Does Hibiscus Tea Break a Fast?
Recently, fasting has emerged as a popular trend for its potential health benefits, like helping lose weight and improved control over blood sugar levels. But if you’re fasting, you may wonder whether certain drinks or foods will break your fast. One of the most common questions is: does hibiscus tea break a fast?
The answer is no, hibiscus tea does not break a fast. Technically, food or drink must contain calories to break a fast. According to USDA, an 8-ounce cup of hibiscus tea has 0 calories, making it a suitable beverage for fasting.
When Does Hibiscus Tea Break a Fast?
Hibiscus tea will not break a fast as long as it contains no additives, sweeteners, or milk. If these ingredients are added to the tea, it will break a fast due to the calories they introduce.
Moreover, it’s crucial to review the ingredients of any pre-packaged hibiscus tea blend bought online to ensure it has no added components that could interfere with fasting.
Additional Benefits of Hibiscus Tea for Weight Loss
Not only does hibiscus not break a fast, but it has also been associated with weight loss.
Some studies suggest that it can help protect against obesity. Additionally, a twelve weeks study found that hibiscus can reduce body weight, body fat, and body mass index.
Further, a study on animals has suggested that hibiscus extract could aid in decreasing body weight and appetite by preventing fat cell accumulation. While the results seem promising, the current study focused on animals, and additional studies on humans are needed.
Best Hibiscus Teas for You to Try
Hibiscus teas come in various forms, ranging from loose-leaf options (comprising dried flowers and petals), to tea bags, and even K-cups. You can find pure hibiscus teas as well as unique blends.
After testing dozens of products, these are the best organic hibiscus teas we’ve discovered.
Conclusion
In conclusion, hibiscus tea does not break a fast due to its lack of calories. However, examining the ingredients list on any pre-packaged teas purchased online is crucial, as they may contain additives that could disrupt your fast.
Moreover, while further research is necessary, some studies indicate that drinking hibiscus may help decrease body weight and fat mass, and guard against obesity.
Therefore, if you’re looking for an option to support your fasting journey and potentially aid with weight loss goals, then adding hibiscus tea into your diet could be beneficial.
FAQ
Can I Have Hibiscus Tea During Intermittent Fasting?
Yes, hibiscus tea does not break a fast as it contains 0 calories. However, check pre-packaged teas for added ingredients, which may affect the fast. Studies suggest hibiscus can even help with weight loss.
What Is the Best Time to Drink Hibiscus Tea?
The best time to drink hibiscus tea could be in the morning or before meals. In the morning, it can help to kickstart your metabolism. Before meals, it might aid in reducing appetite, thereby promoting weight loss. However, some people might prefer to consume it in the evening due to its potential to lower blood pressure. As always, responses can vary from person to person, so it’s best to observe your body’s reaction and adjust accordingly.
What Teas Break a Fast?
Plain teas, including green, black, oolong, white, and herbal varieties, have virtually no calories and can be enjoyed without disrupting a fast.
However, certain popular tea varieties might include milk, sugar, syrup, or other high-calorie ingredients. For example, 16 ounces (480 ml) of bubble tea can have up to 450 calories.
Does Hibiscus Tea Spike Insulin?
Hibiscus tea, on its own, is unlikely to cause spikes in insulin levels. It is a naturally caffeine-free herbal tea with zero calories and carbohydrates. However, if you add sweeteners like sugar or honey, it could affect insulin levels. Consuming hibiscus tea without added sweeteners is best if you’re concerned about insulin spikes.
Does Herbal Tea Interrupt Intermittent Fasting?
When consumed without added sugars or sweeteners, herbal teas do not interrupt intermittent fasting. The majority of herbal teas have minimal, if any, calories, which implies they won’t affect your fasting state. In fact, many people find that drinking herbal teas during their fasting period can help alleviate hunger.
Does Hibiscus Tea Reduce Belly Fat?
Hibiscus tea may be associated with weight loss and could help protect against obesity. The 2014 study showed that participants who consumed hibiscus extract saw decreased body weight, body fat, and body mass index. Moreover, an animal study indicated that hibiscus extract could potentially aid in reducing body weight and appetite by preventing fat cell accumulation.
However, it’s crucial to mention that existing research is limited and primarily centers around concentrated doses of hibiscus extract rather than the hibiscus tea itself. More studies are needed to determine how hibiscus tea may influence weight loss, including belly fat reduction, in humans.
How to Make Hibiscus Tea for Weight Loss?
To make hibiscus tea for weight loss, steep 1 tablespoon of dried hibiscus petals in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-10 minutes. Strain the tea, let it cool, and drink it. You may also add a squeeze of lemon for flavor. Remember, consistent healthy eating and exercise are also key for weight loss.
