Obesity is one of the leading causes of death and a prominent chronic health condition affecting society. With so many people struggling with their weight and searching for a quick fix to lose body fat, it begs the question, what are the healthy and natural options? Ginseng has shown to make a difference when it comes to weight loss, so keep reading as we discuss ginseng and obesity.
Let’s define obesity
Obesity is described as a condition of excess body weight with an accumulation of high body fat (World Health Organisation, 2021). The latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics showed that from 2017-2018 67% of Australian adults were considered overweight or obese, which is a steady rise from 63% in 2014-2015 (Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2018). Worldwide, data shows even more prevalence of obesity, and more concerningly its association with an increased risk of mortality as highlighted in several studies (Abdelaal et al., 2017).
What’s ginseng
Ginseng is a superfood derived from perennial plants belonging to the genus Panax. Most commonly, the root is dried and then made into a powder or extract form for consumption. For more information on ginseng and some of its amazing benefits check out our previous blog, same, same but ginseng.
How does it help?
There has been varying research and studies conducted on ginseng’s effects to do with fat distribution and obesity. A review of previous animal and human studies showed ginsenosides (the active component of ginseng) increasing energy expenditure and reducing energy intake. It was also revealed that ginseng showed a two-way adjustment effect on adipogenesis (development and accumulation of fat tissue) in high fat diet-induced obese and diabetic individuals (Li & Ji, 2018). Another study conducted on Korean women found that ginseng exerted effects on weight loss and the gut microbiota in all participants. They found that their previous gut bacteria composition before taking ginseng had a direct impact on the individual’s antiobesity effects (Song et al., 2014). All of this data above suggests that ginseng may be able to exert an antiobesity effect in humans, making it a great potential aid in weight loss.
Take a load off
Speaking both literally and metaphorically, adding ginseng into your day can help you take a load off your body weight wise, but also mentally. Feeling good about the health choices you are making for your body plays a big role in the effectiveness of what you’re doing. Taking time to sit down with a cup of ginseng is also a great habit to give yourself a much needed time out.
References
Abdelaal, M., le Roux, C. W., & Docherty, N. G. (2017). Morbidity and mortality associated with obesity. Annals of translational medicine, 5(7), 161. https://doi.org/10.21037/atm.2017.03.107
Australian Bureau of Statistics, (2018). Overweight and Obesity. Accessed on 27/07/2023, <https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/health/health-conditions-and-risks/overweight-and-obesity/latest-release>
Li, Z., & Ji, G. E. (2018). Ginseng and obesity. Journal of ginseng research, 42(1), 1–8. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jgr.2016.12.005
Song, M. Y., Kim, B. S., & Kim, H. (2014). Influence of Panax ginseng on obesity and gut microbiota in obese middle-aged Korean women. Journal of ginseng research, 38(2), 106–115. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jgr.2013.12.004
World Health Organisation, (2021). Obesity and Overweight. Accessed on 27/07/2023, <https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/obesity-and-overweight>
