Sipping on green tea may be more than just a comforting daily ritual—it could also be a simple way to support a healthier body and a flatter belly. According to board-certified MD Dr. Sood, green tea offers several key benefits that make it a powerful addition to your routine.
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Boosts Metabolism and Supports Weight Management
One of the top reasons Dr. Sood recommends green tea is its metabolism-boosting properties. “Several studies have shown green tea can help accelerate weight loss by boosting metabolism by as much as 3 to 4%, even at rest,” he explains. Drinking green tea between meals may help your body burn calories more efficiently and support fat loss over time.
Packed With Antioxidants and Heart-Healthy Compounds
Green tea is rich in antioxidants, which help your body fight off harmful free radicals that contribute to aging and inflammation. Dr. Sood notes that the catechins in green tea also improve cholesterol levels by lowering LDL, or “bad” cholesterol, and triglycerides. These effects make green tea a heart-healthy beverage that can support overall wellness and a slimmer midsection.
How to Maximize the Benefits
For optimal results, experts recommend drinking green tea between meals rather than with food. This timing may help your body absorb its beneficial compounds more effectively without interfering with nutrient absorption from your meals.
Bottom Line
Incorporating a few cups of green tea into your daily routine could support metabolism, protect your body from oxidative stress, and improve cholesterol levels—all contributing to a healthier body and a flatter belly. While it’s not a magic solution, making green tea a consistent habit is a small change with potentially significant benefits.
When choosing the right green tea, it’s important to consider both quality and your personal preferences. Start by deciding whether you prefer loose-leaf tea or tea bags—loose-leaf tends to have a fresher, more complex flavor since it’s made from whole leaves, while tea bags are more convenient for quick brewing.
If you want a nutrient-packed option, matcha is an excellent choice; it’s made from finely ground whole tea leaves, meaning you consume all the antioxidants and amino acids, resulting in a rich, earthy taste and a gentle energy boost.
Look for organic green tea whenever possible to avoid pesticide residues and ensure cleaner cultivation practices. Pay attention to origin too—Japanese varieties like Sencha or Gyokuro are known for their delicate, grassy notes, while Chinese teas like Dragon Well (Longjing) offer a nuttier, more mellow flavor.
Ultimately, the best green tea for you depends on your taste preferences, how you plan to prepare it, and how much effort you want to put into your tea ritual.
