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Green Tea


Green tea extract as a dietary supplement is popular and has many reported uses. It comes from the plant Camellia sinensis and is said to have antioxidant properties. It can raise levels of good cholesterol and lower levels of bad cholesterol. It is reported to be good for the cardiovascular system and cancer.

Tea cups and tea leavesOne study has shown that this supplement increases energy expenditure and the use of stored fat. However, this study did not look at weight loss.

If theses products have not been decaffeinated, they can have the same side effects as caffeine. They may also decrease the ability of your platelets to stop bleeding.

It should not be used in people with bleeding problems or who are taking blood thinners. The class of drugs called NSAIDs (ex. ibuprofen) carries the risk of stomach bleeding, and they should not be combined with green tea. Taking this supplement with milk can reduce its antioxidant effects.

It is important you discuss any weight loss or exercise plan with your doctor. Only you and your physician can decide what is best for you. Some people have certain conditions that prevent them from doing all exercises, and goal body weights may be different for different people. You need to discuss all these things with your physician before starting any weight loss or exercise program.

This article was written by John Vickery, MD.

References
Am Fam Physician. 2004 Nov 1;70(9):1731-8.
Lexi-Comp database accessed on 4/19/08

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