Herbal teas offer a comforting and natural way to support overall health, and some can be especially beneficial for weight loss during menopause. As hormonal changes can affect metabolism and appetite, certain herbal teas may help manage these symptoms. Teas made from certain ingredients can boost metabolism, control cravings, and promote a sense of fullness.
We checked in with Dr. Michael O. McKinney to learn about six herbal teas that can help with weight loss during menopause. He revealed that green tea, peppermint tea, ginger tea, hibiscus tea, oolong tea, and rooibos tea are the ones to start drinking. Read on to find out more.
1. Green Tea
Green tea contains catechins, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which can help boost metabolic rate and increase fat oxidation. This can aid in burning more calories and support weight loss.
McKinney says, "This is beneficial, especially as metabolism may slow down during menopause because of its thermogenic properties."
2. Peppermint Tea
Peppermint tea has natural appetite-suppressing properties, which can help reduce cravings and overall calorie intake, making it easier to manage weight.
"It also soothes the digestive system for better digestion and less bloating, which are common during menopause," he notes.
3. Ginger Tea
Ginger has thermogenic properties, meaning it can increase body temperature and boost metabolism, helping the body burn more calories.
"It is known for having anti-inflammatory properties capable of reducing water retention and bloating. In addition, ginger enhances digestion and can elevate metabolism rates, thus enhancing weight management while experiencing menopause," McKinney says.
4. Hibiscus Tea
Hibiscus tea is packed with antioxidants, which can help combat oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which can contribute to weight gain and metabolic issues during menopause.
"This tea aids in maintaining blood sugar levels, which prove to be very helpful when managing weight in menopausal women," he adds.
5. Oolong Tea
Oolong tea can help stabilize blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of insulin spikes and crashes that can lead to increased hunger and cravings, which are common issues during menopause.
"Oolong tea, which is a partially fermented tea, combines the benefits of green and black teas. It helps in the oxidation of fats and improvement of energy utilization; thus, it makes a great addition to weight loss during menopause," he reveals.
6. Rooibos Tea
Rooibos tea is naturally low in calories, making it an excellent substitute for sugary or high-calorie beverages that can contribute to weight gain.
"Rooibos tea has no caffeine but does have a compound called aspalathin, which reduces hunger and stress hormones that cause fat storage. This can be highly beneficial during menopause due to increased stress levels resulting in weight gain," McKinney says.
