Green Tea Extract-- How it Works


By Elizabeth Myers, RD

Green tea extract is developed from the leaves of camellia sinensis, the plant from which black, green, and oolong teas are made. Green tea extract has long been associated with several health benefits, such as treating headaches, lowering cancer rates, improving overall health, and increasing life expectancy. A lot of these claims are maintained by initial scientific research but the scientific population wants to make it clear that continued research is needed.

Green tea extract is a common ingredient in many weight loss supplements known as “fat burners” because green tea extract is supposed to increase thermogenesis and aid in the metabolism of fat; however, it does not increase your heart rate so you shouldn’t get the jitters from using this product.

How It Works

The active ingredient in green tea extract is Epigallocatechin Gallate, usually abbreviated as EGCG. It is a type of antioxidant called a catechin. A small study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition indicates that EGCG may increase metabolic rate, meaning it helps you burn more calories.

Green tea may also have other health benefits. Because of its antioxidant properties, green tea extract may assist in protecting cellular membranes against the damaging effects of too many free radicals, and thereby warding off certain types of cancers. It is supposedly up to 100 times stronger than that of vitamins E or C.

When taken as a dietary supplement, the recommended dose is 1 or 2 capsules/day at meals. Of course it depends on where you purchase this product, but the price of a 360-capsule bottle is approximately $30.00 at most retailers.

Sources



Last updated: 10/06/2008

How To Lose Weight

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Weight Loss Methods

Losing weight isn’t always an easy task, and there are so many different methods to losing weight that it can be hard at times. You have to look at the different variations of weight loss. 

Take exercise for instance. Even though it may be hard getting into the rhythm of it, there is no doubt it is crucial to having that body we all desire. So stop making excuses and just get up and do it! Whether you prefer to be at home, or the gym, just focus on your goals and why you are doing this to begin with.  Having that sense of motivation will help a lot in the process of losing weight.

Eating less can contribute to weight loss this is such a simple task as well. Take what it is you have in one day, and cut out all of the snacks. If you were to reduce what you in one day to just meals, then you would probably cut out a good 400-500 calories. All those chips, chocolate bars, and sweets should be cut out. Now I am not saying eliminate the snacks for good, and of course it is good to indulge once in a while, but just remember that moderation is key. Keep in mind though, because you are cutting your snacks you shouldn’t fill up your plate with 2 cups of spaghetti either. Cut what you would normally eat in half, and you will notice a significant difference in no time.

Going to yoga classes or meditating can help out as well. Your body will be more at ease, and you will be teaching yourself how to calm down in an effective manner. This will ultimately reduce any negative feeling or thoughts that you may have.

Stress plays a big part for weight gain because you tend to crave sweets and junk food more. A good idea would be to speak with someone about ways you can de-stress. Doing as much as talking to someone could help out a lot in the end, and you should never feel embarrassed to do so. There are millions of people who struggle with their weight, and a lot of it is contributed to stress related factors. Many don’t realise that it takes an hour of your time to just talk about it.

In the end you need to find your balance. If you are the type of person that gets stressed easily then you should probably consider yoga. If you like challenges then join a gym or even do some intense workouts. Whatever it is that you choose, the decision is up to you. Just make sure to find one that will be effective for your weight loss goals.

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