In case you haven't heard of adaptogens, they are a category of herbs that help the body deal with stress, restore balance, and support normal metabolic processes. (A lot has been discussed recently about adaptogens, even Oz on Oprah). Often times STRESS causes us to overeat as well as produce excess cortisol (causes the body to store fat). Adaptogens support weight management by regulating blood sugar, insulin metabolism, and cortisol levels; aid in digestion; and increase energy. In fact, adaptogens have the ability to shift the body's metabolism to a greater use of fat for energy. Your body is definitely under a lot of stress since your divorce, raising 2 young boys and trying to find work. (My heart and prayers go out to you!)
To learn more about fast acting, natural adaptogen sprays (Slim is wonderful for cravings and weight control) and watch "The Story of Adaptogens Documentary" 10 minute video, go to www.TunguskaMistNow.com
You'll have more energy and endurance to work out with adaptogens. Are you weight training? Lean muscle mass will help speed up your metabolism, thus you'll burn more calories! Avoid fast foods, processed foods, and all soft drinks, (if you're not already). Drink plenty of water and eat smaller portions throughout the day.
Exercising more helps, cutting out carbs/starches, even counting calories/keeping a food log will help you monitor everything that you intake and keep you on track. Any kind of weight loss supplement or vitamin, etc. in a pill or tablet form gets absorbed only 10-15% by the time it breaks down in the body. The best delivery method for any supplements is an intra-oral spray (over 90% is absorbed immediately into the bloodstream).
2 great books that I recommend are: Living Lean, by Larry North and Adaptogens: Herbs for Strength, Stamina, and Stress Relief by Winston and Maimes.
Feel free to contact me if you have any questions, or need further advice and/or encouragement. I've studied health, wellness, and Kinesiology for many years and have a passion for helping people change their life:)