Compounds in this drink drink could potentially mirror the effects of GLP-1 injections

A common hot beverage costing a mere 4p could “mimic” the effects of weight loss medication, suggests recent findings. Researchers have identified certain natural compounds present in our diets that could potentially mirror the effects of GLP-1 injections.

GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) is a hormone generated in the gut that aids in regulating blood sugar and appetite. Treatments known as GLP-1 inhibitors have seen increased usage in recent years due to their effectiveness in managing blood sugar levels among diabetic patients and aiding weight loss.

These medications are available as injections and can be obtained through the NHS for eligible patients. However, the new findings suggest that specific foods and drinks could produce similar effects to GLP-1 inhibitors.

Researchers from Heliopolis University in Cairo recently published a review of the existing evidence in the journal Toxicology Reports, suggesting that GLP-1 might be influenced by natural compounds from diet.

The team highlighted that one of the reasons they are exploring natural alternatives to the GLP-1 injections is due to the cost and accessibility of the medications. This could also help avoid any potential side effects of the jabs, which can include vomiting, diarrhoea, and cramps.

In the study, researchers stated: “It’s about increasing treatment options and personalising it to each patient’s preferences and needs.”

As reported by Medical News Today, green tea was found to be among the foods and drinks that could affect GLP-1.

Others included:

• Ginger
• Cinnamon
• Wheat
• Berberine (a compound found in plants)

However, bariatric surgeon and medical director of MemorialCare Surgical Weight Loss Centre, Mir Ali, who wasn’t part of the research, emphasised that these ingredients shouldn’t be viewed as “alternatives” to weight loss injections. He told Medical News Today: “Natural ingredients may help boost metabolism.

“However, it is a mild effect. These [compounds] should not be considered an alternative to the GLP-1 medications.”

He clarified that these natural ingredients function through various mechanisms, “either by stimulating the central nervous system to boost metabolism (caffeine), promote fat burning (green tea extract, capsaicin), or activating other enzymes (berberine)”.

Additional research

Earlier studies have connected green tea consumption with shedding pounds. One study, featured in the Journal of Functional Foods, recommended drinking catechin-enriched green tea for precisely this purpose.

The research team stated: “Average visceral fat area, body weight, and body fat were reduced significantly by catechin-enriched green tea treatment but these effects were not seen in the control group with per-protocol sets analysis.

“The decrease at week 12 in the visceral fat area in the catechin group was greater than that in the control group. Thus, consumption of the catechin-enriched green tea beverage for 12 weeks induced visceral fat loss in Chinese adults with a high proportion of abdominal visceral fat.”

The study built upon previous research that suggested the weight loss benefits of green tea. “In recent years, there have been many studies on the beneficial effects of green tea in treating obesity and improving glucose and lipid metabolism,” the authors stated.

At the time of writing, a pack of 20 green tea bags could be purchased from Tesco for 80p, which works out at 4p per cup.

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Of all the tea varieties out there (and there are a lot), black tea is among the most popular. If not enjoyed as-is, this tea is often the base for popular blends like chai, Earl Grey, English breakfast, and more.

“Black tea is a type of tea that originated in China and is made from the Camellia sinensis plant—the same plant from which white, green, and oolong tea are made,” says Jamie Adams, MS, RDN, RPYT, women’s health dietitian and founder of Mamaste Nutrition. What sets black tea apart from these other Camellia varieties is the way it’s made—through a process called oxidation.

“The oxidation process involves exposing the tea leaves to air, allowing enzymes to transform their natural compounds, which deepens its flavor and color,” shares Samina Kalloo, RDN, CDN, registered dietitian, nutrition counselor and founder of Samina Kalloo Nutrition.

But aside from black tea’s flavor and versatility, this popular caffeinated beverage actually boasts quite a few health benefits. Read on to discover six of the most impressive ways black tea boosts overall health.

Supports Immunity

The plant compounds found in black tea exhibit antioxidant properties, which can boost immune health. “Antioxidants work by removing free radicals in the body and combating cell damage, both of which may help reduce inflammation and risk of chronic disease,” says Adams. “These powerful antioxidants are formed during the oxidation process,” adds Kalloo. In fact, a 2025 study found that consuming a greater variety of flavonoid rich foods, including black tea, may reduce all-cause mortality and the risk of cancer and other chronic diseases by anywhere from 6% to 20%.

Improves Mental Focus and Alertness

Black tea is often turned to first thing in the morning for a caffeine boost to start the day. And while many people are aware of black tea’s caffeine content, they may not know that it also contains an amino acid called L-theanine. “Both caffeine and L-theanine may improve alertness and cognitive performance,” explains Adams. Recent research echoes this sentiment, highlighting how this specific nutrient combination aids in mental clarity.

Boosts Heart Health

The polyphenols in black tea are even beneficial for those with heart health concerns—or looking to steer clear of them. “Just two cups a day can provide 400 to 600 milligrams of flavan-3-ols, the recommended daily intake to support heart health,” says Kalloo. These plant compounds support heart health through encouraging both healthy cholesterol levels and blood pressure regulation. “A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found that black tea supplementation significantly reduced both systolic and diastolic blood pressure compared to control treatments,” explains Adams.

Regulates Blood Sugar

If blood sugar regulation or type 2 diabetes prevention are a top priority for you, black tea can also play a supporting role. “Some research suggests that black tea may offer several benefits for blood sugar regulation,” offers Adams, including this randomized control trial. “Regular black tea consumption has also been linked to a lower risk for type 2 diabetes,” adds Kalloo.

Supports Gut Health

Drinking black tea may encourage a healthier gut, too! For example, a 2023 study found that black tea consumption is tied to improved gut microbiome flora, supporting digestive health, as well as all the other benefits associated with a thriving microbiome, including immune and brain health.

Contributes to Hydration

Surprisingly, black tea can actually contribute to your daily hydration needs. “Both caffeinated and decaffeinated black tea can absolutely count toward your daily fluid intake. When consumed in moderate amounts, caffeinated beverages like tea are as hydrating as water. The fluid you get from tea typically outweighs any mild diuretic effect from the caffeine,” explains Kalloo.

That said, it’s crucial to not go overboard with black tea in pursuit of hitting your fluid goals. “It’s important to consume it in moderation, as excessive intake of caffeine can lead to side effects such as insomnia or increased heart rate,” says Adams—though these effects only occur with excessive black tea consumption. “Caffeinated tea contains approximately 50 milligrams of caffeine per cup, and evidence shows no effect on hydration with intakes of up to 400 milligrams of caffeine per day or the equivalent of eight cups of tea,” explains Kalloo.