Touted
for their weight-loss effects and endorsed by celebs, teatoxes are gaining
popularity amongst busy brides as a holistic remedy. Is the hype legit, or just
a product of smart marketing? SERAPHINA LEONG finds out.
Liquid diets are often subject to controversy, as
solely consuming drinks for daily energy and nutrients tends to do more harm
than good. A teatox (tea detox), however, differs in its approach by acting as
a supplement to your existing meals. It’s an option that allows you more
flexibility with what you choose to eat, while still retaining the advantages
of a traditional detox.
Die-hard fans swear by its slimming properties and
revivifying qualities. But can a few cups of leaf-infused water truly be that
effective? We take a look at some of its most well known claims, as well as
assumptions, and expose the truth behind them.
“Drinking
teatox beverages without making any changes to your current lifestyle or diet
will reap its benefits.”
False.
Naturally, there
is no such thing as a magical solution that will make you shed pounds by merely
ingesting it. If you desire a svelte and toned figure, you will still need to
eat healthily and be disciplined in establishing a weekly exercise schedule. This
also means cutting down on your sugar intake and staying away from junk foods.
Remember the golden rule of weight loss, which is to create a calorie deficit
by burning more calories than you consume.
“Teatoxes
will help you lose weight and gain a slimmer figure.”
True.
The components
of teatoxes can combine to have a substantial appetite suppressant effect. Our
modern diet is saturated with refined carbohydrates and lacking in sufficient
amounts of protein or fibre – a feature that is attributed to our tendency to
eat on the go, choose cheap and easy instant options and have meals in
restaurants and hawker centres. This causes us to feel hungry faster and more
often. With a teatox, we can successfully subdue these unhealthy hunger pangs
and get by with less food without sacrificing comfort or health.
On top of that, we may experience increased metabolism
through the thermogenic nature of certain teas, which simultaneously burns and
decreases fat storage. Green tea is especially famed for this quality, and has
the backing of scientific studies to prove it.
Nevertheless, you have to be careful that you are not
mistaking water weight for fat mass when you notice the kilos disappearing on
the bathroom scale. Caffeine and diuretics, as well as natural ingredients that
double up as laxatives, can considerably deplete your body’s fluids.
“It
is completely safe as the blends are made from all-natural ingredients.”
False.
“Natural” does
not equate to “wholesome”, as many of us might blithely assume. Just as how we should
consume different types of foods in moderation, we also need to drink our teas
judiciously. Newbies will probably be surprised to hear that some herbs commonly
used in the tea mixtures can produce toxic effects.
Senna is a laxative that pops up frequently in the
ingredients list. When taken over an extended period of time, it can cause
vomiting, diarrhoea and dehydration. On a more serious note, it can even result
in electrolyte imbalances and elicit muscle spasms or heart rhythm anomalies.
Caffeine and guarana induce an energy boost, which
could interfere with sleeping patterns and prevent you from getting enough
shut-eye. In turn, this will possibly lead to weight gain through excessive
eating and slow metabolism – which defeats the whole purpose of why you are on
a detox in the first place.
Other examples that you should try to avoid in
large quantities are bitter orange – a contributor of heart attack deaths,
Siberian ginseng – which is affiliated with blood-related conditions, and
seaweed varieties that are rich in iodine – these can lead to hyperthyroidism.
If you are on medications, check with your doctor if
the teatox you are planning to take will affect them. For example, some tea
medleys can hamper the effectiveness of birth control pills. Another vital
thing to be aware of is to refrain from prolonging any teatox diet beyond 28
days. Serious potential side effects are usually attributed to long-term use,
and it can also make your internal system reliant on stimulants to function as
per normal.
“A
teatox will improve your overall health.”
True.
At the end of
the day, even the sceptics cannot deny the health benefits of teatoxes. Herbal
teas generally have a very positive impact on your system. They can aid
digestion by speeding up waste removal from the colon and calming a bloated
stomach; flush out toxins by boosting liver enzymes; and improve your internal
defence system against illnesses.
Since the array of benefits is so diverse, you have
the liberty of choosing them by selecting the appropriate materials.
Chrysanthemum, loved for its fresh and uplifting flavour, is primarily used for
cultivating energy and immunity while goji berries brim with anti-oxidants and
vitamins. You will find that Asian varieties are very prominent in teatox
blends so you might come across ingredients such as oolong and pu’er, which are
both renowned for eradicating fat.
Other prevalent types include dandelion tea which is
full of minerals and vitamin C, white tea that is loaded with anti-aging
elements and fennel that boasts anti-inflammatory recompenses and high amounts
of essential oils.
The Big Question
Is
teatoxing a wedding-worthy investment? If done correctly, while paying heed to
the right precautions, the benefits are astounding. See it as a little much-needed
TLC for your wellbeing. It may not result in a supermodel bod but you will most
definitely be able to enjoy your special day while looking – and feeling –
absolutely radiant and energised.
Three Months
Is
the recommended break in between teatoxes.
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