Chinese teas have long been considered great for people who want to shed some pounds. In fact, many companies produce teas labeled “Chinese diet tea” or “Weight Loss tea” for those who wish to lose weight. Perhaps the main reason for this is that tea by itself contains roughly only 4 calories per serving, and the caffeine in tea is potent enough to increase body function to help burn calories. It is also believed that the polyphenols in tea aid in the digestion of fat, making it an aid in fat loss.
Whatever is is labeled; Chinese diet tea, slimming tea, fasting tea, weight loss tea, all promote a common message – drink this tea and you will lose weight. However, many experts note that what you are actually consuming by taking these products is a plant based laxative that can cause certain disorders like stomach cramps, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, fainting, chronic constipation, etc. Don’t let that scare you though. Many things we already consume on a daily basis can cause these same symptons, but when in doubt always consult a dr.
The FDA once stressed that the laxative teas and dietary supplements of most concern are those containing one or more of the substances, such as aloe, senna, rhubarb root, buckthorn, castor oil, and cascara. These products are derived from plants and have been used since time immemorial for their ability to relieve constipation and promote bowel movements. They are deemed effective for such purposes with occasional use.
When the labeled “Chinese diet teas” are excessively used based on the misconception that frequent bowel movements prevent the absorption of calories that problems tend to occur. Numerous studies have shown that the laxative-induced diarrhea does not significantly reduce absorption of calories for the reason that laxatives don’t work in the small intestine, where the calories are absorbed. It rather works on the colon, which is the lower end of the bowel.
Also found out is that when the teas are misused by steeping it longer than the product label recommends can lead to short as well as long term adverse affects. This is also true when the teas are taken more than the recommended amount.
It has been noted that for those first-time users who drank diet teas more than the recommended amount, stomach cramps, vomiting, nausea and diarrhea are the common disorders to occur and will last for one day to several days. When these laxatives are used continually, laxative dependency will tend to develop with bouts of chronic diarrhea, abdominal pain as well as constipation. In the most severe cases, these laxatives can cause fainting, dehydration and serious electrolyte disorders. As noted, these after-effects of excessive use of diet teas are most likely to develop in people who are nutritionally compromised due to rigorous weight-loss dieting.
Because of these concerns, the FDA is now considering requiring the manufacturers of labeled “Chinese diet teas” to place warning labels on all of their product stimulant laxatives. It is also important that those who are using Chinese diet teas for any purpose must read and follow the recommended directions carefully.
If you have any concerns whatsoever about taking diet teas you should consult a real doctor first before ingesting. And always use common sense when consuming anything. Anything taken in large amounts can lead to adverse affects so be cautious.
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