Ways to Lose Weight Without Exercising

The metabolism governs the rate at which food and chemical compounds are broken down and processed in the body. It regulates how fast nutrients are absorbed and waste is eliminated. Keeping a healthy digestive system and thyroid gland will help to keep the metabolism strong. There are many daily habits that can be developed to keep a healthy metabolism, which include drinking water, eating right and including foods and herbs in the diet that encourage a healthy digestive system.

Herbs and Tonics

• Lemon is believed to have a cleansing effect on the liver. A squeeze of lemon in water is said to have a purifying effect. It is recommended that you drink eight cups of water a day with a splash of lemon to give the digestive system a cleanse and a boost.

  Ginger helps the body to produce digestive enzymes. These are the enzymes in the body responsible for breaking down and absorbing food, including protein, fats, lactose and carbohydrates. Fruit, vegetables and sprouted grains are also high in digestive enzymes and are recommended in your diet.

  Cayenne pepper is known to boost the metabolism. It is also known to have a cleansing effect on the bowel, encouraging the elimination of waste from the body. Sprinkle cayenne pepper on your food daily to reap the benefits.

  Apple cider vinegar contains a fiber known as pectin. This fiber flushes fat, toxins and cholesterol from the body. It also has a cleansing effect on the liver, kidneys and bowel, supporting a healthy digestive system and the elimination of waste from the body.

  Dandelion root has a cleansing effect on the liver and kidneys. The liver helps to break down and process fat in the body, and a healthy liver supports the digestive system and the elimination of waste.

  Marshmallow root, fennel and licorice are known to have a cleansing and soothing effect on the intestines. This supports the digestive system so food can be easily broken down and digested.

  Astragalus and stinging nettle are known to have a toning effect on the adrenal glands. When the adrenal glands function well, you will have more energy and be better equipped to deal with stress.

  Kelp contains a high amount of iodine, which is a major component in the thyroid hormone. The thyroid gland produces a hormone that regulates the metabolism. When it is underactive, it becomes very difficult to lose weight. Weight gain will often occur and you may feel fatigued.

Meals

• Eat breakfast every day. The metabolism starts to work as soon as you consume your first meal. This can be a piece of fruit, a protein shake or cereal. Eating breakfast can help to balance your blood sugar levels so that you are less likely to snack at night. Especially if you consume food that is high in protein. Protein takes longer to digest and helps to balance blood sugar levels. It will also help you to feel full for longer.

  Eat six small meals a day instead of three big meals. The size of your meals is very important. Small portions will help to avoid stretching the stomach. Eventually you will need less food to feel full. Eat protein with lunch and dinner. This can include grilled meat of any kind, tofu, beans or tempeh with vegetables, brown rice or whole wheat pasta or bread. Eat fruit, yogurt or nuts as snacks in between each meal.

Sleep

• Be sure to get a solid sleep each night. This will help you cope with stress on a daily basis. Stress will slow the metabolism and add strain to the digestive system. The body burns more fat during sleep than it does when you are sitting or lying when you are awake. Sleep will help to balance the hormones and help the body to restore itself and replenish it's energy levels.