Green tea is called the drink of longevity, but now scientists are confident: its natural compounds can indeed improve metabolism.
A study published in the journal Cell Biochemistry & Function has shown that green tea extract not only accelerates weight loss but also protects muscles from degradation.
Tea 'Reprograms' Metabolism
A group of experts led by Professor Rosemary Otton conducted a 16-week experiment. Laboratory mice were placed on a calorie-rich diet high in fats and sugars.
By week 4, the rodents were divided into groups: one continued to receive fatty food, while the other began to receive green tea extract at a dose of 500 mg per kilogram of body weight, which is equivalent to about 3 cups of the beverage per day for a human.
The results showed that:
- the subjects lost weight without losing muscle tissue;
- metabolism accelerated;
- blood sugar and fat levels normalized.
The Secret of Tea Lies in Its Composition
Scientists linked the effects of green tea to its catechin content—antioxidants that enhance thermogenesis (natural calorie burning) and increase tissue sensitivity to insulin.
Additionally, the extract activates the production of adiponectin, a hormone that promotes fat breakdown and reduces inflammation.
Interestingly, in lean animals, tea did not trigger weight loss but simply helped maintain a 'golden mean.' This suggests that the drink's effect is only manifested in conditions of nutrient excess, making it safe for slim individuals.
According to Otton, while the data cannot be directly transferred to humans, regular consumption of green tea is a safe way to gently stimulate metabolism.
