Does Green Tea Boost Metabolism?

Green tea is a popular beverage throughout the world. Made from the fermented leaves of the camellia sinesis plant, green tea is a focus of research for its multiple health benefits, primarily attributed to properties called catechins. Charging up the metabolism can be a positive effect of green tea. According to the University of Maryland's Medical Center, you should use caution when taking herbs because they can interact with other herbs, supplements or medications.

Identification

Green tea leaves have a shorter fermenting process than black and oolong teas, which come from the same plant. Green tea contains natural plant chemicals called catechins. According Nadin Taylor, registered dietitian and author of "Green Tea: The Natural Secret to a Healthier Life," green tea's catechins have powerful antioxidant properties and can help you lose weight by increasing your metabolism. Consult with your health practitioner about drinking green tea for weight-loss purposes.

Types

Choose between traditional tea in a cup or the modern option of tea extract in capsule form. Check the containers of each for the ratio of raw herb used to make the tea or capsule. According to Taylor, a 50-to-1 ratio of green tea extract is ideal; that means that 50 pounds of dry leaves were used to produce 1 pound of extract. Ask a botanical specialist for the best-quality green tea products.

Benefits

Add green tea to the daily diet to fire up your metabolism and lose weight. According to a 2007 study published in the American Journal of Physiology, the combination of caffeine and catechins in green tea appeas to help regulate body fat and prevent obesity. Ask your health practitioner about safety precautions if you are considering taking green tea to lose weight.

Significance

Green tea also could help you improve energy and endurance as you age. According to a 2008 animal-based study published in the American Journal of Physiology, the addition of green tea to the diet combined with regular exercise suppresses age-related decline in physical performance and energy metabolism. Check with your medical adviser about the safety of adding green tea to your diet.

Caution

During pregnancy you should use caution with teas and products containing caffeine, such as green tea. According to the American Pregnancy Association, the effects of caffeine on unborn babies during pregnancy is unclear. Consult with your obstetrician or midwife before drinking any herbal or non-herbal teas during pregnancy.