In a world obsessed with quick fixes and the relentless pursuit of an idealized body image, many individuals have been tempted to turn to slimming teas as a quick and easy solution.
These teas, often promoted as a miracle remedy with tantalizing claims of quick weight loss and detoxification, have become increasingly popular.
Though celebrated as a shortcut to weight loss, they have grave consequences that extend far beyond the quest for a trimmer waistline, according to physicians. From unexpected side effects to the long-term consequences, experts say it is essential to be informed ahead of attempting to sip your way to a slimmer figure.
Consequently, a medical doctor, Olawale Ogunlana, has cautioned against embracing slimming teas without understanding the potential health risks they may pose.
Contrary to the belief held by many, the doctor tweeted via his X handle @olawalesmd that no slimming tea can help you lose weight.
Slimming tea brands, he says, are often marketed as a straightforward and appealing promise, as they claim to help control weight by suppressing appetite, burning calories, and detoxifying the body.
He tweeted, “Slimming tea brands will toast you with a simple, yet appealing theory; they will control your weight by suppressing your appetite, burning more calories and releasing toxins from your body.
“All they ask you is to brew the tea, drink and relax while your weight simply drains away. Though, some of you will say, ‘Doctor, it worked, now I feel light, I feel free’. Note that most of these slimming teas you see include laxatives, which make you stool more after using them and others contain diuretic compounds that make you pass out more fluids as urine. So, basically, you feel free because you just pooped and peed your body dry.”
slimming teas can expose you to health complications like a weakened colon, dehydration, diarrhea, muscle cramp, aggravated constipation and reduced potassium levels
Beyond the immediate relief, Dr. Ogunlana submits that consuming slimming teas can expose you to health complications like a weakened colon, dehydration, diarrhea, muscle cramp, aggravated constipation and reduced potassium levels.
He further explained that reduced potassium levels can be particularly dangerous for individuals with heart problems, as they risk losing electrolytes, which can lead to cardiac arrhythmia and death.
“Health experts emphasize that slimming teas are not a safe or effective means of losing weight. Instead, they recommend focusing on a balanced approach, which includes cardio and strength-building exercises to burn body fat.
“A diet rich in fruit and vegetables, while minimizing sugars and processed fats, is considered a more sustainable and healthy way to manage body weight.”
The doctor maintained that unless your doctor tells you that you are overweight, you have no reason to assume so and even if you are, slimming teas are not any help at all.
So, the desire for a healthier body should not lead you to overlook the potential dangers of slimming teas. Before embarking on a weight loss journey, consulting with a healthcare professional and adopting a well-rounded approach to fitness and nutrition are strongly advised.
