In my last column we had a look at some of the substances now on the market as fat-fighters: chitosan, bromelain, caffeine, Fucus vesiculosis, aromatherapy diet pens, Urtica urens and St. John's wort. Today we'll consider a few more options in our hunt for what might work and what probably doesn't.
Each of these is said to have a diuretic effect when a couple of drops is added to the bath. They will not aid in actual weight loss, but if your weight gain is due to water retention they may be of some use. Not to be used during pregnancy.
Another diuretic, the greens of the dandelion plant are taken internally to encourage the elimination of excess water. Because the plant contains lots of potassium, which must be replaced with the use of any diuretic, this substance is healthier than many with similar effects. In the same way as the previous oils, this will not cause weight loss, just water loss. Available in tea form and as an ingredient in some weight-loss supplements.