Green tea comes from the same plant used to make black and oolong tea. Yet, green tea differs because it is not fermented. The lack of fermentation allows it to retain higher levels of polyphenols such as catechins, which are proven to increase fat metabolism in the liver. Increased fat utilization and higher metabolic rates result in weight loss. It is the presence of catechins as well as caffeine that are responsible for the weight-loss effects of green tea. When used specifically for weight loss, 4 to 5 cups of green tea should be consumed daily. Most importantly, the tea should be prepared properly and used on the same day it is brewed.
Step 1
Put 1 tsp. of loose leaf tea into your tea pot or tea ball. Stainless steel tea balls can be found at culinary supply stores and online. If you use a teal ball, you can easily brew tea directly in your mug rather that using the teapot for steeping.
Step 2
Boil water and allow the water to cool for a few minutes before pouring over the leaves. Pay attention to the temperature of your water. Just-boiled water is actually too hot for brewing green tea, as the high temperature cooks the leaves. No need to break out the thermometer, though--just be sure to let the water cool for several minutes before pouring it over your leaves.
Step 3
Allow the tea to steep for a few minutes. At this stage, the tea is becoming more potent and releasing the compounds that will aid your weight loss. If the tea seems stronger than you'd like, simply use less tea next time. Adjust conversely if you find the tea strength weak.
Tips and Warnings
- Use the freshest green tea leaves you can find and invest in a beautiful teapot and ceramic mug to enhance your tea dieting experience. Since the healthful benefits of green tea are scientifically proven, it's a win-win weight loss combination. The green tea diet can be a nourishing and enjoyable way to lose weight.
Things You'll Need
- Loose leaf, high-quality green tea
- Water
- Tea pot or tea ball
- Tea kettle
- Mug
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