Green tea, one of three types of Camellia sinensis leaves, is commonly consumed for weight loss due to its caffeine content. Clinical studies have shown it to be effective for weight loss and reducing cholesterol and blood pressure. It also has potential health benefits for Alzheimer’s disease and as an antibacterial, immunostimulant, and antiviral.
The green tea diet generally consists of consuming the beverage in drink and capsule form. Legend has it that it was first consumed in 2737 BC when the Emperor of China boiled water to drink and green tea leaves fell into the pot. The resulting tea smelled and tasted refreshing. Buddhist monks are also part of the history of green tea because they are said to have brought leaves to Japan from China in 800 AD.
Green tea is one of the three types of leaves in the Camellia sinensis family. The other two types are oolong and black. Black tea is oxidized and dried, while oolong leaves are only partially oxidized before drying.
Green tea leaves are typically steamed and then dried. All forms of Camellia sinensis contain caffeine, which may be why the green tea diet is effective for weight loss. Decaffeinated tea leaves tend to have less effect than caffeinated ones.
Caffeine increases the heart rate. The green tea diet commonly consists of consuming the tea daily and therefore consuming caffeine. When the heart rate is increased, additional energy is needed to maintain basic body functions. If the diet restricts carbohydrates for rapid energy production, the cells can convert fat into energy and increase weight loss in the process.
Weight loss is a common use for a green tea diet. Unlike many other herbal weight loss remedies, green tea has been clinically tested and shown to increase weight loss. A study conducted in Scotland asked participants to consume 600 to 800 mg of catechins through a diet of green tea, daily for 14 days. The results showed an average body weight reduction of 2.11 pounds (0.96 kg).
The same study showed other potential health benefits of a green tea diet. These included the reduction of total cholesterol, systolic blood pressure, and diastolic blood pressure. According to a study published by the Journal of the American College of Nutrition, green tea may also reduce the risks of cardiovascular disease and cancer. Future studies are required to assess the potential benefits of a green tea diet based on lifestyle and environmental factors.
This diet can be effective for more than just weight loss in other ways, too. Studies have shown that green tea is an effective antibacterial, immunostimulant, and antiviral. A British study showed that a green tea diet inhibited acetylcholinesterase, butyrylcholinesterase, and beta secretase. These chemicals are responsible for dampening brain messengers and depositing the protein and plaque deposits associated with Alzheimer’s disease symptoms.
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