Green tea has for long been associated with weight loss. Every tea or coffee lover has at least once tried to switch to the healthier alternative that is green tea. However, we have also heard some floating myths about it not really working.
How exactly are green tea and weight loss connected and can it really help you lose weight?
Unfortunately, there is no straight answer to this question. While some people gave positive reviews about green tea in weight loss, others thought it really didnt make a difference.
We may not have a yes or no answer to your question. However, we do have certain facts about green tea that will surely give you some clarity. Its time to clear out the myths and focus on the reality!
Green tea is basically tea that has not undergone any oxidation processes. Its very first variety originated in China, but its production is now spread across the world. It is made from Camellia sinensis leaves and has been used for centuries in India and China for its health benefits.
Now that we know a little bit about what is green tea, lets discuss its role in helping weight loss.
A lot of the connection between green tea and weight loss comes from the fact that it helps in improving your metabolic rate. Well, a number of studies suggest that it does. Metabolic rate is basically the rate at which you spend energy.
Myths: It increases your metabolic rate and hence helps in faster weight loss.
Reality: If you have suddenly lost or gained a lot of weight, that is when your metabolic rate will fluctuate and you will need some green tea to help you out. For people who havent had any drastic changes in weight, metabolic rate is already mostly stable. Also, it is caffeine (in the tea) that is helping the metabolic rate, i.e. drinking coffee could do the same trick.
If you want to drink green tea to help lose weight, you surely can explore that, but that's NOT enough. We just discussed how green tea may help in improving the metabolic rate and hence your metabolism and hence 'aid' weight loss, but what it does not do is cut the fat.
Myths: More the merrier!
Reality: That is so not the case. As little as 2 cups per day is all that you need. In some cases, too much green tea is known to cause digestive problems and severe stomach aches. Lets not forget that too much caffeine is never good for your body.
If you thought that green tea has only one variety, you are wrong. From Matcha Green Tea to Oolong Tea, there are quite some varieties. Does it matter which variety you choose for weight loss? Lets find out!
Myths: It matters which variety you choose.
Reality: It actually does! Choose Matcha Green Tea if you are drinking green tea to be healthier. Here the whole tea leaf is ground to be consumed as part of the tea (unlike the usual method of straining the tea).
Green tea is considered as one of the healthiest varieties of tea by many. In fact, it was used in making medicines in China and India. We already know the benefits of green tea for weight loss. But does it have more health benefits?
Myths: It is known to be helpful in cases of cancer, diabetes, brain function and cardiovascular diseases.
Reality: It absolutely is! Apart from the benefits of green tea in weight loss, its called a healthy option for other reasons too. Its highly rich in biocompounds and antioxidants, which help your body in many ways.
Green tea and weight loss are definitely related, but not in a linear way as most people assume. However, green tea alone cannot magically make you lose weight. You will have to maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine for it to work in the best way. It is a very healthy option to add to your diet, but health doesnt always mean weight loss. We mean healthy in an overall way!
Let us know in the comments if you have tried green tea for weight loss and whether it worked or not.
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Does Green Tea Actually Help In Weight Loss: Myths Vs.Reality - MensXP.com