Top 5 nutrients for weight loss

Taking vitamin D could help to offset the appetite-stimulating effect of low sunlight. Be sure by buy D3 as this is the active form, and aim for a maintenance dose of between 400 and 1000 micrograms p/day.

As a nutritionist, I’ve looked at many so-called natural diet pills to see if they could really help people shed the pounds. The bad news is there really is no one magic bullet, but certain nutrients can help you lose weight. Here are my top five:

1. Vitamin D3

Choose any brand of D3, although drops can deliver a better dose than tablets.

2. Fish oil

The omega 3 fats in fish oils have been shown to improve insulin sensitivity which helps to balance hunger and mood. It can also improve cell signalling and help natural anti-depressant serotonin work better. Low mood makes you comfort eat, so anything that lifts mood tends to suppress appetite.  

3. 5HTP

Tryptophan, the amino acid from which serotonin is made, is not available as a nutritional supplement in the UK. 5HTP is a herbal precursor of serotonin so can be converted in the body. Increasing serotonin may reduce appetite.

4. Chromium

Chromium has been shown to be effective in balancing out fluctuations in blood sugar and mood that can drive over-eating. As with many nutrients, chromium is better taken in combination with other vitamins such as vitamin B to increase energy.

5. B Complex

Who wants to go to the gym when they feel low in energy? Boosting B vitamins can increase energy so you’ll be doing that boot camp class and be back for more.