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Advice From Our Expert Kiran Basra B.Sc. Phm., Doctor of Pharmacy Kiran Basra is a registered pharmacist, a graduate of the University of Toronto and has obtained her doctorate in pharmacy. Kiran has served as a lecturer to students of pharmacy and pharmaceutical technology; she has also spoken on variety of topics at women’s shows and to healthcare professionals and corporations.

Taking that important step towards losing weight can be difficult. At Herbal Magic we make it our priority to ensure you have all the information you need to begin your weight loss journey. The more you know, the easier it will be to make that life changing decision. If you have any questions please feel free to send them to our expert! Dr. Kiran Basra will respond to your questions personally - and privately.

The Skinny on Weight Gain

and some Helpful Tips to get back to your Ideal Weight

With summer around the corner, you may be like many Canadians looking to lose weight and get healthy! Knowing that over half of the Canadian population is either overweight or obese, it is fair to say that many of us have wondered how we got here and what we can do to get the unwanted extra weight off. Keep reading to discover what may cause weight gain and what you can do about it.

Facts:
In the majority of people, weight gain results from consuming more calories than are being used by the body. Sedentary lifestyles combined with the availability of quick, calorie dense processed foods add up to a lot of extra calories that are not being burned by normal activity. The excess calories are stored as fat resulting in weight gain.

Some other potential causes of becoming overweight include certain medical conditions such as hypothyroidism, prescription medications such as some anti-depressants, and water retention to name a few.

What has become of great concern is the rise in obesity rates in children. Causes of this can be similar to the ones listed above. It is common knowledge that children learn what they live and will mimic the behaviours of their parents or caregivers. A child who's parents have a sedentary lifestyle and poor nutrition may be more likely to become overweight or obese.

Helpful Tips

Hold the Seconds
Healthy portion control will decrease the intake of calories resulting in a decrease in weight gain or weight loss. Increasing nutrient dense fibre rich foods such as fruits and vegetables will make you feel full longer, as well as provide necessary nutrients to support a healthy metabolism. Before taking a second helping, wait a few minutes - you may find that you are actually full!

Develop Positive Eating Habits
Allowing enough time to eat will ensure food is properly digested, enjoyed, and appreciated. Research has shown that keeping a food journal and having support will improve one's ability to lose weight.

Keep Moving
Encouraging exercise such as walking will help children and adults lead a healthier lifestyle. Tracking activity levels with tools such as pedometers will reinforce and encourage walking.

Support with Supplements
There is growing evidence to suggest that natural health products such as Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA), Green Tea, and Kidney Bean extract will help support healthy weight loss. As many individuals are on some form of medications, it is important to get screened for any potential drug-herb-nutrient interactions before starting any new natural supplement regimen.