Weight Loss Tea: Does It Really Work?

Drinking tea alone does not make you slim, but certain types of tea have been shown to influence metabolism and the feeling of satiety. These strains can help you lose weight or stick to a diet.

Tea as a weight loss companion

The demand for so-called fat burner teas is high, and tea can actually support weight loss. Certain strains are better suited for this than others, as numerous studies show. Green tea, oolong, mint, ginger or dandelion can boost fat burning and reduce sweet cravings in a number of ways. In addition, unsweetened tea contains no calories and is therefore an excellent thirst quencher, whether hot or cold.

However, it is important not to expect miracles from tea. The positive effects of tea alone are not enough to lose weight and stay slim for the long term. A combination of increased exercise and a change in diet is required to achieve the desired result. If you are overweight or have previous illnesses such as metabolic disorders, it is advisable to consult a doctor beforehand to ensure that losing weight is in harmony with your health. Nevertheless, a good tea can support your project in a healthy way.

Which tea helps you lose weight?

The following types of tea are considered to be well suited to support weight loss:

• Green tea
• ginger tea
• Mate tea
• rooibos tea
• Herbal tea blends (peppermint, nettle, dandelion)
• cumin tea

So-called detox or fat burner teas usually consist of green tea and often contain additional spices and herbs. The infusion is said to stimulate digestion and thus help with weight loss.

Green tea: why is it good for losing weight?

Green tea has the highest levels of phenolic compounds, giving it the best antioxidant properties of any major tea. The health benefits of green tea are well researched and there are numerous studies showing its effects on weight loss. Green tea can boost metabolism and increase fat burning. This is due to the catechins it contains, secondary plant substances from the flavonoid group that give green tea its bitter taste. Together with the caffeine they contain, they cause reduced fat absorption in the stomach and intestines, so that fats are better excreted and not stored in the body

be stored. A meta-analysis of 11 studies on the effects of green tea on weight loss and maintenance showed that catechins significantly decreased body weight and helped maintain it thereafter. Green tea also increases the body's basal metabolic rate, which promotes weight loss. However, it has been found that individuals who regularly consume caffeine, such as through coffee, may experience less of the stimulating effects of green tea.

What kind of green tea is best for weight loss?

There are several varieties of green tea, including large-leaf varieties and finely ground, powdered matcha. It is advisable to avoid ready-made green tea drinks with added flavors or sugar. Natural blends like Sencha, Gyokuro, Bancha, Matcha or Benifuuki are the best choices. It is also important that the tea is organic and free from pesticides. If green tea tastes too bitter, one can choose tea blends that contain raw cacao beans to mitigate the bitter taste.

What time of day should you drink green tea?

Green tea contains a certain amount of caffeine due to its high caffeine content, so it can be a good pick-me-up. It can replace coffee in the morning. If you often have cravings for sweets, green tea can help curb this appetite, as the bitter substances it contains inhibit sweet cravings.

What other types of tea can you drink to lose weight?

In addition to green tea, there are other types of tea that can accompany a weight loss program:

• Ginger tea: The gingerols contained in ginger give it its typical spiciness. Gingerol can help the body burn fat faster. Studies show that ginger intake can significantly decrease body weight and waist-to-hip ratio.

• Oolong tea: Oolong tea is traded as an absolute fat burner tea. A Chinese study found that regular consumption of oolong tea can reduce body weight and body fat levels by improving lipid metabolism. However, research is mixed, and some argue that green tea has similar effects on fat burning.

• Mate Tea: Mate tea is a South American tea beverage that contains caffeine. Due to the special combination of caffeine with minerals and vitamins, the stimulating effect lasts longer than with coffee.

Which tea can help you lose weight in the evening?

Herbal tea, such as hop tea, is recommended for the evening hours. Hops calm the nervous system and can help you fall asleep. Nettle tea, which is traditionally used in phytotherapy as a detoxifier and does not contain caffeine, is also recommended. Peppermint leaves contain an essential oil that can help prevent food cravings.

How Much Tea Should You Drink?

It is recommended not to drink more than four cups of green tea per day. Peppermint tea should be limited to three to four cups daily due to its high essential oil content. Rooibos tea, which comes from South Africa and tastes slightly sweet, can satisfy cravings for high-calorie sweets. If you prepare a whole pot of rooibos tea (four tablespoons per liter, steep for ten minutes), you can drink the tea throughout the day.

How do you prepare the tea correctly?

Each type of tea requires an individual water temperature and brewing time in order to develop the full taste experience and avoid bitter substances. Here are some recommendations for preparing the teas mentioned:

• Green Tea: The water temperature should be between 70°C and 80°C, and the steeping time is about 2-3 minutes.

• Ginger Tea: Fresh ginger can be peeled and sliced. The brewing time is about 5-10 minutes, depending on the desired intensity.

• Oolong Tea: The water temperature should be between 80°C and 90°C and the steeping time varies between 3-5 minutes depending on the variety.

• Mate tea: Mate tea can be infused with hot but not boiling water. The brewing time is about 5 minutes.

• Herbal tea: The water temperature and brewing time vary depending on the type of herb. It is advisable to follow the instructions on the packaging.

It is important to consider individual preferences and tolerances and to speak to a health care professional if necessary, especially if you have any existing health conditions or allergies.