If you are overweight, even minor weight loss can help improve your health. Many different weight loss aids are on the market, including those containing green tea, which has been studied for its potentially beneficial effects on metabolism and weight loss. Green tea comes in several forms, including tea for drinking, pure herbal supplements and herbal combinations designed for weight loss. You can incorporate green tea into a healthful diet and exercise program to help you lose weight; however, you should speak with a qualified health professional before taking any herbal supplements.
Tea
High-quality green tea leaves, such as the kind available in health food stores or Asian markets, contain antioxidants known as polyphenols. Consume a cup of brewed green tea two or three times daily to help boost your energy level and improve your metabolism, making it easier to burn excess body fat and get the exercise you need. The green tea at your local supermarket may be effective, but it may be composed of lower-grade tea leaves.
Extract/Supplement
Taking a supplement that contains only green tea or green tea extract may also be effective in aiding weight loss. According to the Mayo Clinic, green tea supplements may come in doses of 100 to 750 mg per capsule. Keep in mind that a standard dose for human consumption has not been established; although the recommended dose on your bottle is probably safe, you should check with a health professional, such as a doctor or a pharmacist, to ensure proper dosing.
Weight Loss Formulas
Many weight loss supplements contain a mix of ingredients, including green tea or green tea extract, to boost metabolism, burn fat and increase your energy level. These types of formulas can be very effective; however, you should consider the risks. Green tea contains approximately 80 mg of caffeine per serving. Caffeine from green tea combined with other caffeinated substances in the supplement may cause a caffeine overdose. Symptoms of an overdose of caffeine or other stimulants include irregular heartbeat, breathing difficulty and dizziness, according to the National Library of Medicine. Weight loss supplements should be taken with caution.
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