You’ve probably heard about the amazing benefits of green tea due to its high antioxidant content. It has about a quarter of the caffeine found in a cup of coffee, but it’s less likely to leave you feeling dehydrated. Personally, I enjoy both; I usually kick off my day with a cup of black coffee and then switch to one or two cups of green tea. It’s also a great option in the evenings to curb post-dinner cravings, especially since decaffeinated versions are available. Making a batch and serving it iced is fantastic too—iced green tea with lemon slices is perfect for a hot summer day!
So yes, green tea is fantastic for you. You get that, right? But did you know it can also be a powerful tool for weight loss when used correctly? Today, I’ll discuss how to use green tea for weight loss and how to brew the best cup for that purpose. We’ll also explore a newer type of green tea that’s three times more effective than regular green tea.
Let’s dive into the science behind how green tea aids in weight loss. This post may contain affiliate links, which help keep this content free. Please read our disclosure for more information. Numerous studies have shown that green tea is an excellent fat burner during workouts. In one study, participants burned 17% more fat than those who took a placebo. Drinking green tea or coffee 30 minutes before exercising is ideal for maximizing fat-burning potential.
What sets green tea apart from other beverages is its high levels of antioxidants and catechins, particularly one called EGCG. This compound has been shown to increase daily calorie burn and is beneficial for overall health. EGCG also boosts norepinephrine levels, a hormone that signals fat cells to break down and be used for energy. This process helps mobilize fat more quickly and preserves lean muscle tissue.
Visceral fat, commonly known as abdominal fat, is particularly dangerous and linked to various diseases and even early death. Green tea has been shown not only to help with weight loss but also to reduce fat around the stomach area. The combination of EGCG and caffeine appears to have both short-term and long-term metabolic benefits. In a study involving 60 obese individuals, those taking green tea extract lost an additional 7.3 pounds and burned 183 more calories per day after three months.
There are also several other benefits of green tea beyond weight loss. There are three main ways to consume green tea for weight loss. The first is through herbal extracts derived from green tea leaves, which can provide 25%-50% more antioxidants due to the extraction process. Green tea extract is often available in pill form, making it a convenient option if you’re on the go or don’t enjoy the taste of green tea.
The second method involves traditional green tea bags, which you can find in any grocery store. To prepare it, heat water to just below boiling, add a tea bag, and let it steep for 1-3 minutes before enjoying. This method is easy to drink and contributes to your daily water intake, though it may take longer to prepare than a pill, which can lead to forgetting it. I recommend having it first thing in the morning or after dinner to establish a routine.
The third and best option is matcha tea, which is made through a special shading process in Japan, resulting in three times the amount of EGCG and antioxidants compared to regular green tea. It also has a vibrant green color. The only downsides are that it can be a bit pricier and requires more time to prepare since you need to whisk it yourself. However, with the right tools, it’s manageable, and the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. For the best value, check out the recommended brand on Amazon.
For optimal results, aim to consume green tea three times a day. Before I wrap up, I want to mention our weight loss program, the 21-Day Fat Loss Challenge. If you’re looking to shed pounds and develop long-term healthy eating habits (like incorporating daily green tea!), this program is perfect for you. We have participants aiming to lose 15 pounds, as well as those looking to drop 30, 40, or even 50+ pounds. People of all ages and backgrounds are on this journey together!
The program also includes access to a private support group with over 1,000 members sharing experiences, tips, motivation, accountability, and recipes. If you’re ready to make a change in your life, this is the best place to start. We’ll guide you on how to make lasting changes to your diet and lifestyle that extend beyond the program.
If you enjoyed this article on losing weight with green tea or have any questions, feel free to leave them in the comments below!
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