The latest buzz word in the diet industry is Yacon syrup, but what exactly is it and is there any truth in the talk that will help you shed a few pounds?
If you’ve ever wondered why your skinny friend can eat plates of food and not gain an inch while you nibble on salads and still pack on the pounds then take some comfort in the fact that it may not actually be your fault. Recent research from China has suggested that the bacteria in our guts goes a long way in determining how we gain and lose weight.
Human trials are only just getting started but results so far are very promising. Gut bacteria does appear to have the power to aid weight loss more than just cutting calories alone.
It’s not secret that our bodies are walking masses of bacteria. In fact there is said to be 10 times more bacteria in our body than cells so it’s should hardly come as a surprise that we are able to affect their well-being by controlling our symbiotic bacteria.
Foods that change our gut bacteria may provide a simple solution to controlling obesity and lead to ways to lose weight more effectively.
There are several common food stuffs that are capable of introducing these good bacteria into our system which includes artichokes, onions, garlic and leeks. Other less common alternatives such as Yacon syrup (or Yacon molasses) however may prove more effective.
What is Yacon Syrup?
Yacon (also known as Smallanthus sonchifolius) is a plant traditionally grown in the Andes mountains of South America although it can be grown in many areas worldwide with mild climates. The succulent yacon root, or tuber, is the most nourishing part of the plant and it is this that is used in the production on the sweet syrup.
This natural sweetener is similar in taste and texture to caramel or molasses although it is around half as sweet as sugar.
The root consists mainly of water and Fructooligosaccharide (FOS) which gives it the sweet taste. Fortunately this extract passes through the body relatively unmetabolised meaning that this type of sugar has a very low caloric value and is great for people looking to reduce their calorie intake.
One of the great things about FOS is that it acts to promote beneficial bacteria within the large intestine. These ‘skinny bacteria’ are said to aid digestion.
The Benefits of Yacon Syrup
There are three main benefits to be had from consuming yacon syrup.
Firstly, it acts as a natural appetite suppressant meaning that you are less likely to consume large amounts of food before feeling ‘full’.
As mentioned earlier it also increases the amount of good bacteria in the intestine to aid digestion and the absorption of minerals and boosting your metabolism.
Finally, Yacon is a rich source for fibers, antioxidants and potassium. All things that are beneficial for a healthy body.
The Yacon Diet
Being a syrup it is easy to incorporate yacon into your diet. It is normally taken before meals so that the appetite suppressors have time to kick in before you start eating with just one teaspoon being enough at each sitting. This may vary between manufacturers depending upon the purity of the syrup that you buy.
It is recommended that you look for an organic and 100% pure yacon syrup so as to avoid any possible side effects that are introduced with lower quality products, especially some of the pills on the market.
Many people find it best to use it as a sweetener in their morning coffee. As an alternative sweetener it is perfect for diabetics and vegans.
The syrup does have a slight laxative effect which is worth mentioning. If you are already suffering from diarrhea then it should be avoided.
It is recommended to folow the yacon diet for around 4 months to see the most effect.
So while you can’t beat a good regimen of a well balanced diet and regular exercise for those that struggle to move the pounds may find that supplements such as Yakon syrup can help.
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