Health Benefits of Green Tea

Green tea is popular beverage due to its great flavor and long list of health benefits. Derived from Camellia Sinensis, green tea grows as a shrub and is left unfermented after processing. This lack of fermentation preserves the potency of the leaves natural antioxidants, alkaloids and amino acids. When brewed in boiling hot water, these compounds are extracted from the leaves and seep into the beverage along with its bright earthy flavor. Good quality green tea doesn’t need any additional flavoring, although a spoonful of local honey can sweeten the brew and enhance its health benefits. Green tea only contains mild amounts caffeine, so it’s safe to consume several cups of it throughout the day and drink it as an alternative to coffee.

There are six antioxidants in green tea, known as polyphenols, or more specifically catechins. The strongest of these is apigallocatechin gallate, or EGCG, which is widely studied and known to promote metabolic and cardiovascular health. The metabolic effects are enhanced by caffeine, theobromine and theophylline, which are stimulant alkaloids. Additionally, the amino acid L-theanine calms the nervous system, and is known as a treatment for anxiety and high blood pressure.

Weight Loss

There’s a reason why green tea is listed as an ingredient in most fat burning supplements. Studies show it increases fat oxidation by 17% and energy expenditure by 4%, while caffeine in general is proven to increase physical performance by 11-12% and boost metabolism.

Cancer Prevention

The antioxidants found in green tea help protect against oxidative damage and cancer. Studies show people who drink green tea have a 22% lower risk of breast cancer, 48% lower risk of prostate cancer and 57% lower risk of colorectal cancer. Don’t mix milk and green tea because it weakens these properties.

Dementia Protection

Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease are the leading causes of dementia due to neurodegeneration. Green tea contains catechin compounds that have been proven to protect the neurons that these diseases target and degenerate over time.

Reduces Bacteria and Viruses

Green tea promotes dental hygiene because it inhibits the bacteria streptoccus mutans, which causes plaque, cavities and tooth decay. Studies show that green tea can also reduce infections because the catechins kill bacteria and inhibit viruses, too.

Lowers Risk of Diabetes

Type II diabetes develops when the blood sugar levels are elevated regularly for sustained periods of time. Insulin, the body’s response to high blood sugar levels, is proven to be aided by green tea consumption. Studies show that drinking green tea can reduce the risk of type II diabetes by 18-42%.

Lowers Risk of Cardiovascular Disease

Heart disease and stroke are one of the leading causes of death worldwide. The major risk factors, including cholesterol and triglycerides, are proven to be reduced by drinking green tea. The antioxidants protect LDL cholesterol from oxidation as well, which is another risk factor. Studies show it can lower the risk of cardiovascular disease by 31%.

Promotes Long Life

The overall health benefits of green tea all factor together to promote a longer, healthier life. Studies prove that regular green tea drinkers live longer. This includes up to 23% lower death rate, 31% lower death rate from heart disease and 42% lower death rate from strokes. Studies also show that elderly people who drink green tea tend to live longer.