Green Tea and Weight Loss

Boosting Metabolism

Green tea is incredibly high in antioxidants, especially epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which has the ability to stimulate the body's metabolic process. This particularly powerful antioxidant works with caffeine to stimulate the central nervous system and release fat into the blood stream, in order for the body to use the fat as fuel. This particular process is called thermogenesis, which can be caused be caffeine alone, but is even more effective with EGCG and other substances of green tea combined. Thermogenesis results in the production of extra energy, shedding of excess water and burning body fat. It is suggested that green tea, or supplements of green tea extract, may have the ability to accelerate metabolism by up to 4%, which could amount to 100 calories per day.

Enhancing physical performance

Exercise is one of the most effective ways to lose weight, because it not only burns calories but also enhances energy levels and contributes to muscle building, which are all elements that contribute to boosting metabolism. Green tea's caffeine content helps with the boost of metabolism as it mobilises fatty acids from fat tissues and makes them available for energy use. It can also improve endurance through exercise because of its catechin polyphenols that stimulate muscle cells and liver to use more fatty acids. As a result of this, your body will use carbohydrates at a slower rate, meaning your body will have more remaining carbohydrates to allow you to exercise for longer so that you can burn more calories. You can reap these benefits either by drinking green tea on a daily basis, or by adding green tea extract supplements to your daily vitamin intake.