Green tea has recently been dubbed “nature’s Ozempic” in viral TikTok videos, sparking widespread claims about its weight loss benefits. While green tea has long been touted as a dietary aid, with numerous diet books and meal plans featuring it, the scientific evidence supporting its role in weight management is more nuanced.
Green Tea and Weight Loss: The Science
Green tea’s potential weight loss benefits are attributed to two main components: caffeine and antioxidants. Dr. Jyotsna Ghosh, an obesity medicine specialist at Johns Hopkins University, notes that while caffeine in green tea can temporarily boost metabolism, it is unlikely to lead to significant weight loss on its own.
Antioxidants and Metabolism:
Green tea is rich in polyphenols, particularly catechins, which are antioxidants believed to protect cells from damage and reduce inflammation. Some animal studies and cell research suggest these antioxidants might enhance metabolism and decrease fat absorption in the gut. However, human trials have yielded mixed results, and the impact on weight loss remains uncertain.
Green Tea and GLP-1 Production:
Another claim circulating online is that green tea boosts the production of GLP-1, a gut hormone involved in regulating hunger and insulin release. While green tea might have a minor effect on GLP-1 levels, experts like Dr. Ghosh argue that the impact is likely minimal compared to the broader range of factors influencing weight management.
Expert Opinions:
Julia Zumpano, a registered dietitian at the Cleveland Clinic, emphasizes that focusing on individual foods or drinks can overlook the many factors affecting weight loss. Instead, she advises a holistic approach that includes improving overall lifestyle habits such as diet, exercise, and sleep quality.
Health Recommendations:
According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, green tea is generally safe for consumption, with up to eight cups per day considered acceptable. However, the center notes that green tea extracts have not been proven to produce substantial weight loss or help in maintaining weight loss in adults who are overweight or obese.
Conclusion:
While green tea offers several health benefits and can be part of a balanced diet, its role in weight loss should be viewed with caution. Sustainable weight management is best achieved through a comprehensive approach that includes dietary changes, physical activity, and lifestyle adjustments, rather than relying on any single food or supplement.
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