The danger of diet tea: may cause irreversible damage to health

Weight loss with slimming tea is associated with fluid loss

Slimming teas are very popular in different parts of the world. However, with this trend comes certain challenges that must be assessed in advance.

Tea comes in countless different varieties, from fruit to berry, black or green. The variety of flavors and health benefits make it a trendy drink. However, unlike morning tea alongside sandwiches, slimming tea, which is often promoted as a means of losing weight or cleansing the body, may have certain benefits and pose health risks.

Slimming teas made with ginger, mint leaves or fennel are widely debated as having the potential to improve digestion, reduce bloating and boost metabolism. Meanwhile, green tea or dandelion tea reduces water retention. People like the different properties of this drink, so it is particularly appreciated. In fact, teas with fiber help you feel fuller for longer, reducing the likelihood of overeating. However, while some of them are rich in antioxidants, there are also dangers^[1].

One of the main dangers is that many slimming teas contain laxatives. Meanwhile, the daily consumption of these substances often leads to fluid and electrolyte imbalances, which can manifest themselves as intestinal irritation, abdominal pain, or diarrhea. Even though slimming teas are often touted as one of the most effective ways to lose weight, the actual weight loss is usually due to fluid loss rather than fat burning. As a result, it is both quite dangerous and ineffective, and the effect on weight loss is short-lived at best.

This type of tea can be even more dangerous if taken with blood pressure medication etc.

Slimming teas are likely to contain harmful additives

First of all, you should choose teas that do not contain synthetic additives or strong laxatives. This information may be disappointing, but slimming teas should not be used as a long-term weight loss tool. Long-term healthy weight loss can only be achieved through a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle^[2]. 

Despite differing opinions, slimming teas are available in various countries "at arm's length", having gained the trust of some consumers. Unfortunately, however, not everyone knows these products do not always benefit health. 

One product that raises more questions than it answers is old-leaf tea, a laxative that is promoted as a way to lose weight and detoxify the body. However, no evidence exists that this method can permanently banish unwanted kilos^[3]. 

In fact, laxative teas may only cause short-term weight loss, but in the long term they can also cause harm. The risks associated with excessive use of decoctions of senna leaves are also described on the websites of the National Health Service and the British Public Health Service. Despite its frequent use as a laxative, old leaf tea is not banned in the European Union, but its sale and consumption are strictly regulated. It is, therefore, advisable to consult a doctor or pharmacist before using these products.

Although the senna plant does not grow naturally in every part of the world, dried senna leaves or teas and supplements based on them are available in pharmacies and specialized stores. They are imported from countries where the plant is grown commercially.

Fennel, flaxseed or caraway tea stimulates digestion in a gentler way

Prolonged use of the old plant can also cause an imbalance in the body's electrolytes, which can make it difficult to maintain adequate levels of important elements such as potassium and magnesium. This can lead to a range of health problems, from cramps and convulsions to intestinal disorders.

It is worth remembering that the "miracle" properties of these teas, i.e. rapid weight loss, are usually due to water loss and not fat loss. This deprives the body of valuable components necessary for properly functioning the brain and other key organs. To make matters worse, 'slimming' teas are heavily promoted on social networks, which can increase their credibility with consumers. In response, services such as Instagram and Facebook have restricted the possibility of advertising these infusions.

Therefore, as with any product, it is advisable to be wary of 'miracle' claims^[4].

The ingredients in modern slimming teas date back thousands of years. However, it turns out that it is better to opt for healthier alternatives: fennel, flaxseed, or caraway teas have a much gentler effect on digestion. Ginger can also help speed up the metabolism. 

Clearly, losing weight will require some effort and building up your willpower and determination. A slimming tea will certainly not take your weight off if you consume more calories than you burn. Some researchers still believe that most slimming products are nothing more than advertising gimmicks that empty wallets and eventually cripple health.