This post has been updated since it was originally published on 01/22/2023.
The evening time can be a breeding ground for bad habits such as binge eating and drinking. And, sleep is crucial for the betterment of all parts of your body. So if you’re trying to lose weight, it’s super important to have the right meals (that incorporate superfoods!) before bed and catch enough z’s. But, there are some healthy hot drinks for your bedtime routine that could help you to lose weight effectively and keep it off.
To learn more, we spoke with Jay Cowin, NNCP, RNT, RNC, CHN, CSNA, registered nutritionist and Director of Formulations at ASYSTEM; Dr. Walker, a nutrition specialist at Clarity Hyperbarics; and Lisa Richards, registered nutritionist and creator of The Candida Diet. They revealed that drinks such as decaf green tea, chamomile tea with lemon, and turmeric golden milk are perfect bedtime beverages for longterm fat loss. Read on for tips and reasons why they’re worth a try—plus it’ll warm you up this winter, too!
Decaf green tea
With every sip, green tea provides a plethora of health benefits—from promoting glowing skin, assisting gut health, and helping you lose weight fast. This is because Richards says, green tea is a detox tea with high antioxidant contents that can help you target your weight loss goals in a healthy way. And, if you're looking for anti-oxidant-rich foods that reduce inflammation and weight gain, check out these treats!
"Detox teas can be a great beverage to consume before bedtime to speed up metabolism and fat burning," she explains. "Some of the more popular and effective detox teas are those with a high antioxidant content." Cowin agrees.
Drinking tea before sleep is one of the "best choices" you could make if you're still feeling hungry but want to wind down, he adds. Specifically, decaffeinated green tea is a "healthy beverage that can help you reduce weight effectively." Cowin says it is the "best option if you're looking to cut down on caffeine intake before bed." A consistent and regular sleep schedule is crucial for weight loss (learn about four healthy habits for better sleep!).
A cup of decaf green tea "right before sleep" can help you lose weight because it boosts your metabolism and prevents the storage of fat. "It also provides many health benefits because it is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect your body from harmful toxins," Cowin stresses.
Overall, there are plenty of beverages to drink before your head hits the pillow, but green tea is an especially great choice. Because of its high antioxidant content, it can induce muscle relaxation and sleep. As for weight loss benefits, green tea can greatly reduce bloating, and inflammation, and cleanse the body of toxins.
Chamomile Tea with Lemon
Quality sleep is crucial for maintaining a healthy metabolism and aiding in weight management. Chamomile tea with lemon adds a refreshing twist to the tea, and its vitamin C content may support the body's fat-burning processes.
"Chamomile tea helps promote relaxation, reducing cortisol levels associated with stress-induced weight gain. Adding a splash of lemon not only enhances flavor but also provides vitamin C, supporting metabolism during the night," Walker shares.
Of course consistency and other lifestyle factors do matter, but by incorporating this warm and comforting blend into a bedtime routine, individuals may not only experience a peaceful night's sleep but also contribute to their long-term fat loss goals.
Turmeric Golden Milk
Turmeric, with its active compound curcumin, is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Incorporating turmeric into a warm, spiced milk concoction may not only provide a comforting bedtime ritual but also support overall well-being. Additionally, black pepper, often added to enhance turmeric absorption, may aid in the potential fat-burning effects of this golden elixir.
"Turmeric contains curcumin, known for its anti-inflammatory properties that may aid in weight management. Golden milk's warmth promotes a soothing bedtime routine, contributing to overall well-being," says Walker.
It's essential to keep in mind that, although these bedtime beverages possess no magical qualities, their potential lies in enhancing overall sleep quality and promoting sustained fat loss when embraced as part of a consistent and balanced lifestyle.
