Green tea has been the subject of substantial research in relation to its weight loss benefits.
Each of the numerous studies that have been performed recorded that green tea is a valuable aid to weight loss and may assist in keeping you in shape.
There are also many additional health benefits attached to drinking a few cups of tea a day and as such green tea forms an important function in any health-boosting program.
However Green tea is an aid to weight loss and when used solely for the purpose of weight loss it should always be a part of a program that includes a calorie-restrictive diet and increased exercise.
A study published in the December 1999 American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that:-
“Green tea has thermogenic properties and promotes fat oxidation beyond that explained by its caffeine content per se. The green tea extract may play a role in the control of body composition via sympathetic activation of thermogenesis, fat oxidation, or both.”
Published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in the November 1999 edition was the result of a study conducted at the University of Geneva. A group of men was given a combination of Caffeine and green tea while another group was given caffeine and a placebo. The group given caffeine and tea was found to burn more calories than those given the placebo.
How green tea promotes weight loss
Apart from containing caffeine green tea is also rich in compounds known as catechin polyphenols. These compounds increase body thermogenesis and aid in fat burning.
One such catechin polyphenol known as EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) works synergistically with caffeine to increase metabolism and 24-hour energy expenditure.
Green tea catechins inhibit the movement of glucose in fat cells resulting in a reduction in the excess sugars and being stored in your body as fat cells.
Safe for diabetes type 2
Green tea helps to improve insulin action and block glucose absorption. Thus it is an important aid in regulating blood sugar levels in those who suffer from Diabetes Type 2.
Many Diabetes type 2 sufferers do experience weight problems and are unable to use most of the weight loss products commercially available. Green tea is an ideal aid as it not only promotes weight loss but also assists in controlling the problem.
Which green tea is best for weight loss
With so many varieties of green tea available it is no wonder that most Westerners are confused as to which tea would be best for weight loss.
It is fairly informative to know that all green tea is derived from the Camellia Sinensis plant and the differences in quality, flavor, and health benefits are due to the curing process and the area in which it is grown. Basic green tea usually contains the most catechins as it is subjected to minimal processing in order to preserve the catechins as much as possible.
When asking a Chinese person which tea is best for weight loss you will almost certainly be told that Oolong is most appropriate. Oolong is a medium oxidized tea that promotes detoxing amongst other benefits. I am also of a firm belief that Oolong is a powerful diuretic that aids in reducing water retention.
Scientific research has indicated that the higher levels of EGCG found in plain green tea would be most beneficial to your weight loss program.
I like to use a blend of some of the best tea’s that produce excellent results:-
- Oolong – a slightly fermented green tea that is reputed to be best for weight loss results.
- White Tea – the tender tips and buds of the plant. Very high in antioxidants.
- Pu-Erh tea – The well-fermented green tea type that has numerous health benefits including cholesterol-lowering.
- Organic Green tea – Slightly steamed and preserved for maximum health benefit.