Green tea has been known to have several health benefits including fighting against cancer, heart disease and other conditions. In recent years, researchers have come across evidence that suggests it may also fight fat. So how exactly does green tea burn fat?

Researchers claim that green tea possesses a special substance that may stimulate the body to reduce fat, triggering weight loss. It may also stimulate the body to burn more calories, an important factor for losing weight. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition provides a detailed analysis of the study.

Green tea is derived from the Camellia sinensis plant. It contains catechins, a rich substance that has anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. The same substance may have an effect on how body fat is accumulated as well as cholesterol levels.

Green Tea Fat Burning Study

In the study that was conducted, which included a multi-age group of men, they drank different types of teas for up to 3 months. The teas may have been fortified with green tea extract and catechins with different levels of each. The men ate identical foods and controlled their calorie intake during the 3 month period. At the end of the 3 months, the men who consumed the green tea extract lost about 5 pounds compared to 3 pounds for the men whose drinks didn't have the extract. There were also changes in their waist sizes and BMI. Cholesterol levels were also reduced.

The overall result of the study shows that catechins have an impact on the prevention and improvement of certain diseases and lifestyles. It may have a bigger impact on the effects of obesity. Other ingredients associated with green tea include epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), vitamins such as A, B1 and K, magnesium, copper and zinc. The EGCG helps to dissolve excess fat that passes through the body and prevents fat buildup. Caffeine is also in green tea which helps the body release fat that is stored so it can be converted into energy.

Green Tea Benefits Available In Many Forms

Since the discovery of green tea and its healthy benefits, it has become available in different forms. Aside from the most common form of tea, such as a tea bag, it is available as an extract which is a concentrated liquid form. The extract is great for adding it to different foods and beverages.

Additionally, there are green tea diet pills that are available in a capsule form and make for a convenient dietary supplement for those wanting to lose weight. Green tea is also available as a gum or mint. The gum may be infused with other flavors so the green tea taste isn't the only flavor present. The mint form allows you to ingest the properties slowly.

The bottom line – does green tea burn fat? Research suggests it does, but how the effects work on your body may pose different results. It helps to research green tea and its properties more closely so that you can fully understand its affects in weight loss. Using a green tea supplement may help improve how your body burns fat and drinking green tea is safe for most people. Discuss questions or concerns with your doctor or pharmacist.