By Joe DiAngelo
Personal Trainer New York City

One recent double-blind study analyzed 3 groups- one with green tea, one with placebo, and one with just caffeine. The green tea group showed a small but statistically significant 4 percent increase in energy expenditure, compared with no change for those taking either placebo or caffeine alone. 

The scientists surmised that green tea catechins may alter the body's use of norepinephrine, a chemical transmitter in the nervous system, to increase the rate of calorie burning.

Green tea also causes carbohydrates to be released slowly, preventing sharp increases in blood-insulin levels. This promotes the burning of fat.

In a study of more than 2000 Japanese men aged 49 to 55, green tea consumption was found to significantly lower serum levels of total cholesterol.

The men in the study group drank 10 Japanese-size green tea cups a day (about 4 to 5 western-sized cups).

Scientists monitoring this group found that drinking green tea improves the ratio of LDL ('bad") cholesterol to HDL ("good") cholesterol. LDL cholesterol was reduced and  HDL cholesterol was increased slightly in the Japanese study.

Green Tea, Weight Loss, and Cholesterol Levels

If you drink green tea you can-

• Lower cholesterol 

• Increase Thermogenesis (the body's rate of burning calories)

• Enhance fat oxidation

Unfermented green tea leaves are the least processed form of tea. Drinking green tea from 100% quality tea leaves is the most natural way to benefit your nutritional and fitness program. 

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