Tea & Slimming
Discover how the best green tea for weight loss and other teas can gently support healthy weight management, without miracle promises.
Does tea help you lose weight?
Numerous studies have examined the impact of tea, particularly green tea, on weight regulation. Published in 2020, a meta-analysis (compilation of existing studies) of controlled trials concludes that green tea supplementation significantly alters obesity indices (weight, body mass index, waist circumference) within 12 weeks, and concluded that combining green tea with a healthy, balanced diet and regular exercise is beneficial in the management of obesity. Previous studies had already observed beneficial effects on weight reduction, metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes with tea consumption of 3 to 4 cups per day.
The mechanisms explaining this link between tea and weight are not yet fully understood. However, researchers have observed (or suspect) several effects linked to significant tea consumption. Firstly, tea reduces appetite by increasing the secretion of hormones such as dopamine and noradrenaline. Secondly, it reduces the assimilation (i.e. absorption) of fats and carbohydrates (sugars) in the intestine and, through this same mechanism, contributes to better regulation of insulin levels, the storage hormone. It also acts directly on the body’s fat reserves by oxidising fats and reducing the number of cells in which they are stored (adipocytes). Finally, recent studies suggest that it may have a positive impact on the composition of the intestinal bacterial flora, which is now known to play a central role in weight regulation.
This impact is thought to be linked to the presence of caffeine, but also to the high antioxidant content of tea, particularly catechins, and above all to the synergy between the two.
What is the best fat-burning tea?
Green tea is the tea that has been most extensively studied for its beneficial effects on weight loss: its consumption is linked to a reduction in body fat and weight. As it is not fermented, it is the colour of tea with the highest catechin content, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG, a powerful antioxidant that is thought to have the strongest impact, particularly on fat oxidation).
Does green tea promote weight loss?
According to a wide range of studies, drinking at least four cups of green tea per day contributes to weight loss, provided that it is accompanied by healthy lifestyle choices (a balanced diet and physical exercise). Thanks to the combined effects of caffeine and polyphenols, particularly catechins, on metabolism and appetite, it can help reduce energy intake, burn more calories, break down fat and reduce waist size.
