Green Tea for Weight Loss

Green tea is becoming more popular due to the variety of potential health benefits attributed to its consumption.  These health benefits are frequently linked to the major phytochemical found in green tea, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which makes up about 65% of the green tea catechin content.  Previous research in animals and people suggest that green tea might aid with weight loss efforts by suppressing appetite, increasing body metabolism, and decreasing fat absorption.  A new study examined the impact of green tea on fat oxidation.

In this new study, weight loss researchers studied 10 overweight or obese men in a randomized, controlled trial.  The men in the study had an average BMI = 31 and were assigned to take either (1) 300 mg EGCG, (2) 600 mg EGCG, (3) 200 mg caffeine, (4) 300 mg EGCG + 200 mg caffeine, or (5) a placebo for 3 days.  After 3 days, energy expenditure and fat oxidation were measured after an overnight fast and after consumption of a standardized meal.  The study results showed that during the first 2 hours after consuming the meal:

• Taking 300 mg of EGCG increased fat oxidation by 33%
• The higher dose of EGCG (600 mg) only increased fat oxidation by 20%, which was not different than the control placebo.
• Caffeine increased fat oxidation by about 34%, similar to the low dose of EGCG.
• Combining 300 mg EGCG with 200 mg Caffeine increased fat oxidation by about 50%, though this was not statistically different than EGCG or caffeine alone.

This new weight loss study suggests that increasing fat oxidation after a meal might be another way in which green tea might help with weight loss.  A typical cup of regular, brewed green tea can contain about 100 - 200 mg of EGCG, so based on the results of this new study one would have to consume at least 3 cups of green tea per day to see fat oxidation benefits.  With the current popularity of green tea, one can find all sorts of drinks that contain the green tea EGCG.  However, it has been reported that many of these drinks contain pretty low levels of EGCG, so aim for products that provide adequate EGCG levels.

Based on this and previous research, green tea might make a good weight loss choice in combination with regular physical activity and a healthy diet program.  My Slim and Beautiful diet plan is an easy way to lose get rid of those unwanted pounds.