It seems like we can’t stop hearing about lemon water these days. The trendy health craze is all over, and wellness experts near and far are raving about the supposed weight loss benefits of the drink.
However, it doesn’t seem like science is quite on their side. Although water can keep you hydrated, and lemon contains a variety of important nutrients, there is no proof that the combo is effective when it comes to losing weight.
That being said, there are a few drinks you can consume instead that might boost your chances of weight loss. Lemon water may not be the choice for you, but consider consuming these five drinks that are more likely able to help you slim down.
1. Coffee
That’s right — your favorite morning beverage is more than just a soothing ritual in the morning. A study from the journal Nutrition and Metabolism found that drinking coffee before a workout can help increase the breakdown of fat in your body.
Coffee also acts as an appetite suppressant, which can help prevent you from overeating — although that doesn’t mean you should ever drink it instead of eating real food!
2. Tea
Tea is a great choice when it comes to weight loss. According to a study in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition, participants who drank four coups of green tea for eight weeks decreased their body weight and body mass index more than people who just drank water.
Green tea contains flavonoids called catechins that promote weight loss by increasing the amount of energy your body uses. Black tea contains it own set of flavonoids, theaflavins and thearubigins, that support weight loss as well.
3. A Glass Of Red Wine
First coffee, now wine? According to research from Oregon State University, dark red grapes contain ellagic acid, a chemical that slows the growth of existing fat cells and the formation of new ones.
Ellagic acid also boosts the metabolism of fatty acids in liver cells, which can help manage obesity and other related metabolic disorders such as fatty liver. Just stick to one glass per day, and you’re good to go.
4. Turmeric Latte
You may not be familiar with the drink, but many healthy foodies have been whipping together their own turmeric teas or lattes. Turmeric, a yellow, anti-inflammatory spice, contains a substance called curcumin, which can help promote weight loss and prevent obesity.
One study from Tufts University found that turmeric extract helped suppress the growth of fat tissue in mice. Other research shows that turmeric can help reduce inflammation in the body, which in turn can help curb insulin resistance, high blood sugar, high cholesterol levels.
5. Plain Water
Just because lemon water doesn’t have it’s proven benefits doesn’t mean you need to stop drinking H2O. It’s free of calories, can boost your energy levels, and even increases the amount of energy you burn. A study from the journal, Obesity, also found that drinking a glass of water before a meal can help people lose weight, likely because they feel full faster and tend to overeat less.
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