Wed. May 15th, 2024
detox tea

Did you know that the Global Detox Tea Market was valued at USD 132.5 million in 2019? Yes, detox tea is a huge market that is expected to grow further in the coming years. Detox tea is a type of herbal tea that is designed to cleanse the body and promote detoxification. The tea works by helping the body to eliminate toxins and waste products that can build up and cause health problems. Detox tea can be made with various herbs, but some of the most common include dandelion, burdock, and milk thistle. Drinking detox tea on a regular basis can help to improve your overall health and well-being.

What is Detox Tea Made of?

Detox teas are made from a blend of ingredients like fruits and herbs. Examples of these herbs are Senna which helps with constipation, Yerba mate a stimulant, Garcinia cambogia which helps in appetite control, Cassi Chamaecrista a laxative and Gotu kola which helps with wound healing.

Detoxteaguide.com also offers a comprehensive review of different ingredients used to make detox teas.  One of them is green tea which has flavonoids and caffeine. These detox tea components make green tea a fat fighter. There is also black tea which is packed with polyphenols. This helps in blocking fat absorption and enhancing cardiovascular function. White tea has L-theanine which lowers stress and improves mental health.

The site also explains oolong tea which has catechins useful in fat metabolism. Other listed ingredients are rooibos tea (asplathin flavonoids), Pu-erh tea (catechins and gallic acid), Yerba mate (polyphenols and xanthines), peppermint tea (menthol), lemon tea, bilberry tea, parsley tea, dandelion tea, milk thistle, hibiscus tea, ginger tea, and burdock tea.

Researchers’ Point of View on Detox

Only a limited number of research have examined ‘detoxification” programs in people. They report positive impact on weight and fat loss, blood pressure, and insulin resistance. The studies however have design problems, few participants, and are not peer-reviewed. A 2015 study in the Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics evaluated detox diets. Their guiding premise was that dieting strategies facilitate toxin elimination and weight loss detox tea resulting in better health. The study reported that commercial detox diets enhance liver detoxification and eliminate persistent organic pollutants in the body. They cited that foods like coriander, nori, and olestra have detoxification properties.  A 2017 review reported that juicing and “detox” diets can cause initial weight loss because of low intake of calories. However,  they tend to lead to weight gain once a person resumes a normal diet. There have been no studies on the long-term effects of “detoxification” programs.

Safety of Detox Tea

Consumers should understand that all teas are not regulated under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetics Act. Therefore producers and sellers of detox teas do not need approval from Food and Drug Administration.

Digestive Problems

    • In terms of safety, excessive intake of these teas for a long time may cause digestive problems. Some of the teas contain laxatives. According to the Addiction Center overuse of laxatives result in electrolyte imbalance, dehydration, and mineral deficiencies. Long-term use damages the digestive system. They can make you feel constipated and damage the nerves and muscles of the colon.

Elevated Heart Rate and Blood Pressure

    • Teas have stimulants that elevate heart rate and blood pressure. They also increase the possibility of feeling on edge, jittery and anxious.  It is important to consult your doctor especially when you suffer from hypertension, arrhythmia, cardiac illnesses, or some psychiatric illnesses.

Dehydration

    • Dehydration is also a risk when taking detox teas. The beverages contain diuretics which make you lose a lot of water.  Loss of water makes you lose weight once you start drinking the tea. The teas, therefore, promote weight loss through fluid loss and not actual fat loss. Loss of fluids is accompanied by loss of electrolytes like sodium and potassium. You need these electrolytes to ensure that your heart and muscles function properly.

Psychological Impact

    • Persistent advertisements of detox tea may cause a negative self-image. The adverts projects commercialized standard for physical beauty. Adverts can be harmful if you are insecure about your body.

Final Thoughts on Detox Tea

Detox tea can aid in the removal of waste from your body in a timely manner. However, it is best to combine this with exercise. One of the primary reasons people drink this beverage is to lose weight. But this isn’t always the case. Although it can aid in weight loss, it will not suffice. Every day, you must eat well, exercise, and maintain your health. Additionally, consuming the beverage on a daily basis can raise the caffeine level in your system. So the best way to detoxify your system is to drink water. If any of the side effects appear, discontinue use and consult with your doctor.

By Duncan

Duncan, a licensed and registered dietitian (RD), offers tailored nutrition services for optimal health. With a degree in Foods Nutrition and Dietetics, 13 years of experience, and trusted expertise, he helps clients through his Nutrition Diet Facts platform.

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