Does Tea Promote Weight Loss?

Many teas claim to be useful in losing weight, and a few are marketed specifically for that purpose. Drinking three or four cups of certain teas per day over a three-month period works as a diet supplement, though the weight loss is less than dramatic.

Types

• The only teas that promote weight loss are those that come form the camellia sinensis plant, mostly identified in the public's mind by color. Green, black and white teas all lead to some weight loss, as does oolong. They are picked at different times in the plant's development and processed differently, creating their distinct tastes and colors. Their effect on weight loss varies slightly, with green and oolong having the greatest effect. All of them work for essentially the same reason.

Process

• Each of these teas boosts the body's energy by burning calories and fats. A study at the University of Geneva in Switzerland showed that green tea elevates the body's energy by 4 percent. All four teas act on the body through the same three substances. The first is caffeine, long known to increase vigor, at least temporarily. The other two are catechins and polyphenols, antioxidants also found in wine, fruit, cocoa, chocolate and some nuts. These antioxidants help the body consume glucose and other sugars, contributing to weight loss. Green tea in particular reduces the amount of fat the body absorbs and stores.

  These teas vary in the amount of antioxidants they contain. Green tea has more catechins, oolong more polyphenols, but the weight loss caused by each of them is comparable.

Benefits

• Weight loss is good for lowering blood pressure and controlling diabetes. Catechins are used in some herbal remedies and supplements for type 2 diabetics, and studies in Japan have linked green tea to lower blood glucose levels.

Warnings

• Herbal teas that specifically promote weight loss often contain laxatives such as rhubarb, frugula and aloe, leading to dehydration and diarrhea. Weight loss brought on by these types of diet teas is temporary. Sugar-free teas listed as diet on the label, including popular diet green teas, do not have these side effects, nor do herbal teas that are not marketed for the purpose of losing weight.

Conclusion

• Certain teas help with minor weight loss, but are no substitute for a healthy diet and exercise. They are more beneficial to dieting than other drinks, especially those high in sugar or fat content. Teas are most effective as diet aids if served without milk or sugar. Drink green or oolong tea before working out because they give the body extra energy and help the body by burning additional fat.