Health experts have said that there is no evidence that any slimming tea is effective in supporting long-term weight loss, noting that most of the claims made by the sellers of the products have no scientific backing, Punch Newspaper reports.
The experts also cautioned Nigerians against indiscriminate consumption of slimming teas to lose weight, noting that they can predispose the users, especially women, to several health complications.
According to the experts, some hormonal ingredients in slimming teas can cause the cessation of menstruation and other health issues.
They also warned that the cessation of menstruation increases the risk of womb cancer in women.
The experts, a former director of Nutrition Services, Dr. James Oloyede, and a Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, Dr. Stanley Egbogu, noted that the quick-fix slimming teas are no substitute for a healthy diet and exercise for anyone who wishes to lose weight.
Slimming teas have become quite popular in the last few years. Most of the sellers of the products target women who desire to look slim with their advertisements.
The sellers claim that the slimming teas help the consumers lose weight and cleanse their systems.
The sellers often claim that the tea stimulates digestion, aids metabolism, and, in some cases, rids the body of impurities.
There are many slimming teas in the Nigerian market.
PUNCH HealthWise’s findings revealed that the slimming teas sold in Nigeria are mostly imported from the USA, Europe and Asia.
The United States Food and Drug Administration, however, says it has not approved any slimming tea.
According to a recent article published by Very Well Fit – a medically reviewed health site, several of the ingredients in slimming teas are laxatives and diuretics.
The article, however, acknowledged that it is possible for persons drinking slimming tea to feel that their stomach is flatter very briefly, especially, after they expel urine and faeces.
It, nevertheless, noted that the slimming teas have “no long-term benefit, no sustainable weight loss, and no guarantee of a flat tummy.
