IT'S TIME TO LOSE WEIGHT
By Herbalist Scott Bias, Founder and Formulator, Paradise Herbs, Inc.

With the coming of summer comes the desire for many of us to get in shape. For some that involves taking up an exercise class, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, or pushing back from the table before that second helping. Let's face it - the majority of us can stand to lose a few pounds.

Dietary supplements have long been a quick-fix solution to losing weight, but with the recent banning of products like Fen-Phen and Ephedra, it's important to become more educated on what's out there that's safe and effective. Below is some information that might be beneficial.

TONALIN
Conjugated linoleic acid is an essential fatty acid derived from pure safflower oil. Tonalin brand CLA has been clinically shown to reduce body fat and increase lean muscle tissue. By breaking down lipoprotein lipase, an enzyme that enables fat cells in the body, CLA helps reduce the amount of fat that is deposited and stored.

GREEN TEA
It is a proven fact that green tea helps to burn fat, maintain healthy metabolism and promote weight loss. In addition, green tea increases energy and potential oxygen intake.

ASTRAGALUS AND JIAOGULAN
These powerful, stimulant-free herbs increase metabolism and burn fat. Both are traditionally known for their ability to balance blood sugar levels, strengthen the body and reduce fatigue.

RHODIOLA ROSEA
Once used by the Vikings to enhance endurance, Rhodiola boosts synthesis of ATP, the body's source of energy. It has also been known to help oxygen uptake to the body, enhance metabolic activity and increase cellular integrity.

BANABA, FENUGREEK & GYMNEMA
These three herbs are well known for their ability to help normalize blood sugar. Imbalances in blood sugar can affect appetite, mood and food cravings. Banaba, for example, acts like insulin in the body which enables amino acids to be more efficiently absorbed into cells. Studies have shown this can help build lean muscle and promote weight loss, even without dietary changes.

Scott Bias is an herbalist, nutritional counselor and president of Paradise Herbs. For more information on these and other products, visit www.paradiseherbs.com