Slimming Tea: Benefits, Ingredients & Potential Side Effects

Slimming tea is available without a prescription as a natural supplement to aid in weight loss. The tea contains several ingredients that increase bowel movements, so the dieter can undergo a natural detoxification process and potentially lose pounds and inches.

Laxative Effects

• Slimming tea typically contains a combination of rhubarb root, senna and castor oil that serve as powerful laxatives; these help promote increased bowel movements throughout the day.

Dehydration

• If the dieter is retaining water, ingredients such as asparagus root extract and silica act as natural diuretics; weight loss may be a result of the loss of excess fluid.

Increased Energy

• Some types of slimming tea contain green tea, bitter orange, garcinia cambogia and grapefruit extracts that increase alertness, act as diuretics and provide an energy boost.

Potential Dangers

• Using laxatives on a regular basis can cause damage to the gastrointestinal tract, extreme dehydration and electrolyte imbalances; overuse of appetite suppressants and energy boosters can also lead to dependency (see References).

Warnings

• Slimming tea is not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and is instead available as a supplement; some people may experience adverse side effects from the ingredients.