How does green tea help to reduce weight?

It is scientifically proven that green tea burns extra calories and impedes fat  absorption in human body. Green tea contains an antioxidant called epigallocatechin gallate(EGCG) which stimulates metabolism and that results in weight loss. The combined effect of EGCG and caffeine causes release of fat into the blood stream which the body uses as fuel for various activities.

This process referred to as ‘thermogenesis’ ultimately leads to losing weight. This also helps in another way- by providing more energy to exercise more.

How is green tea different or more effective than other tea varieties

Like green tea, black tea and oolong tea are produced from the same plant, Camellia sinensis. The major difference is that for green tea, leaves are not fermented before steaming and drying. Compared to other varieties, green tea has the highest concentration of catechin polyphenols, which accelerate fat oxidation and thermogenesis.

Right amount of intake for desired results

Making green tea a part of your life is not that difficult. It’s just adding green tea to your daily diet. You can drink green tea instead of tea or coffee, before and after the meals. But in order to get the maximum results you must drink at least four to six cups. If you don’t like the flavor, you can add green tea concentrate to other food items and have it. Green tea capsules and pills are also available in the market.

Other health benefits of green tea

For thousands of years, green tea has been used as a health drink in many parts of the world. Besides aiding weight loss green tea is scientifically proven to reduce high blood pressure, lower blood sugar and cholesterol and fight cancer. Recent studies have shown that catechins- the powerful antioxidants contained in the green tea fight viruses, slow aging and destroy free radicals which cause cancer, heart disease etc.

Side effects

Being a natural product green tea does not cause any serious side effects. But some may have minor problems while the body adjusts to the consumption of green tea, like more frequent visits to the rest room or sleeping troubles for non coffee or tea drinkers in the first one or two weeks.

Finally, you have to remember that only regular exercise and proper diet can help you to make the most out of green tea.