Besides dieting and exercise, many people turn to herbal drinks hoping to aid weight loss. Among them, perilla leaf and ginger tea is one of the recipes widely shared on social media. Some even claim that simply drinking it regularly every day can reduce fat and waist size. In reality, both perilla and ginger are familiar medicinal herbs in traditional medicine. For a long time, these two ingredients have been used to relieve colds, warm the body, aid digestion, or reduce bloating.
1. Ginger can support weight management.
Some studies suggest that the active compounds in ginger may help the body generate mild thermogenesis after meals, support energy metabolism, and create a longer-lasting feeling of fullness in some people. Ginger has also been noted to improve blood sugar control and reduce chronic inflammation – factors commonly found in overweight and obese individuals.
However, this doesn't mean drinking ginger water will automatically "burn fat" in your body. Any effect, if present, is usually modest and only becomes apparent when combined with a balanced diet, reduced overall calorie intake, and regular exercise. In other words, ginger can contribute to weight loss, but it's not the deciding factor.
Perilla leaf tea with ginger is a popular choice for many as a weight-management aid.
2. Do perilla leaves help with weight loss?
Studies show that perilla leaves contain many antioxidant compounds such as polyphenols, flavonoids, and rosmarinic acid. These active compounds are beneficial to health, contributing to anti-inflammation, cell protection, and support for fat metabolism.
Some laboratory studies have also noted that perilla leaf extract may affect the process of fat accumulation.
3. Why do many people see weight loss when they drink perilla leaf tea with ginger?
Many people notice weight loss of a few kilograms after drinking perilla leaf tea with ginger for a while. However, the cause is usually not due to the drink itself. When starting to lose weight, many people also give up soft drinks, bubble tea, or other sugary beverages to switch to herbal tea. Simply cutting down on sugar and calories from drinks significantly reduces daily energy intake, contributing to weight loss.
Additionally, drinking a glass of warm water before meals, such as perilla leaf and ginger tea, can help some people feel full faster, thus eating less. When combined with walking, exercise, and sufficient sleep, weight loss will gradually occur over time. In other words, perilla leaf and ginger tea can play a supportive role when combined with lifestyle changes.
4. How should you drink perilla leaf tea with ginger to get the best benefits?
If you enjoy the flavor of perilla and ginger, you can certainly incorporate them into your daily herbal drink.
To maximize the benefits of perilla leaf tea with ginger, please note the following:
- Avoid adding too much sugar or honey if you're trying to lose weight.
- Do not completely replace plain water with perilla leaf and ginger tea.
- Combine this with a diet rich in green vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and protein-rich foods.
- Maintain at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week, as recommended by the World Health Organization.
- Get enough sleep and avoid staying up late, as lack of sleep also increases the risk of weight gain.
These are all factors that have been shown to have a significant impact on weight management.
5. Who should avoid drinking large amounts of perilla leaf tea with ginger?
Perilla leaf tea with ginger is not suitable for:
- Individuals taking anticoagulants or antiplatelet medications should consult their doctor before consuming large amounts of ginger for extended periods.
- People with acid reflux may experience more burning or discomfort if they consume too much ginger, especially on an empty stomach.
Pregnant women who wish to use ginger regularly should consult a healthcare professional to ensure the appropriate amount is used.
Additionally, if symptoms such as hives, itching, or difficulty breathing appear after taking the medication, discontinue use and seek medical attention.
A glass of perilla leaf tea with ginger can be a healthier option than soft drinks or milk tea, contributing to improved digestion and providing beneficial compounds. Combined with a healthy lifestyle, it's the safest, most effective, and sustainable way to lose weight.
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