Why Drinking Black Tea Every Morning Could Give Your Metabolism a Boost

Photo: @vorobyulia via Twenty20
Attention high-tea fiends: Green tea isn't the only health-boosting beverage worthy of your cup. New research claims drinking the English breakfast variety could elevate your metabolism and help you maintain a healthy weight. Yep, the Brits have held the secret all along.

In the study, researchers found both green and black tea promoted weight loss by decreasing the amount of bacteria associated with obesity and increasing the amount linked to lean body mass. But the mice on the black-tea diet (in the study, of course) experienced an increase in Pseudobutyrivibrio, a bacteria that's known for targeting metabolism.

"Black teas are prebiotics, substances that induce the growth of good microorganisms that contribute to a person's well-being."

The study found that regular black-tea consumption contributes to health benefits and weight loss, lead study author Susanne Henning, PhD, said in a press release. "The results suggest that both green and black teas are prebiotics, substances that induce the growth of good microorganisms that contribute to a person's well-being."

This is just another reason to avoid drinking laxative tea on the reg, which should only be used for the occasional stomachache anyway—not weight loss. In fact, when used for longer periods of time, your bowels can actually develop a dependance on laxatives for normal function, and that's not good for your overall health, according to holistic nutritionist Carley Mendes.

Since black tea has been found to stimulate gut bacteria in a way that betters your body, it's a much better road to travel when it comes to your metabolism-boosting beverage of choice.

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