Chinese Herbal Diet Programs
Answered by: Susan Eagles
Question from: Gina
Posted on: May 28, 1998

What is Thermo-Chi? Is this an herbal diet? What do you recommend. I have also heard about Fen-Chi? Is this an herbal diet? I would like to find out what herbs are available for dieting. Please let me know what your company recommends.

Thermo-Chi and Fen-Chi are both Chinese herbal weight loss programs. I don’t have a personal knowledge of long term results using these programs. The marketing information says that they contain herbal combinations that decrease appetite, increase elimination and provide nutrients to improve functioning of the body’s systems. Both products contain ephedra, which can have undesirable side effects. Your health care provider must be consulted before starting these programs.

My own view on weight loss programs is that in the long run, a permanent change in the diet and regular exercise doing activities that you enjoy are more likely to improve health and maintain a healthy weight. In general, foods to be avoided because they cause health problems and an increase in weight and are: sugars, sweeteners, fatty, fried or processed foods, white flour products and dairy products. Foods to be increased are fresh fruits and vegetables, soy products, water, juices. Herbal teas and Dandelion coffee can replace caffeine drinks (tea, coffee, cola, cocoa).

Herbs that can help are: Chamomile is relaxing and improves digestion; Dandelion leaf and root improve liver, pancreas and intestinal function and assist bowel and urinary elimination; Wormwood improves digestive, liver and gall bladder function; Nettles provide essential vitamins and minerals and is a good blood tonic. A tea can be made using a teaspoon of the combined dried herbs to a cup of boiling water, steeped for 15 minutes and taken 3 times a day before meals.

There are many helpful books that can guide you through an enjoyable process of changing your diet and lifestyle. One such book is Dr. Dean Ornish’s "Eat More, Weigh Less", (Harper Collins Publishers) which describes the basic philosophy behind a fat free diet and includes hundreds of delicious recipes.

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