Green tea is picking up speed in the world of caffeinated beverages. Could replacing that morning cup of java with a watery, grassy-tasting brew actually be beneficial to your health?
The Advantages Of Green Tea, Can It Boost Metabolism?
Proponents of green tea cite that the reduced caffeine content, half that of coffee, is in itself enough reason to switch. Green tea has also been reported to help fight cancer with its antioxidant properties.
Some claim that drinking green tea can boost your metabolism by increasing a process called thermogenesis, that is the process of your body burning calories. The reported increase was a measly 4%, but not bad for something that requires so little effort on the dieter's part. To increase metabolism, proponents recommend drinking green tea with meals or increasing your green tea intake to six to ten cups per day. While the proof of green tea's ability to increase metabolism and burn off fat is inconclusive, many coffee shops and restaurants are now offering green tea as an alternative to coffee and black tea.
The Difference Between Green And Black Tea
Green tea is derived from the same plant as black tea but is not fermented but steamed and then dried. This process causes a distinct taste that some describe as a bitter, grassy taste. Adding cream, sugar or honey to green tea is not recommended as this may interfere with the antioxidant benefits of the tea.
The Asian "Secret"
The Asian population has preferred green tea for centuries. Some studies report that Asians as a whole have fewer incidences of obesity and heart disease. The conclusion that this results from green tea consumption may be a stretch considering the multitude of factors that contribute to obesity and heart disease.
If you find that you cannot stomach the unusual taste but still desire the health benefits and possible boost in metabolism that comes from green tea consumption, despair not. Green tea extract is available in capsule form and can even be consumed with your morning coffee, if you so desire.
Many products claim to be miracle diet boosters and even to burn fat while you sleep. Fad diets abound and change with the wind. It can be confusing to the person honestly seeking to lose weight. The general rule of thumb is to stick closely to nature and allow your body to correct itself. Following this principle, adding green tea to boost metabolism may be beneficial. The good news is that there are reported little side effects from switching to green tea.
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