Simple Hunger-Hormone Balancing Soup

Leptin-Boosting Black Bean Soup

In the past 10-15 years we’ve learned so much more about why the body gains weight. While previous logic was the simplistic calories in vs calories out (and there are still some useful applications), the reality is that this is not a reliable, or useful way to achieve long-term, sustainable weight loss.

Studies have actually shown that a considerable percentage (~97%) of those people who lose weight using calorie restriction gain it back, and more within 2-5 years. So what’s the answer?

There are a few things that we now know for sure: weight gain is not simply about calories, it’s about hormones, inflammation, acidity, and oxidative stress. In short – it’s about balance in your body. When your body is out of balance, weight gain is the outcome.

And the most essential balance is with your endocrine system, and the hormones that it regulates.

This is a deep topic that we wont’ go too far into today, as I want to focus on just one of those hormones: leptin.

Leptin is a hormone that helps to regulate hunger, and it’s one of the most important hormones when it comes to weight loss. However, leptin resistance is extremely common, and it’s a major reason why people struggle with their weight.

Leptin resistance occurs when your body no longer responds properly to leptin signals. This leads to constant hunger, cravings, and eventually weight gain. Thankfully, using simple nutrients, you can help support your body’s capacity to balance leptin. Leptin is actually made in the fat cells, so eating alkaline-forming foods and balancing blood sugar are critical.

This is a simple recipe includes a TON of leptin balancing nutrients, and is both delicious and easy to make. So let’s get stuck in.

Leptin-Boosting Black Bean Soup
Serves 2

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp. coconut oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 ribs celery, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 can black beans, drained
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or bone broth)
• 1 tsp. ground cumin
• Garnish: 1/2 avocado, diced; 1 lime, juiced; 2tbsp chopped cilantro (coriander)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the coconut oil gently, then add the onion, celery, and carrots.
2. Saute these for around 10 minutes, and then add the garlic and saute for another 1-2minutes (don’t allow it to burn).
3. Next add the capsicum (bell pepper), beans, cumin and broth and stir well.
4. Bring this all to the boil and then reduce to a simmer, cooking for a futher 20 minutes.
5. Once everything is softened, transfer to a blender and blend until smooth.
6. Now you can serve, adding the garnishes and enjoy!