Bitter substances are found in many herbs and vegetables. They are plant substances that have an effect on the metabolism and are thus helpful in slimming down.

Bitter substances are actually toxins that plants use to protect themselves from enemies. How can we use bitter substances to protect ourselves from cravings caused by bitter substances?

Humans have bitter substance receptors in the intestine and on the tongue that produce hormones when activated. These hormones have a positive effect on the metabolism. They promote digestion by stimulating stomach and intestinal activity and stimulate the production of bile. This in turn improves the breakdown of proteins, carbohydrates and fats. 

As a result, the food is better and more effectively utilised and fewer fat deposits are stored in the tissue. In addition, the bitter substances send a signal to the brain through the receptors that we are getting full faster, because "bitter" means inedible for the body, even if the food is actually edible. 

Bitter substances are abundant in fresh herbs such as mugwort, tarragon, dandelion, rosemary and turmeric. You can use them to flavour your food without significantly increasing the amount of calories.

In a conventional diet, certain foods are usually avoided in favour of losing weight, which can lead to deficiencies. If you utilise the effect of bitter substances to your advantage, this means enriching your food with fresh herbs. In addition to bitter substances, these contain a lot of nutrients, so a lack of vitamins or minerals is unlikely.