses can cause gastrointestinal side effects such as flatulence, abdominal pain and diarrhea. Starting with small doses and gradually working up to a maximum of 20g a day can help. It is also important to drink plenty of water if supplementing with psyllium. Some people can have allergic reactions to psyllium and it can inhibit iron absorption. Iron supplements should be taken at least one hour before.
Products that contain cascara, psyllium husks and senna which are all laxatives and valerian for insomnia along with appetite suppressants plus a whole list of other ingredients, should be used with great care. If in doubt, consult a doctor. There really is no substitute for a healthy balanced diet and exercise.
References:
Nadir A, Reddy D, Van Thiel DH. Cascara-sagrada induced intrahepatic cholestasis causing portal hypertension: case report and review of herbal hepatotoxicity. Am J Gastroenterol 2000;95:3634-7.
Cascara sagrada, aloe laxatives, O-9 contraceptives are category II-FDA. The Tan Sheet May 13, 2002.
Anderson JW, Allgood LD, Turner J, et al. Effects of psyllium on glucose and serum lipid responses in men with type 2 diabetes and hypercholesterolemia. Am J Clin Nutr 1999;70(4):466-473.
Davidson MH, Dugan LD, Burns JH, et al. A psyllium-enriched cereal for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia in children: a controlled, double-blind, crossover study. Am J Clin Nutr 1996;63(1):96-102.
http://suite101.com/natural-weight-loss-remedies-cascara-a258330
