Discover bergamot extract's potential weight loss benefits, a natural supplement that may help boost metabolism and support a healthy diet and exercise routine.
What is Bergamot Extract
Bergamot extract is delivered from the peel of a citrus fruit called Citrus bergamia, a hybrid of lemon and orange. It is mostly found in the Mediterranean region and parts of Asia.
The extraction process involves pressing or squeezing the peel of the bergamot fruit to release its oil.
This oil has a distinct and fragrant aroma that is often used in perfumes, colognes, cosmetics, and aromatherapy products. It can also be used in cooking as an additive to various dishes, such as fish and vegetables.
In addition to its fragrance, bergamot also has many therapeutic benefits.
Antioxidants in Bergamot
Studies have found that it contains powerful antioxidants such as flavonoids and limonoids, which help fight free radical damage, protect cells from oxidative stress, reduce inflammation and boost immunity.
The potential weight loss benefits of bergamot extract come from its ability to boost metabolism. Studies have found that it can increase the body's lipid metabolism and help regulate excessive intake, which may lead to improved weight management. Bergamot extract is also believed to reduce the risk of coronary heart disease by decreasing cholesterol levels in the blood and decreasing waist circumference.
Bergamot Polyphenolic Fraction
Bergamot extract also contains essential oils such as linalool and geraniol that have antiseptic properties to help treat wounds or cuts. Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, it is commonly used for treating skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, acne and cold sores.
Vitamins C and E
Furthermore, bergamot extract can act as an immune booster by providing vital nutrients such as vitamins C and E, which help strengthen overall immunity against disease-causing microorganisms.
Overall, bergamot extract provides a host of health benefits while lending a delightful aroma to any product it is added.
Its versatile nature makes it popular among natural health enthusiasts worldwide who use it for various applications, including skin care treatments, mood-enhancing products like candles and home fragrances, culinary delights like tea blends and more.
How Bergamot Polyphenols Can Help With Weight Loss
Bergamot extract is one of the most popular herbal supplements used lose weight. It has been shown to have various beneficial effects on metabolism and energy levels, making it an effective tool to lose belly fat.
Bergapten
The active ingredient in bergamot extract is called Bergapten. Bergapten is a polyphenol found in citrus fruits like bergamot and has strong antioxidant properties. It also contains luteolin, which helps reduce inflammation, and pelargonium, which may help boost metabolism and increase fat burning.
Case Studies
Studies have found that supplementing with bergamot supplements can significantly improve body composition and weight loss. In one study involving 59 people over four weeks, those who took the bergamot supplement experienced significantly greater reductions in body fat than those taking a placebo.
In another study involving 192 people, those taking the supplement experienced an average reduction of 2 percent body fat over 12 weeks compared to just 0.4 percent for those taking a placebo.
In addition to its potential for reducing fat mass, bergamot supplements can also help support a healthy diet and exercise routine by aiding digestion and helping to regulate blood sugar levels. This helps control hunger cravings and increases energy levels so you can stick to your diet and exercise plan more easily.
Finally, bergamot juice can help boost metabolic rate by activating brown adipose tissue (BAT), which helps burn more calories at rest. Animal studies have found that BAT activation through supplementation with bergamot polyphenols leads to decreased body fat and improved overall metabolic health.
Blood Sugar and Cholesterol
Bergamot is rich in antioxidants, which help protect against oxidative stress and free radical damage in the body. In addition to these benefits, recent studies suggest that bergamot supplements may also be beneficial for managing blood sugar levels and cholesterol levels.
In one study published in the journal Phytotherapy Research, researchers evaluated the effects of bergamot extract on insulin resistance, hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), and dyslipidemia (unhealthy cholesterol levels).
Results showed that bergamot supplementation significantly improved insulin sensitivity and lowered glucose levels in participants with high blood sugar levels.
Bergamot extract has been shown to be beneficial in the prevention and management of a number of conditions, including
- the potential to improve cholesterol levels;
- reduce inflammation;
- boost metabolism.
Studies have also suggested that bergamot may help reducing cholesterol, which is important for maintaining healthy heart health, preventing cardiovascular disease, managing metabolic syndrome, and treating alcoholic and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
In addition, it has been found to have positive effects on hdl cholesterol levels, which is important for maintaining a healthy heart.
Additionally, those who took bergamot oil also had a reduction in total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol ("bad" cholesterol), and triglycerides — all of which are important for maintaining healthy heart health.
Bergamot Supplementation
In addition to bergamot supplements, there are several other ways to consume the benefits of this powerful citrus fruit. Drinking a cup of Earl Grey tea, for example, is an easy way to benefit from bergamot extract's antioxidant and fat-burning properties. Additionally, adding a few drops of bergamot essential oil to a cup of warm water can provide a quick pick-me-up throughout the day.
In addition to its potential for aiding weight loss, bergamot oil has also been studied for its potential in helping with other health conditions. It has been found to have a significant decrease in blood glucose levels, which can be important for people with diabetes or pre-diabetes. Bergamot essential oil is also thought to have beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system and may help reduce inflammation.
Bergamot Juice
By incorporating bergamot oil and juice—both derived from the fruit—into a body weight loss program, one can not only reduce their overall fat but also target belly fat. Bergamot juice is made by extracting the juice from fresh bergamot oranges and is rich in vitamins C and E, as well as other antioxidants like flavonoids and polyphenols.
The essential oil is made by steam distilling the peel of fresh bergamot oranges, and it has a strong citrus aroma with floral and herbal undertones.
Bergamot juice extract and its associated products are great way to help people achieve their weight loss goals.
Potential Side Effects and Precautions
When consumed in large quantities, bergamot juice extract can cause various side effects. These include:
- Upset stomach;
- Nausea;
- Vomiting;
- Dizziness;
- Fatigue;
- Heartburn;
- Headache.
Sometimes, bergamot flavonoids may also cause low blood pressure or an irregular heartbeat.
People who take certain medications for diabetes or high cholesterol should avoid using bergamot oil due to its possible interaction with these drugs.
Pregnant women and nursing mothers should also be cautious when taking bergamot extract for weight loss, as limited information about its safety during pregnancy and lactation is available.
In addition to potential side effects associated with consuming large amounts of bergamot oil, certain precautions should be taken when using it for weight loss purposes.
- Firstly, ensuring that the product you purchase is sourced from a reputable supplier and contains pure ingredients only is vital.
- Secondly, it should always be consumed in moderation; any amount over the recommended dosage should not be used as this could lead to serious health complications.
- Finally, people suffering from any medical condition should consult their healthcare provider before taking any supplement containing bergamot oil.
Conclusion
Bergamot extract has been studied for its potential to support weight loss by reducing body fat, boosting metabolism, and improving digestion. In various human and animal studies, bergamot supplementation has been shown to reduce body fat, improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar levels, and lower cholesterol levels.
Additionally, bergamot oil may help boost metabolism and activate brown adipose tissue (BAT) for increased calorie burning.
However, it is important to note that large quantities of bergamot extract can cause side effects such as upset stomach, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, heartburn or headache. It is also essential to choose a reputable supplier with pure ingredients only when purchasing the supplement.
Given the promising potential of bergamot supplements for weight loss and cardiovascular health benefits, it's worth considering adding this powerful polyphenol-rich extract to your wellness routine.
However, speaking with your healthcare provider before taking any bergamot supplement is always the best practice.
For those interested in taking advantage of the benefits of bergamot supplemets in their weight loss journey, more information and resources are available online on reputable sources such as Healthline or medical journals concerning results from various studies conducted on the subject matter.