Licorice

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) has generally been associated with uses other than weight loss. One study of only 15 people who were not overweight showed that it reduced overall body fat but had no effect on BMI.

As a supplement, it may interfere with platelet function and increase the risk of bleeding. It should be avoided in people on blood thinners. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also avoid it.

Licorice may also cause your body to hold on to sodium and water. It should therefore be avoided in people with high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, and people with swelling. It can cause a syndrome called pseudoadolsteronism and low potassium.

It is important you discuss any weight loss or exercise plan with your doctor. Only you and your physician can decide what is best for you. Some people have certain conditions that prevent them from doing all exercises, and goal body weights may be different for different people. You need to discuss all these things with your physician before starting any weight loss or exercise program.