Is Masala Tea Good for Weight Loss? Exploring the Spiced Brew's Potential

Introduction

Imagine sipping a warm, aromatic beverage that not only soothes your senses but also quietly works behind the scenes to support your body's natural functions. In a world brimming with fleeting health fads and complicated diets, the idea of a simple, comforting drink offering genuine wellness benefits can feel like a breath of fresh air. This is precisely why so many of us are turning our attention to ancient remedies and traditional practices, seeking natural, wholesome ways to support our health journeys. Among these, the humble yet powerful masala tea, a staple in many cultures, has emerged as a topic of keen interest, particularly for those curious about its potential role in weight management.

We often find ourselves navigating a landscape filled with conflicting information, making it challenging to discern what truly supports our well-being. At Bala Health, we’re dedicated to cutting through the noise, providing clear, science-backed insights to help you make informed decisions about your health. So, is this beloved spiced brew truly a secret weapon for those looking to manage their weight? This post will delve deep into the rich tapestry of masala tea’s ingredients, exploring how each component contributes to metabolism, thermogenesis, insulin sensitivity, and satiety. We'll uncover its holistic wellness benefits, discuss how to prepare it for maximum impact, and illustrate how embracing such mindful practices aligns with a comprehensive approach to health, supported by clean, functional solutions. Our journey together is about empowerment through understanding, helping you discover tangible ways to feel better from the inside out. To kick-start your personalized wellness journey and find a roadmap tailored to your unique needs, we invite you to take our 3-minute Weight-Loss Quiz today.

The Ancient Brew: What is Masala Tea?

Before we explore its potential benefits for weight management, let's understand what masala tea, often simply called "chai" in many parts of the world, truly is. Originating from India, masala tea is more than just a drink; it's a cultural icon, a symbol of hospitality, and a daily ritual for millions. The term "masala" literally means "spice blend," and thus, masala tea is a fragrant, invigorating concoction of black tea brewed with a unique mix of aromatic spices.

While variations abound, the core ingredients typically include black tea, fresh ginger, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and black pepper. Some recipes might also feature star anise, fennel, or nutmeg, each contributing to its distinctive, complex flavor profile. Traditionally, it's brewed with both water and milk, and often sweetened to taste.

The growing popularity of masala tea in Western cultures has led to the proliferation of "chai lattes" in coffee shops. However, it’s crucial to distinguish between a traditionally prepared Indian masala chai and its often sugar-laden, syrupy Westernized counterpart. Authentic masala tea relies on freshly ground or crushed spices, allowing their natural compounds to infuse the brew, whereas many commercial chai lattes are made with powders and syrups that contain excessive amounts of added sugar and artificial ingredients. This distinction is vital when considering its health benefits, especially for weight management, as the calorie and sugar content can vary dramatically. Our focus here is on the traditional, minimally processed version of this spiced tea, which truly embodies the spirit of natural wellness.

Masala Tea and Your Metabolism: A Spice-Fueled Boost

Metabolism is the intricate set of biochemical processes that convert food into energy, creating the fuel our bodies need to function. A healthy, efficient metabolism is a cornerstone of effective weight management. Masala tea, with its unique blend of spices, offers several intriguing ways to support these vital metabolic functions.

Cinnamon's Metabolic Magic

Cinnamon, a star player in most masala tea blends, is far more than just a sweet-tasting spice. Research has highlighted its potential to positively influence metabolism. It contains powerful compounds like cinnamaldehyde and eugenol, which have been studied for their metabolic benefits. These compounds may help stimulate thermogenesis, the body's natural heat production, which can contribute to increased calorie expenditure.

Moreover, cinnamon is well-regarded for its ability to help regulate blood sugar levels. When blood sugar remains stable, the body is better equipped to utilize glucose for energy, preventing its excess storage as fat. This stable energy supply not only supports metabolism but can also help reduce cravings and energy crashes, common hurdles in any wellness journey. For a busy professional struggling with afternoon brain fog and digestive discomfort, incorporating ingredients like cinnamon that support stable blood sugar can be a game-changer, helping maintain focus and energy throughout the day.

Black Tea's Caffeine Kick

The base of masala tea is typically black tea, which provides a natural source of caffeine. Caffeine is a well-known stimulant that can increase energy expenditure and stimulate metabolism. It works by influencing the central nervous system, which in turn can lead to increased fat breakdown and release into the bloodstream to be used as fuel. While the caffeine content in a cup of masala tea is generally lower than in coffee, it still offers a gentle, sustained energy lift without the jitters often associated with higher caffeine doses. This subtle boost can encourage more physical activity and a generally more active state, contributing to a higher metabolic rate throughout the day.

Black Pepper and Piperine

Often underestimated, black pepper is another crucial spice in traditional masala tea. It contains a potent compound called piperine, which has been shown to have several metabolic benefits. Studies suggest that piperine may help increase the metabolic rate of resting muscle fibers, meaning your body might burn more calories even when at rest. Beyond this, piperine is also recognized for its ability to enhance the absorption of nutrients from food, particularly fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K). Improved nutrient absorption means your body can more efficiently utilize the fuel it receives, which in turn demands more energy for processing and utilization, further supporting metabolic activity.

These combined effects—from cinnamon’s blood sugar regulation to black tea’s gentle caffeine and black pepper’s piperine—demonstrate how masala tea can be a supportive addition to a metabolically healthy lifestyle. Just as these spices work synergistically to support your internal engine, we believe in providing comprehensive solutions for your gut health. Our philosophy at Bala Health is built on science-first principles, ensuring that what we offer delivers real results. That's why we formulated our Bala Health Pre+Probiotic with 10 clinically studied strains and a robust 50 Billion CFU, plus prebiotics, to foster a balanced gut microbiome that is foundational for overall metabolic well-being.

Igniting Your Inner Furnace: Masala Tea and Thermogenesis

Beyond simply boosting metabolism, certain components of masala tea can also enhance thermogenesis, the process by which the body generates heat. This natural metabolic process requires energy, meaning your body burns calories to produce warmth. It's a fundamental aspect of energy balance and can be influenced by various factors, including the foods and drinks we consume.

Ginger's Warming Power

Ginger is a quintessential ingredient in masala tea, providing its characteristic "gentle burn" and a wealth of health benefits. This root is a superstar when it comes to thermogenesis. Research indicates that ginger can significantly increase the rate at which the body burns calories. One of its remarkable properties is its ability to activate brown adipose tissue (BAT), a specialized type of fat tissue that, unlike white fat, generates heat by burning calories. Increasing BAT activity is a promising avenue for weight management research, and ginger offers a natural way to support this process.

Consider the individual who frequently feels sluggish or whose digestion seems slow. The warming effect of ginger, combined with its digestive benefits, can feel incredibly revitalizing. A study highlighted that even a modest dose of ginger powder dissolved in hot water could increase thermogenesis after a meal, suggesting its potential role in weight management. In a typical cup of traditionally prepared masala chai, the ginger content can be quite substantial, offering a significant dose of these beneficial compounds.

Furthermore, ginger is known to improve the absorption of nutrients from foods. By enhancing nutrient uptake, the body's energy expenditure for processing and utilizing these nutrients naturally increases, further contributing to thermogenesis. It’s a testament to nature’s ingenuity that a simple root can contribute so meaningfully to our body's energy dynamics. We believe that supporting your body’s natural ability to function optimally shouldn’t be complicated. By understanding ingredients like ginger and their roles, we empower you to make informed choices that align with your wellness goals. This kind of thoughtful, integrated approach is at the heart of Bala Health, where we provide clean, functional formulas to support your body's innate capabilities.

Balancing the Sweet Spot: Insulin Sensitivity and Masala Tea

Stable blood sugar levels and optimal insulin sensitivity are critical, not just for preventing chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes, but also for effective weight management. When the body's cells are less responsive to insulin (a condition known as insulin resistance), the pancreas has to produce more insulin, which can lead to higher blood sugar levels and increased fat storage. Fortunately, several spices found in masala tea have been shown to help improve insulin sensitivity.

Cinnamon's Role in Glucose Regulation

Cinnamon stands out once again for its profound effects on insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. It acts in several key ways:

• Increased Glucose Uptake: Cinnamon can enhance the uptake of glucose by muscle cells, helping to reduce blood glucose levels and improve how effectively insulin works. This means sugar is moved out of the bloodstream and into cells more efficiently for energy, rather than being stored as fat.
• Reduced Insulin Resistance: By making cells more responsive to insulin, cinnamon helps to counter insulin resistance. This is vital because improved insulin sensitivity means the body can maintain healthy blood sugar levels with less effort from the pancreas.
• Enhanced Insulin Signaling: The compounds in cinnamon have been found to enhance the complex signaling pathways that insulin uses to communicate with cells. This improved communication ensures that the body responds appropriately to insulin's presence.
• Anti-inflammatory Effects: Chronic inflammation is a significant contributor to insulin resistance. Cinnamon’s anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce systemic inflammation, thereby indirectly supporting better insulin function.

Ginger's Complementary Action

Ginger also plays a supportive role in blood sugar control. Studies have shown that ginger powder can help lower fasting blood sugar levels and improve overall glycemic control, especially in individuals with type 2 diabetes. While its mechanism differs slightly from cinnamon, ginger complements cinnamon's actions by contributing to metabolic balance and potentially further reducing insulin resistance.

For those navigating the complexities of modern diets, which often lead to erratic blood sugar spikes and crashes, these spices offer a natural avenue for support. Maintaining stable blood sugar helps prevent energy slumps and intense cravings, which are often triggers for unhealthy snacking and overeating. This mindful management of blood sugar is a powerful tool in any weight management strategy. To discover your personalized gut-health roadmap and understand how blood sugar balance fits into your unique wellness journey, we encourage you to start the quiz here. It's a simple, effective way to gain clarity and direction.

Feeling Full and Satisfied: Masala Tea's Satiety Signals

One of the greatest challenges in managing weight is often feeling hungry or unsatisfied, leading to increased caloric intake. Masala tea can play a surprisingly helpful role in promoting feelings of fullness and curbing appetite, making it a valuable ally in a balanced eating plan.

When traditionally prepared with milk, masala tea often incorporates protein-rich dairy or plant-based milks. Proteins are renowned for their ability to enhance satiety. For instance, cow's milk contains casein, a slow-digesting protein that forms a gel-like substance in the stomach. This slows down the rate at which food leaves the stomach, leading to a more sustained release of nutrients into the bloodstream, which helps regulate blood sugar and prolongs feelings of fullness. Opting for oat milk or other plant-based alternatives can still provide some protein and fiber to contribute to satiety, especially if they are unsweetened.

Cardamom and Digestive Enzymes

Cardamom, another fragrant cornerstone of masala tea, not only adds exquisite flavor but also contributes to satiety through its digestive benefits. This spice contains volatile oils that have been shown to stimulate the secretion of digestive enzymes and bile acids. Improved digestion and absorption of nutrients mean your body can extract more goodness from the food you eat, leading to a stronger sense of satisfaction and fullness. When your body is efficiently nourished, the signals of hunger tend to diminish naturally.

Ginger's Appetite-Regulating Compounds

Ginger, in addition to its metabolic and thermogenic properties, also possesses appetite-suppressing qualities. It contains bioactive compounds like gingerol and shogaol, which play a role in regulating the hunger hormones leptin and ghrelin. Ghrelin is often referred to as the "hunger hormone," signaling to your brain when it's time to eat. Leptin, on the other hand, is the "satiety hormone," indicating when you've had enough. Studies suggest that ginger may help reduce ghrelin levels (thereby decreasing appetite) and increase leptin levels, promoting a feeling of satisfaction and reducing the urge for unnecessary snacking.

For those grappling with incessant cravings or struggling to stay full between meals, a warm cup of thoughtfully prepared masala tea can be a perfect between-meals beverage. It offers a flavorful, comforting experience that can help to stave off unwarranted snacking desires without adding excessive calories. This aligns perfectly with our belief at Bala Health that managing your body's signals naturally is key to sustainable wellness. Our approach is about empowering you with solutions that work with your body, not against it. Just as the synergistic spices in masala tea support your digestion and satiety, our Bala Health Pre+Probiotic is designed to cultivate a thriving gut microbiome, which is profoundly linked to digestive comfort and overall well-being, including how your body processes nutrients and manages hunger cues. Explore our clinically-backed formula today to support digestive balance and ease occasional bloating.

Beyond Weight Management: Holistic Wellness Benefits of Masala Tea

While our primary focus has been on masala tea's potential role in weight management, its benefits extend far beyond, touching various facets of overall health. The rich tapestry of spices in this ancient brew offers a multitude of compounds that contribute to holistic wellness, aligning perfectly with our philosophy at Bala Health: that true health blossoms from the inside out.

Antioxidant Powerhouse

Black tea, the foundation of masala chai, is brimming with antioxidants, particularly polyphenols, which combat oxidative stress in the body. Cardamom and cloves further contribute to this antioxidant bounty. These compounds help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, supporting cellular health and contributing to overall vitality. A body with less oxidative stress is better equipped to manage its metabolic processes, absorb nutrients, and maintain cellular integrity, all of which are foundational to feeling good and looking vibrant.

It’s important to recognize that inner wellness lays the groundwork for outer beauty. A healthy gut, supported by proper digestion and nutrient absorption (areas where masala tea’s ingredients can offer support), is crucial for radiant skin, strong hair, and healthy nails. Just as masala tea offers a holistic approach to internal health, products like our Bala Hair, Skin & Nails formula are designed to support your natural glow by focusing on foundational beauty from within. Discover your inner glow with Bala and shop our clean formula for hair, skin, and nails.

Anti-inflammatory Effects

Chronic inflammation is an underlying factor in many health issues, from digestive discomfort to more systemic concerns. The ginger and cloves in masala tea are potent anti-inflammatory agents. Ginger contains gingerols, which have been extensively studied for their anti-inflammatory properties, while cloves contain eugenol, known for its ability to soothe discomfort. Incorporating these spices into your daily routine can help reduce inflammation throughout the body, fostering a more comfortable and resilient internal environment.

Digestive Support

Masala tea is often celebrated for its digestive benefits, a claim rooted in centuries of Ayurvedic practice. Ginger, cardamom, and black pepper are key players here. Ginger aids digestion by stimulating digestive enzymes and enhancing circulation to the digestive organs, promoting efficient breakdown of foods. Cardamom can help increase saliva production and stimulate digestive enzymes, while black pepper (piperine) improves nutrient absorption. For someone who frequently experiences occasional bloating or digestive sluggishness, a warm cup of masala tea can provide a soothing and supportive effect, helping to ease discomfort and promote regularity. This emphasis on foundational digestive health resonates deeply with our mission at Bala Health. We understand that a happy gut is often the first step towards feeling truly well.

Immunity Boosting

A robust immune system is vital for fending off illness and maintaining overall health. Several spices in masala tea contribute to immune resilience. Cardamom is rich in Vitamin C, a powerful immune-boosting nutrient. Cloves and cinnamon also possess antimicrobial and immune-modulating properties, while ginger is a well-known ally against colds and congestion due to its anti-inflammatory and antiviral qualities. Regular consumption of these spices can help build a stronger defense line against common infections, keeping you feeling strong and healthy.

The comprehensive benefits of masala tea underscore the profound connection between diet, traditional wisdom, and overall well-being. By integrating such nutrient-rich, functional ingredients into your lifestyle, you are not just addressing one aspect of health but nurturing a more balanced and resilient body from the inside out. This holistic perspective is at the core of Bala Health's commitment to simplifying wellness with clean, functional, science-backed formulas, helping you achieve lasting health and vitality.

Crafting Your Masala Tea for Optimal Wellness: A Mindful Approach

To truly harness the potential wellness benefits of masala tea, particularly for weight management, how you prepare and consume it is paramount. The difference between a health-supporting brew and a sugar-laden treat often lies in the details.

Importance of Unsweetened or Minimally Sweetened Versions

This is perhaps the most critical distinction. Many commercial chai lattes are loaded with added sugars, often exceeding recommended daily limits in a single serving. These sugar bombs can negate any potential benefits for blood sugar regulation and weight management, adding empty calories that contribute to weight gain rather than loss.

For optimal health benefits, aim for an unsweetened masala tea or sweeten it very sparingly with natural alternatives like a tiny dash of honey, maple syrup, or jaggery, if absolutely necessary. The goal is to appreciate the natural complexity and warmth of the spices rather than masking them with excessive sweetness.

Choosing Whole, Fresh Ingredients

The power of masala tea lies in its fresh spices. Whenever possible, use freshly ground or crushed spices rather than pre-made powders that might contain fillers or have lost their potency. Grating fresh ginger, crushing cardamom pods, and breaking cinnamon sticks before brewing will ensure a richer flavor and a higher concentration of beneficial compounds. This commitment to quality ingredients ensures you're getting the most functional value from your brew.

Considering Milk Alternatives

Traditionally, masala tea is made with dairy milk, which contributes to its creamy texture and provides protein for satiety. However, if you are lactose intolerant, prefer plant-based options, or are looking to reduce saturated fat intake, unsweetened plant-based milks like oat, almond, or soy milk are excellent alternatives. These can still offer a creamy consistency and some nutritional benefits, helping to make your tea a more filling beverage without the drawbacks of high-fat dairy or added sugars. You can also make a delicious, calorie-free version with just tea, spices, and water, focusing solely on the benefits of the spice infusion.

Understanding Caffeine Content

While masala tea offers a milder caffeine kick compared to coffee, it's still present due to the black tea base. A typical cup of masala tea contains about 25 mg of caffeine, roughly half that of black tea and a quarter of a standard cup of coffee. Most individuals can safely enjoy a few cups a day without issue. However, if you are sensitive to caffeine, pregnant, or have underlying health conditions, it's wise to monitor your intake. For those seeking to avoid caffeine altogether, decaffeinated black tea can be used as a base.

By being mindful of these preparation aspects, you transform masala tea from a simple beverage into a purposeful wellness tool. It’s about being deliberate with your choices, embracing the natural efficacy of whole ingredients, and tuning into your body’s needs. This philosophy mirrors our own at Bala Health, where we advocate for transparent, effective solutions that empower you to take control of your health with simplicity and integrity.

Bala Health's Approach to Inner Wellness

At Bala Health, we founded our brand with a clear mission: to combat the pervasive gimmicks and misinformation that plague the supplement industry. We believe that achieving optimal wellness shouldn't be complicated or confusing. Instead, it should be built on a foundation of clean-label, trustworthy formulas that are genuinely effective and backed by real results. Our commitment is to help you feel better from the inside out, providing science-backed solutions that truly work.

We understand that you might feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of conflicting health advice and the endless array of products on the market. That's why our approach is rooted in several core values:

• Science-First: Every ingredient and dosage in our formulas is chosen because it's clinically validated and supported by robust research. We don't guess; we rely on evidence.
• Transparency: No fluff, no hidden ingredients, no misleading claims. We are open about our ingredients and processes, so you know exactly what you're putting into your body.
• Simplicity: We believe health shouldn't be complicated. Our products and messaging are designed to be easy to understand and seamlessly integrate into your daily routine.
• Empowerment: We aim to educate our customers, providing you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about your health journey.
• Integrity: We deliver what we promise. If a product isn't effective, it's not Bala.

The careful selection and traditional preparation of masala tea, focusing on its natural, functional ingredients, aligns perfectly with our philosophy. It's about harnessing nature's wisdom and combining it with scientific understanding to support your body's innate capabilities.

When we talk about foundational health, gut wellness is often the starting point. Just as the spices in masala tea support various aspects of digestion, metabolism, and immunity, a balanced gut microbiome is crucial for overall well-being. This is precisely why we developed our Bala Health Pre+Probiotic.

Our Pre+Probiotic is a potent 2-in-1 formula featuring 10 clinically studied strains and a robust 50 Billion CFU (colony-forming units) to ensure maximum efficacy. We've also included prebiotics, which act as nourishment for the beneficial bacteria in your gut, helping them thrive. This comprehensive approach is designed to:

• Support digestive balance: Helping your gut microflora maintain a harmonious environment.
• Ease occasional bloating and discomfort: Providing relief for common digestive nuisances.
• Support a healthy immune system: As a significant portion of your immune system resides in your gut.
• Support nutrient absorption: Ensuring your body can effectively utilize the goodness from your food.

We believe that consistent support is key to long-term wellness. That’s why we offer our Bala Health Pre+Probiotic in value bundles. You can save significantly when you choose our 4-bottle bundle or our best-value 6-bottle bundle. Opting for these multi-bottle options ensures you have a consistent supply to support your gut health journey, allowing the beneficial bacteria to establish and maintain their presence for sustained results.

Embarking on a wellness journey can feel daunting, but it doesn't have to be. We are here to simplify the path, offering solutions that are grounded in science and designed for real life. To find your personalized gut-health roadmap and kick-start your transformation, we invite you to take our 3-minute Weight-Loss Quiz. It's the perfect first step toward understanding your unique needs and making informed decisions about your health.

Conclusion

The question "is masala tea good for weight loss?" opens a fascinating discussion into the nuanced ways traditional remedies can support our modern wellness goals. We've seen how the synergistic blend of spices in masala tea—from cinnamon's metabolic magic and insulin-sensitizing effects to ginger's thermogenic power and appetite-regulating compounds, and black pepper's nutrient absorption benefits—can collectively contribute to an environment conducive to healthy weight management. When prepared mindfully, without excessive sugar, masala tea emerges as more than just a comforting beverage; it's a flavorful, functional tool that can help boost metabolism, improve insulin sensitivity, increase satiety, and reduce overall caloric intake.

Beyond weight management, masala tea offers a wealth of holistic benefits, including potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, robust digestive support, and immune system reinforcement. It’s a testament to the power of whole, natural ingredients in nurturing our bodies from the inside out, aligning perfectly with our core belief at Bala Health that wellness should be clean, functional, and science-backed.

Embracing practices like enjoying a well-crafted masala tea is about making informed choices that support your body's natural functions. It's about empowering yourself with knowledge and simple, yet effective, strategies to feel your best. Just as masala tea supports your internal balance, we are committed to providing you with trustworthy solutions for your foundational health.

Ready to take the next step in your wellness journey? We encourage you to discover your personalized path. Take our 3-minute Weight-Loss Quiz to gain deeper insights into your body's unique needs and receive a tailored roadmap. For comprehensive digestive support that forms the bedrock of overall health and helps you ease occasional bloating, explore Bala Health's potent 2-in-1 Pre+Probiotic formula. Remember, choosing our 4-bottle or 6-bottle bundles offers the best value and ensures consistent support for your wellness journey. Invest in your health today and experience the Bala difference—clean, effective solutions for a better you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can masala tea alone help me lose a significant amount of weight?

While masala tea offers several benefits that can support weight management, such as boosting metabolism, improving insulin sensitivity, and increasing satiety, it's not a "magic bullet" for significant weight loss on its own. It's best viewed as a supportive tool within a broader holistic wellness plan that includes a balanced diet, regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and stress management. The key is to consume traditionally prepared, unsweetened or minimally sweetened masala tea to avoid adding excess calories and sugar.

Q2: How does traditional masala tea differ from a typical chai latte from a coffee shop, especially for weight management?

The primary difference lies in the sugar content and quality of ingredients. Traditional Indian masala tea typically uses fresh, whole spices and a modest amount of milk and sweetener. In contrast, many coffee shop chai lattes are made with pre-made chai concentrates, powders, or syrups that are heavily loaded with added sugars, artificial flavors, and excessive calories, often negating any potential health benefits for weight management. For wellness, always opt for a home-brewed or thoughtfully prepared unsweetened masala tea.

Q3: Which specific ingredients in masala tea are most beneficial for metabolism and satiety?

Several spices play key roles. Cinnamon is excellent for metabolism and improving insulin sensitivity due to compounds like cinnamaldehyde. Black tea contains caffeine, which can increase energy expenditure. Ginger enhances thermogenesis (calorie burning) and helps regulate hunger hormones (leptin and ghrelin), promoting satiety. Black pepper, with its active compound piperine, can boost metabolic rate and improve nutrient absorption. When prepared with milk, the protein (like casein) can also contribute to feelings of fullness.

Q4: Are there any potential downsides or precautions to consider when drinking masala tea regularly?

While generally safe and beneficial, there are a few considerations. Masala tea contains caffeine from black tea, so individuals sensitive to caffeine might want to monitor their intake or opt for decaffeinated versions to avoid restlessness, anxiety, or sleep disturbances. The ginger content can be potent, so those prone to low blood pressure or low blood sugar, or individuals on blood-thinning medication, may want to consult a healthcare professional or consume it in moderation. As with any food or beverage, moderation and attention to your body's unique response are always recommended.