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Peppermint is an herb known for its ability to soothe an upset stomach. It’s also great for improving digestion. Although it’s zero calories when brewed without sugar, if you are drinking it several times per day, it may be the cause of your weight gain.
Peppermint is a popular flavor used as a flavoring in breath mints, candies and other foods. It’s a go-to favorite for a refreshing, caffeine-free tea.
How can a zero-calorie herb cause you to gain weight? Peppermint tea is very good for you but it can increase your appetite by making your digestion processes perfect. It’s a known appetite stimulant. It’s often used to help patients who suffer from a decrease in appetite due to indigestion or nausea to increase hunger.
Peppermint contains compounds that help soothe antispasmodic effects in the digestive tract. This, in turn, gets your digestive system moving. The end result is you are hungrier. Although more research is needed to be conclusive, one study on mice showed that mice given peppermint extracts gained more weight than the control group.
If you do not need to gain weight, hold off on the peppermint tea before meals. Only drink it when you need gastrointestinal relief or after a heavy meal. If you like to sip on peppermint tea in between meals, try swapping it out with lemon water to help cleanse your palate and settle your stomach.
