Intermittent fasting (IF) is a popular weight loss and health improvement method that involves cycling between periods of eating and fasting. During the fasting periods, your body goes into a state of ketosis, where it burns fat for energy instead of glucose.
Tea is a great beverage to drink during IF for a number of reasons. First, it is calorie-free and contains no sugar, so it will not break your fast. Second, tea contains compounds that have been shown to boost metabolism, promote weight loss, and improve overall health.
Here are some of the health benefits of tea that can be beneficial for intermittent fasting:
Increased metabolism: Studies have shown that drinking tea can boost metabolism by up to 4%. This can help you burn more calories throughout the day, even during your fasting periods.
Weight loss: Several studies have shown that drinking tea can help with weight loss. In one study, people who drank green tea for 12 weeks lost an average of 2.4 pounds more than those who did not drink tea.
Improved heart health: Tea contains compounds that have been shown to improve heart health. For example, green tea contains catechins, which have been shown to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Lower risk of type 2 diabetes: Tea can also help lower the risk of type 2 diabetes. Studies have shown that people who drink tea regularly have a lower risk of developing the disease.
Protection against cancer: Tea contains compounds that have been shown to have anti-cancer properties. For example, green tea contains EGCG, which has been shown to inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
So, which teas are best for intermittent fasting?
Any type of tea is fine to drink during IF, as long as it is unsweetened. However, some teas may offer more health benefits than others. Green tea, black tea, and oolong tea are all good choices, as they contain high levels of catechins. Herbal teas can also be a good option, as they are often caffeine-free and contain a variety of beneficial compounds.
Here are some of the best teas for intermittent fasting:
Green tea: Green tea is one of the most popular teas in the world and is known for its many health benefits. It is a good source of catechins, which have been shown to boost metabolism, promote weight loss, and improve heart health.
Black tea: Black tea is another type of tea that is high in catechins. It also contains caffeine, which can help boost energy levels and improve focus.
Oolong tea: Oolong tea is a type of tea that is partially oxidized, which gives it a unique flavour and aroma. It is also a good source of catechins and caffeine.
Herbal teas: Herbal teas are made from a variety of plants and flowers and do not contain caffeine. They are a good choice for people who are sensitive to caffeine or who want to avoid it altogether. Some popular herbal teas for intermittent fasting include chamomile tea, ginger tea, and peppermint tea.
How to drink tea during intermittent fasting:
The best way to drink tea during intermittent fasting is to drink it plain, without any added sugar or milk. You can also add a small amount of honey or stevia to sweeten your tea, but be sure to do so in moderation.
It is also important to drink tea throughout the day, especially during your fasting periods. This will help you stay hydrated and satisfied, and it may also help boost your metabolism and promote weight loss.
If you are new to intermittent fasting, it is a good idea to start by drinking unsweetened tea during your fasting periods and gradually increase your intake as you become more comfortable with the diet.
Overall, tea is a healthy and refreshing beverage that can be enjoyed during intermittent fasting. It is calorie-free, contains no sugar, and is packed with beneficial compounds that can boost metabolism, promote weight loss, and improve overall health.