Green Tea As an Appetite Suppressant
Green tea is a popular beverage around the world for its many health benefits. It is known to have antioxidant, antiviral, and antimicrobial properties. In recent years, it has also been studied for its effects as an appetite suppressant.
A Review of Literature on Green Tea and Appetite Suppression
A review of literature published in 2017 suggests that green tea might be able to aid in obesity management by decreasing food intake. A number of animal studies have shown that green tea acts as an appetite suppressant, including:
- A 2005 study in rats found that green tea extract decreased food intake and body mass.
- A 2012 study in mice found that green tea extract reduced body weight.
- A 2017 study in rats showed that green tea extract decreased food intake and body weight.
In addition, several human studies have indicated that green tea may be effective for reducing body weight, body fat, and waist circumference.
Potential Mechanisms of Appetite Suppression
The exact mechanisms of action by which green tea may suppress appetite are not yet well understood. The catechin compounds found in green tea may be responsible for some of the appetite suppression effects, as catechins have been shown to affect gut hormones and inhibit the digestion and absorption of dietary fats.
Safety and Side Effects
In general, green tea is considered to be safe when consumed in moderate amounts. However, drinking too much green tea may cause side effects such as insomnia, headaches, irritability, and dizziness. Those who are pregnant or nursing should avoid green tea because of its caffeine content.
Conclusion
Green tea has long been prized for its many health benefits, and recent research has indicated that it may also be an effective appetite suppressant. Animal studies have demonstrated a decrease in food intake and body weight, and several human trials have shown a decrease in body fat, waist circumference, and other measures of obesity. The exact mechanisms of action by which green tea suppresses appetite are not yet well understood, though the catechin compounds in green tea may play a role. Green tea is generally considered to be safe when consumed in moderate amounts, though it may cause side effects such as insomnia, headaches, irritability, and dizziness when consumed in excess.
