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Tea was originally thought to induce laziness and melancholy. However, a series of scientific discoveries proved that the flavanoids (antioxidants) in tea can prevent cancer, reduce risk of heart disease, and more! Most of the benefits come from brewed, not bottled tea, as bottled tea may contain more artificial flavoring and sweeteners. Tea may impede absorption of iron from fruits and vegetables, but adding lemon/ milk or drinking between meals eliminates this potential problem. Green teas contain the most antioxidants. They help to prevent bladder, breast, lung, stomach, and pancreatic cancers. They also help brain function and may reduce risk of Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and strokes. Many of these benefits come from the catechins in green tea that are more powerful that vitamins C and E in halting oxidative damage to cells. For drinkers of oolong and green tea a 45-65% reduction in hypertension risk has been found when compared to non-drinkers. Oolong can also lower cholesterol and contribute to weight loss. White tea is the tea with the most potent anti-cancer properties. Black tea is high in caffeine, but may prevent lung damage from exposure to cigarette smoke and reduce risk for smoke. Pu-ern black tea has also been found to contribute to weight loss and lower cholesterol. |
- Why it works: Green tea is highly concentrated with epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and caffeine, a duo that works synergistically to boost metabolism and promote fat burning, particularly during exercise.
- Best varieties: Matcha is considered the most potent because you ingest the whole powdered leaf, while Sencha is excellent for daily, gentle metabolism support.
- Recommendation: Drink 2–3 cups daily.
- 2. Oolong Tea (The Fat Burner)
- Why it works: Partially oxidized, oolong tea contains both catechins (from green tea) and theaflavins (from black tea). It has been shown to increase fat burning by up to 12% and specifically helps reduce visceral fat (belly fat).
- Recommendation: A popular choice for a mid-afternoon boost to curb cravings
- Why it works: As the least processed tea, it retains high levels of antioxidants that may help prevent the formation of new fat cells, particularly in the stomach area.
- Recommendation: A delicate, light option that is effective for overall fat loss support.
- Why it works: A fermented Chinese tea often used after heavy meals to aid digestion and reduce fat accumulation. It has been linked to decreased BMI and better lipid profiles.
- Peppermint Tea: The smell of peppermint can act as a natural appetite suppressant. It also aids in digestion and reduces bloating, making you feel lighter.
- Ginger Tea: Known to increase thermogenesis (body heat production) and boost metabolism, it also aids in reducing inflammation.
- Rooibos Tea: Caffeine-free and slightly sweet, this tea can help reduce stress hormones that lead to fat storage and, consequently, reduce food cravings.
- Drink Unsweetened: Adding sugar or cream negates the weight-loss benefits.
- Consistency is Key: A single cup won’t do much; regular daily consumption is necessary to see results.
- Timing: Drink green tea 30-60 minutes before a workout for maximum fat-burning potential, and drink peppermint or ginger after a meal to aid digestion.
- Pair with Lifestyle: Tea is a “supportive teammate” to diet and exercise, not a magic replacement for them.
Copyright @ Dr Rj
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