In recent years, detox tea has become increasingly popular as a way to lose weight and improve overall health. Celebrities tout its ability to help them drop pounds quickly, and social media is full of before-and-after photos of real people who claim to have achieved incredible results by drinking nothing but teas for weeks on end.
But what is this supposedly magical beverage? Detox teas are herbal blends containing various ingredients like ginger, green tea, a, dandelion root, and honey. Some also include laxatives like senna or guarana, which are thought to help expel toxins from the body and speed up weight loss.
Sounds great so far, right? Unfortunately, you should be aware of the dark side of these teas before you start sipping. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the potential side effects of detox teas, their purported benefits, and how they work. By the end, you’ll know if this trend is right for you.
The Good: Weight Loss
One of the most popular reasons people drink detox tea is for weight loss. And there’s some evidence to suggest that it can work. A review of 23 studies found that green tea has a “small positive effect” on weight loss.
Another study showed that taking green tea extract twice daily for 8 weeks resulted in significantly lower body fat than taking a placebo. However, remember that these studies looked at the effects of green tea extract, not just brewed green tea. So, the weight loss benefits may be due more to the extracts than the tea itself.
Side Effects of Detox Tea
While detox teas are generally considered safe for most people when consumed in moderation, there are some potential side effects, like nausea, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation—especially if they contain laxatives like senna or guarana if consumed in large amounts.
Some of these side effects include:
- Gastrointestinal issues: Some detox tea ingredients may cause nausea, vomiting, cramps, diarrhea or bloating in some people. If you experience any of these symptoms after drinking detox tea, it’s best to discontinue use and see your doctor if the symptoms persist.
- Drug interactions: Detox teas containing senna leaf may interact with certain medications used for heart disease or high blood pressure. When consumed in large amounts, senna leaf may also lead to liver damage.
- Dehydration: Caffeine is a diuretic, which may cause you to urinate more frequently than normal when consumed in large amounts. This can lead to dehydration if you don’t drink enough fluids throughout the day. If you experience dehydration symptoms such as dizziness or light-headedness after drinking detox tea containing caffeine, be sure to increase your fluid intake and see your doctor if the symptoms persist.
Detox teas are popular among people who want to improve their health or lose weight; however, there is no scientific evidence to support these claims. Additionally, some of the ingredients in these teas can cause side effects like nausea or bloat in some people.
If you’re considering trying a detox tea for its purported health benefits, it’s important to speak with your doctor first to discuss any possible risks or side effects.
