Summer translates to carefree fun in the sun, outdoor activities, and social gatherings, but it also invites unhealthy cravings. Foods that people consider classic refreshments, snacks, and desserts rack up excess calories. If the goal is to stay slim and summertime fine, the last thing you want is to accumulate waste in the body. Unfortunately, summer snacks and drinks can easily make that happen. 

That’s where detox iced teas come enter the equation. Sip rejuvenating beverages that enhance hydration efforts and simultaneously aid with flushing harmful toxins out of the body. Regular consumption of these detox iced teas may aid weight loss efforts by increasing metabolism. It’s important to note that drinking detox teas and maintaining an unhealthy diet will not yield positive results. The teas do not simply cancel out poor lifestyle choices and unhealthy eating habits. Losing weight requires a multi-faceted approach, and these teas merely enhance weight loss efforts.

How Can Teas Boost Weight Loss?

One of the primary compounds of green tea leaves is caffeine. It acts as a mild stimulant that works to improve exercise performance and fat burning. According to research, the most impressive aspect of green tea’s nutritional profile is the antioxidant content. Researchers confirmed that drinking green tea works to slowly increase blood antioxidant levels. Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is the standout antioxidant in green tea and it has been known to boost metabolism. 

In order to burn fat, the body has to break down fat cells and move them into the bloodstream. EGCG works to inhibit an enzyme that breaks down norepinephrine, a hormone involved in fat burning. By inhibiting this enzyme, norepinephrine increases to enhance the breakdown of fat cells. Caffeine may also enhance the efforts of EGCG on fat cells. Additionally, EGCG increases the body’s ability to burn more calories, even at resting metabolic rate. Most studies confirmed that people who drank green tea experienced a 3-4% increase in metabolism. If you follow a 2,000 calorie per day diet, that translates to about 60-80 calories. 

We gathered three impressive detox iced tea recipes that can enhance your weight loss efforts. Sip them throughout summer and let us know how you enjoy them in the comments. 

Detox Blueberry Coconut Iced Green Tea

Ingredients:

• 2 green tea bags
• 1/2 cup frozen blueberries
• 1.5 tablespoons raw honey
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 4 cups coconut water, boiled

Instructions:

• Add the tea bags, blueberries, honey, and lemon juice to a heat-safe pitcher. 
• After boiling the coconut water, pour it into the pitcher. Allow the ingredients to steep for 5 minutes. 
• Remove the tea bags and serve over ice. Garnish with optional fresh blueberries and mint. 

Cinnamon Turmeric Detox Iced Tea

Ingredients:

• 1 green tea bag
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon raw honey
• 4 cups warm water

Instructions:

• Add the tea bag, cinnamon, turmeric, and raw honey to a heat-safe pitcher. 
• Pour the warm water into the jar and stir gently. Allow this to steep for five minutes.
• Remove the tea bag and serve over ice. Garnish with additional cinnamon or turmeric.

Lemon Ginger Basil Iced Tea

Ingredients:

• 2 lemons
• 3/4 cup basil leaves
• 5 thin slices of ginger root, peeled
• 1 green tea bag
• 3 teaspoons raw honey

Instructions:

• Cut the lemons in half and squeeze the juice into a big pitcher. Make sure to avoid dropping seeds into the pitcher. 
• Add the squeezed lemons to the pitcher, along with the basil, sliced ginger, and green tea bag. 
• Pour enough warm water into the pitcher to completely submerge all of the ingredients. Add the honey, stir gently, and steep for five minutes. 
• Remove the tea bag, lemon halves, ginger slices, and basil by pouring the tea through a sieve. 
• Serve the liquid over ice and enjoy.

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Getting older is part of life. People know that and they still freak out at the sight of a gray hair or wrinkles. Although you don’t possess the power to turn back the hands of time, you do have access to an array of supplements that may prevent premature aging. In fact, some vitamins and minerals have impressive anti-aging properties. 

Extending the human life and slowing the aging process are two topics of scientific interest. The more research that scientists conduct, the more they learn about foods, substances, or compounds that exhibit anti-aging properties. In order to prevent premature aging, you have to know why signs of aging happen. One of the primary causes of aging is the accumulation of cellular damage as the result of reactive molecules and shortening of telomere. These molecules are known as free radicals and telomere are structures located at the end of chromosomes, and they play an integral role in cellular division. 

As you age, the immune system also becomes less active, which decreases your risk fo fight against age-related disease. In addition to fighting premature signs of aging, the vitamins and minerals in this article may also enhance immune function. This can help defend the body against free radicals and oxidation. Continue reading to learn more. 

CoQ10

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is an antioxidant that works to promote collagen production. The body naturally produces it and it helps to protect against cellular damage and contributes to energy production. According to research studies, CoQ10 levels drop as you age, so supplementing with it may reduce premature signs of aging. In fact, one study found that older adults who supplemented with CoQ10 and selenium improved overall quality of life. They also improved mental performance and slowed the deterioration of physical performance.

Curcumin

Curcumin is the active compound in turmeric that exhibits powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Many studies found that it also possesses anti-aging properties, which researchers attribute to the antioxidant potential. Curcumin works to activate certain proteins, including AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and sirtuins. In doing so, curcumin may help promote longevity. Additionally, curcumin may postpone age-related disease and fight general age-related symptoms. You can either take curcumin supplements or increase your intake of turmeric. 

Selenium

Selenium is a trace mineral that works to prevent vitamin E deficiency. In small doses, selenium is extremely beneficial to the overall health of your skin because it can neutralize free radicals. These can induce cell damage and increase signs of aging, including wrinkles and dark spots. You have to be careful with selenium supplements, though, as you should not exceed 100-200 micrograms (mcg) per day. Additionally, long-term selenium supplementation may increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, but research is necessary on this matter.

Collagen

Some dermatologists refer to collagen as the fountain of youth, in regards to how it improves the appearance of your skin. It’s an essential component of the skin’s structure, and it lessens as you age. The decrease in collagen increases the presence of wrinkles. Some research found that collagen may help ward off premature signs of aging, including dry skin and wrinkles. One study found that supplementing with 2.5 grams of collagen, including other supplements like biotin, helped improve skin hydration and elasticity. Supplementing with collagen may not prevent aging, but it can prevent additional loss of collagen, which influences the appearance of skin.

EGCG

Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is a polyphenol compound that is well-known for its existence in green tea. Not only does it reduce the risk of certain cancers and heart disease, but it also helps protect against age-related disease. Researchers found that EGCG exhibits an ability to promote longevity as well. Some researchers believe that the ability to restore mitochondrial function in cells is a primary reason why it slows the signs of aging. EGCG also acts on pathways involved with aging, including the AMPK signaling pathway. Finally, EGCG induces autophagy, the bodily process of getting rid of damaged cellular material.

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The aging population in the United States is growing rapidly. The projected number of people over the age of 65 will be roughly 80.4 million by the year 2050. This rapid increase of the aging population also raises the amount of people with cognitive impairment. As of 2015, roughly 6.7% of elderly people reported symptoms of declining cognition, including early signs of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. 

This is not meant to depress you; rather, we present you with this information so that you can be aware. Additionally, you can start consuming certain foods and supplements that help to improve memory, productivity, and focus as you age. Nootropics are natural and synthetic compounds that encourage healthier brain function. Many beverages contain powerful nootropics, antioxidants, and probiotics that optimize the brain.

If you feel like you need to boost your brain power, start consuming the following beverages.

Beet Juice

Beets are nutritional superstars. They help to cleanse the liver, but they also increase levels of nitric oxide, which is a blood gas that increases blood flow. What does that do for your brain, you ask? Nitric oxide signaling may affect the areas of your brain that are responsible for decision making, learning, and language. One study scanned the brains of test subjects before and after drinking beet juice. The scans found that there was more white matter, i.e. increased blood circulation, in the frontal lobe after drinking beet juice.

Green Tea

Green tea contains two powerful nootropic compounds: epigallocatechin (EGCG) and L-theanine. When you drink green tea, the EGCG enters the brain via the blood-brain barrier. This may help benefit the brain by combatting neurodegenerative diseases, but more research is needed on that matter. Typically, L-theanine works to promote relaxation, but the combination of L-theanine with the caffeine in green tea help to improve memory, focus, and attention. 

Kombucha

According to research, having more healthy bacteria in the gut improves brain function. The gut-brain axis is a two-way line of communication that exists between the gut and brain. Biochemical signaling occurs between the nervous system in the digestive tract (the enteric nervous system) and the central nervous system, which includes the brain. The gut is often called “the second brain,” because it produces many of the same neurotransmitters as the brain does. To keep your gut healthy, you need to replenish it with probiotics, and kombucha has a lot of them. Made from green or black tea and fruit botanicals, kombucha is a great beverage to promote gut and brain health.

Blueberry Juice

Nutritionists often refer to blueberries as “brain berries” because contain a lot of antioxidants that neutralize free radicals. When the body is overloaded with free radicals, it is more prone to cell damage. Researchers believe that the anthocyanins in blueberries, which give them their signature color, are largely responsible for their brain-boosting benefits. Similar to the antioxidants in green tea, the flavonoids in blueberries cross the blood-brain barrier, which enhances brain cell communication. In fact, some research found that those flavonoids may even promote the growth of healthy, new brain cells. 

Carrot Juice

People praise carrots for their vitamin A content, which is a brain-boosting nutrient. According to several studies, increased oxidative stress in the body accelerates the rate of cognitive decline. Vitamin A, which the body converts into beta-carotene, helps to reduce oxidative stress and improve brain function. The brain benefits of carrots don’t stop there, though. People often overlook the potassium content in carrots, and potassium works to send more oxygen to the brain, helping it function better. When you don’t have sufficient oxygen supply to the brain, you’ll notice the side effects, which can worsen if the brain doesn’t receive sufficient oxygen. 

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Matcha has risen to popularity over the years and has become quite the sensation among foodies. From matcha lattes to homemade matcha energy bites, this green tea powder is revered as a superfood. What many people don’t know is that matcha’s numerous antioxidant properties do wonders for the skin.

The skin care market is oversaturated with chemical serums, animal-tested products, and creams that promise to make you look 20 years younger. Skip the chemical products and get on board with matcha and the DIY anti-aging slave in this article.

What Is Matcha?

Matcha has been a part of Japanese culture since the 12^th century. It is made from the dried leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, which is used to produce all types of teas. What sets matcha apart from green tea, white tea, or oolong tea is the fact that it is never heated. Additionally, matcha is minimally processed, which helps it retain the nutrients and antioxidants.

Skin Benefits Of Matcha

In case you aren’t familiar with matcha, it is a dark green powder. The color indicates that it has a high amount of chlorophyll, which has been known to protect the skin from sun damage and reduce photo-aging (fewer wrinkles and sun spots). Chlorophyll helps to shield the skin from impurities or bacteria that can easily clog pores.

Another benefit of matcha is that it contains epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), which is a powerful antioxidant that has antibiotic and antibacterial properties. Studies have shown that EGCG helps to reduce blemishes, and it works to promote supple and smoother skin because of how it rejuvenates skin cells.

While the matcha is the star of this anti-aging salve recipe, we can’t neglect the healing properties of the other ingredients. Beeswax and coconut oil provide a beautiful moisturizing base, and the essential oils in this salve have been known to keep the skin clear and balanced. Frankincense and myrrh oils are known for benefiting the skin, but geranium oil is lesser known, even though it enhances skin health.

Matcha Green Tea Salve

Ingredients:

• 2-4 salve containers (2-ounce tin containers work great)
• 2 ounces beeswax pastilles
• 1 teaspoon sweet almond oil
• 1 tablespoon organic unrefined coconut oil
• 12 drops frankincense essential oil
• 8 drops geranium essential oil
• 7 drops myrrh essential oil
• ½ teaspoon matcha green tea powder

Instructions:

• Pour water into the bottom pan of a double boiler and place it on the stove over medium heat. If you don’t have a double boiler, pour a few inches of water into a medium saucepan and place over medium heat.
• Add the beeswax to the top of the double boiler and stir until melted. If you are using the saucepan method, add the beeswax to a heat-safe bowl and place it on top of the saucepan. Stir until melted.
• Once the beeswax is melted and there are no lumps, pour the coconut and sweet almond oils into the boil and stir to combine. 
• Remove the bowl with the melted oils from the heat and turn the stove off. Once the oils have cooled slightly, add the essential oils and stir well.
• Finally, pour the matcha powder in and stir slowly. It tends to clump so make sure that it is fully mixed in, scraping down the sides of the bowl if necessary.
• Pour the mixture into the containers, but don’t fill to the brim. You want a little room on top. Leave the salve on the counter until it is fully cooled (about 30-40min), and then put the lids on.
• Store the containers in a cool dry place. When you want to use it, apply a pea-sized amount to the desired areas.

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There’s nothing more refreshing than a sip of freshly made lemonade. We emphasize the “freshly made” part because so many bottled juices, lemonade included, contain tons of added or refined sugars and artificial sweeteners. The worst part is that you don’t even reap the benefits of lemons because store bought lemonades are all processed!

This post isn’t just about lemons, though, it is also about matcha, which is a Japanese green tea that comes in powder form. It actually contains 137 times more of the EGCG antioxidant than regular green tea. People love to drink matcha tea because it has life-lengthening properties. But let’s return to that powerful antioxidant for a second.

EGCG, or Epigallocatechin gallate, is more potent in matcha because farmers shade the tealeaves for about three weeks before the harvest. In doing so, the tea plants boost chlorophyll production by utilizing as much sun as possible. This strong antioxidant content has been known to help those with ovarian, breast, lung, and prostate cancer.

Matcha also contains the compound known as L-theanine, which helps to lower stress, nourish the brain, and improve focus. This compound also causes caffeine to be released steadily so that you are naturally energized throughout the day. This helps you avoid crashing. There are also anti-inflammatory benefits associated with drinking matcha.

The Best Matcha Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups hot water
• 6 cups cold filtered water
• ½ teaspoon matcha powder
• 2 lemons, juiced
• Raw agave to taste (optioal)

Instructions:

• In a large mug, stir the matcha and agave into the hot water until the powder is dissolved.
• In a pitcher, add the lemon juice and cold filtered water. Pour the hot matcha liquid into the pitcher with the lemon water. Place the pitcher in the fridge for about 30 minutes. Enjoy!

Note: Limes and mint are pictured, but use the ingredients that we have listed.

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