In another of our articles, we discussed tea as a weight-loss aid. Since tea helps the metabolism burn fat and serves as a low-calorie substitute for other beverages we sometimes enjoy too much, it's easy to appreciate tea for its slimming benefits. But did you know that tea can also help curb snacking?

By what kind of magic, you might ask? Let's see.

The short answer to your question lies in the EGCG in green tea, which helps lower glucose levels in your body and improve insulin circulation in your bloodstream. This is great for diabetics, but what does it mean for you? Well, by stabilizing your glycemic index, you avoid sudden spikes in your blood sugar—those glucose spikes that trigger sudden cravings for snacks and unhealthy foods. By keeping your blood sugar levels steady, tea helps you better control your appetites and those vending machine impulses!

Furthermore, among tea's diuretic properties is this little gem: tea apparently promotes the production of satiety hormones. In short, an effective appetite suppressant against snacking!

Unfortunately, snacking isn't always (or even usually!) a result of hunger. Many people snack because they're bored or out of habit – a snack after work, and a chocolate bar before bed. Everyone has their rituals, but not every ritual is good for your waistline!
Preparing tea is a ritual in itself, giving you the opportunity to pause and reflect, rather than acting mechanically under the influence of stress or boredom! By taking a moment to refocus (and perhaps even socialize with family or colleagues), you might realize that you weren't hungry at all and that your cup of tea is perfectly sufficient as a coffee break!