Green tea has long been praised as a famous superfood beverage, with many potential benefits for the body and mind. One area in which green tea has been shown to be particularly effective is in weight loss.
In this blog post, we will explore the science behind green tea and weight loss, as well as provide tips for incorporating green tea into a weight loss plan.
Green tea leaves are made from the Camellia sinensis plant, which also produces black and oolong (wulong) teas. The key difference between these teas is the processing method; green tea leaves are steamed or pan-fried, while black and oolong teas are fermented or partially fermented. This way preserves the catechins, a type of antioxidant found in green tea leaves, that may lead to range of health benefits associated with the beverage.
Green tea helps in achieving weight loss through these several mechanisms:
1. Metabolism Boost
Green tea contains compounds called catechins, that have been shown to boost metabolism and increase fat burning.
EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), is one of the most well-studied catechins in green tea, that has been shown to boost metabolism and increase fat burning process. Several studies have shown that drinking green tea, combined with regular exercise, can lead to significant weight loss and reductions in body fat.
2. Appetite Control
Green tea can also help in regulating appetite and curbs cravings. All of this may help you lose weight. It has been showed that the catechins in green tea block the action of enzymes that breakdown norepinephrine, a hormone that aids in controlling appetite. Catechins help control appetite and lessen the need to snack between meals by stopping the breakdown of norepinephrine.
3. Fat Oxidation
Green tea catechins, specifically EGCG, can increases the activity of enzymes that helps in breaking down fat, leading to increased fat oxidation. So by this process body burns fat for energy and helps in weight loss.
4. Thermogenesis
Green tea also increases thermogenesis, which is the process of heat production in the body. This results in an increase in energy expenditure and calorie burning, which can help in weight loss.
Conclusion:
It is important to note that while green tea can be a useful addition to a weight loss plan, it shouldn’t be relied upon as the only way to lose weight. To reach and keep a healthy weight, one must follow a healthy diet and regular exercise. Remember that green tea contains caffeine, which in some individuals can have negative effects like insomnia, jitteriness, and increased heart rate. If you are sensitive to caffeine, you might want to choose decaffeinated green tea or restrict your intake.
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