Green tea is derived from the dried leaves of the perennial evergreen shrub known as the camellia sinensis. It has been consumed for thousands of years. Harvard Health Publication says the health benefits of tea are due primarily to its antioxidant compounds called flavonoids. As a weight loss aid, green tea has been touted as having the ability to boost metabolism and curb appetite.
Considerations
Green tea contains natural anti-bacterial polyphenols called catechins that may be partially responsible for the herbs possible fat-burning effects. However, the Mayo Clinic says there is little evidence to back claims that green tea will help you shed unwanted pounds. In fact, it says a high level of consumption may cause diarrhea, vomiting and bloating in some people.
Study
One study found the combination of green tea and caffeine helped overweight individuals lose weight and keep it off. The research was conducted by T. Nagao, T. Hase and I. Tokimitsu at Health Care Food Research Laboratories, in Tokyo, Japan. The findings of the study were published in the "Journal of Obesity" in 2007.
Additional Research
A study conducted by the University of Geneva and Laboratoires Arkopharma in Nice, France, compared the amount of energy burned by men who were given green tea extract to those who consumed only water or caffeine. The study concluded that green tea extract caused a 4 percent boost in metabolism. The findings of the study were published in the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition" in December 1999.
Precautions
Since green tea contains caffeine people with heart disease, kidney problems and stomach ulcers should limit their consumption of green tea. Green tea may interact with certain medications, including lithium, aspirin and oral contraceptives. Consult with your doctor before you begin a green tea diet.
Outlook
Drinking green tea may give your metabolism a modest boost. But as with any healthy weight loss program, a green tea diet should include nutritious, low-calorie foods like fruits and vegetables, as well as increased physical activity.
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