In the realm of holistic well-being, the importance of gut health has garnered increasing attention, with a focus on addressing issues like bloating, belly fat, and inflammation. A growing awareness of the profound connection between gut health and overall vitality has led to the exploration of gut-friendly drinks as potential remedies.
We spoke with Krutika Nanavati, a registered dietitian and nutritionist; registered dietitian Bri Bell; and Dr. Harsh Sheth, to learn about two gut-healthy beverages you can sip on to aid in bloating, shed belly fat, and reduce inflammation. They revealed that ginger tea and peppermint tea are some of the best options.
Ginger Tea
Ginger tea emerges as a potent elixir in the realm of gut health, offering multifaceted benefits that extend beyond mere flavor. Renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger tea aids in soothing digestive discomfort, effectively reducing bloating and promoting a calmer stomach. Moreover, the thermogenic nature of ginger stimulates metabolism, making it a valuable ally in the quest to trim belly fat.
"Ginger possesses anti-inflammatory and carminative properties, known to soothe the digestive tract and potentially reduce gas and bloating," Nanavati says. She further adds that "ginger's anti-inflammatory effect can relax stomach muscles and ease bloating discomfort. Research suggests ginger might improve satiety and boost metabolism, potentially contributing to weight management."
Peppermint Tea
Renowned for its ability to relax the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract, peppermint tea aids in alleviating bloating and discomfort, fostering a sense of ease in the stomach. Additionally, the tea's natural menthol content provides a cooling effect, which can contribute to reduced inflammation. As a low-calorie and caffeine-free option, peppermint tea is an excellent choice for those aiming to trim belly fat while promoting overall digestive health.
"The menthol in peppermint acts as a natural muscle relaxant, relieving spasms in the gastrointestinal tract. [It's] often used to alleviate irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms, including bloating," says Dr. Sheth. He recommends to "use dried peppermint leaves or tea bags and infuse them in hot water."
"Peppermint tea is a relaxing herbal tea that has anti inflammatory properties," Bri Bell adds on. "It is naturally caffeine free and is not a diuretic, so won't make you have to pee in the middle of the night any more than plain water, unlike some other teas like dandelion root tea."
