Herbal teas are soothing beverages that may benefit your health. They are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and plant compounds, and offer a range of benefits, from improving digestion to boosting metabolism. Choosing the right herbal tea can enhance your weight loss journey by curbing cravings, aiding digestion, and increasing fat-burning processes. Replacing sugary drinks with these natural infusions can be a simple yet effective step toward a healthier lifestyle.
Herbal teas harness the goodness of various medicinal plants to support health and wellness. According to Dr Swathi Ramamurthy, Head of Research and Development, Purely Yours, different herbal teas can boost your well-being. “Green tea, known for its high catechin content, helps boost metabolism and improve fat oxidation," she adds.
Furthermore, peppermint tea aids digestion and reduces bloating, making it a great post-meal drink. Fennel tea acts as a natural appetite suppressant, helping to control cravings. “Chamomile tea promotes relaxation, reducing stress-related eating and improving sleep quality, both essential for maintaining a healthy weight” says Dr. Ramamurthy, adding that "herbal teas contain bioactive compounds that stimulate metabolism, boost digestion, and support detoxification.”
Also read | How to lower high blood pressure naturally: Add these simple herbs to your healthy diet for quick results
Boosts metabolism: Teas like green tea and oolong tea are rich in catechins and flavonoids that enhance thermogenesis, increasing the body's calorie-burning ability.
Suppresses appetite: Herbal infusions such as fennel and ginger tea promote satiety, reducing unnecessary snacking and calorie intake.
Aids digestion: Teas like peppermint, chamomile, and dandelion improve gut health, minimise bloating, and support proper digestion, all of which are crucial for weight loss.
Detoxifies the body: Natural diuretics like dandelion, nettle, and ginger tea help flush out toxins and excess water, aiding in weight management.
Also read | Haldi doodh, herbal teas, soups and more: Must-have drinks to beat winter’s common illnesses
Reduces stress-related weight gain:
Stress can trigger cravings and overeating. Calming herbal teas like chamomile, ashwagandha, and valerian root help lower cortisol levels, reducing stress-induced weight gain.
Dr Ramamurthy suggests herbal teas for weight loss:
Green tea: Rich in antioxidants, particularly catechins, green tea boosts fat oxidation and improves metabolic rate. Studies suggest that its active compound, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), works alongside caffeine to increase energy expenditure and fat burning. Drinking green tea in the morning or before exercise may help maximise these benefits.
Peppermint tea: Known for its natural appetite-suppressing properties, peppermint tea helps reduce cravings by promoting satiety. It also soothes the digestive system, alleviating bloating and indigestion, which can contribute to a flatter stomach and better gut health.
Hibiscus tea: High in antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins and polyphenols, hibiscus tea supports fat metabolism and inhibits the production of amylase, an enzyme that breaks down carbohydrates into sugar. This helps regulate blood sugar levels, preventing spikes that can lead to fat storage and cravings.
Chamomile tea: Helps manage stress-related eating by promoting relaxation and better sleep. Chamomile contains apigenin, an antioxidant that binds to receptors in the brain, reducing anxiety and improving sleep quality. Since poor sleep is linked to weight gain and hormonal imbalances, drinking chamomile tea before bed can support a healthy metabolism and prevent late-night snacking.
Remember to maintain balance:
While herbal teas can be a great addition to a weight loss plan, they work best alongside a balanced diet and regular exercise. “Moderation is key, as excessive consumption may cause digestive discomfort or interact with certain medications,” Dr. Ramamurthy advises. By drinking herbal teas mindfully, you can enjoy their natural benefits while supporting your health and weight loss goals.
Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
