Weight loss is popular the world over. People spend large sums of money on gyms, diet plans and most recently, slimming teas. These claim to provide a painless, quick way to shed those unwanted kilos. But do they really work or is it a marketing gimmick?
The reason these teas have gained traction is because of their claim to help users lose weight quickly. Indeed, some people have lost weight instantly after drinking certain teas. But soon after they gain back the weight since they lost water weight and solid waste.
How exactly do slimming teas lead to weight loss? They suppress appetite, stimulate the body to burn more calories and release toxins. However, there’s little actual scientific evidence that they have significant effects on weight loss. Let’s look at the real facts.
These teas contain diuretics (substances that encourage the production & release of urine). This is how people lose water weight. Too much release of urine leads to dehydration, muscle cramps, diarrhoea, loss of electrolytes and fluctuation of weight when you drink fluids.
Guarana is another popular ingredient of slimming teas. Its caffeine content may cause stomach irritation, nervousness, headache, restlessness, nausea, ringing in the ears, vomiting, anxiety, agitation, and fast heart & breathing rates.
Some teas contain a natural laxative called senna. Increased trips to the loo might register lower weight on the scale, but you’re only losing the weight of solid waste. When you eat and the food is digested, the weight comes back. Senna can cause side effects such as worsening constipation, nausea, weakened colon, low potassium levels and cramps.
The ‘slimming’ ingredients in these teas don’t really detox as they claim. Natural teas such as oolong, white, green and black contain natural antioxidants which boost the body’s detox functions.
There’s no shortcut to losing weight, people. Maintain a healthy diet and an active lifestyle. You don’t necessarily need to join a gym. Walking, hiking, house chores and swimming are great alternatives, just pick an activity that you enjoy and it won’t feel like a workout at all.
