People have discovered the green tea benefits more than 4,000 years ago and over the last few decades, it has been the subject of many scientific and medical studies that seem to support the idea that it is indeed a miracle drink.
Its many health benefits are mainly due to the anti-oxidizing properties coming from its of Theonone, Catechin Polyphenols and caffeine content. The limited oxidation or fermentation of the tea leaves during processing preserves their antioxidant properties from breaking down, thus making it more beneficial than the black or oolong varieties.
What are the most important benefits of green tea?
- It boosts immunity. Studies have shown that people who drink this type of tea regularly are more resistant to viral and bacterial infections than those who don’t. The antigens it contains prepare the body for bacterial invasion. The Catechin prevents the bacteria and viruses from attacking healthy cells and infecting them. It also fights the toxins released by various microbes. Numerous researches have proven that drinking tea promotes a strong immune response.
- It has anti-aging properties. Our bodies are worn down in time by free radicals. The free radicals damage healthy cells by braking down the collagen levels and depleting them of oxygen. The main task of anti-oxidants is to neutralize the free radicals or oxidants present in the body. Green tea has high anti oxidizing properties, the Catechin Polyphenol present in it being the main responsible for the anti-oxidizing effect that slows down premature aging. This Catechin, in fact, contains 25 – 100 times more antioxidants than vitamins C or E.
The products derived from the plant of Camellia Sinensis work great when taken internally or applied externally on the skin. Recent studies have proven that the skin benefits of the teas derived from this plant are real, and that they delay the development of some signs of aging due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- It helps fight cancer. The free radicals are also responsible for various types of cancer. The Cathechins in green tea neutralize these free radicals, preventing the formation of carcinogens and reducing the chances of cancer. Animal studies have suggested that this type of tea decreases cancerous cells multiplication, increases cancer cell death and prevents blood vessel spread in tumors. During one such study non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma cells were transplanted into lab mice, green tea prevented 50% of tumors from taking hold and significantly inhibited the growth of such tumors.
This type of tea inhibits the growth of breast cancer cells, colorectal cancer, skin cancer, bladder cancer, lung, pancreatic, stomach and prostate cancer. In all cases, EGCG has proven to be the most powerful biologic inhibitor of cancer cell proliferation.
- It reduces cholesterol. Researchers have shown that it lowers total cholesterol and raises HDL (good cholesterol). The polyphenols in this type of tea block the intestinal absorption of cholesterol and promote its excretion from the body.
- It is anti-diabetic. When it is not taken with sugar, the alkaline nature of this tea type reduces the blood glucose level. Improving the functioning of the pancreas and indirectly the secretion of insulin, it insures a better decomposing and absorption of sugar.
- It is great for weight loss. It works on two levels: it burns fat and boosts the metabolism. Its high polyphenol content activates an enzyme responsible for dissolving excess fat. At the same time, the Catechin polyphenols and caffeine in green tea stimulate the central nervous system causing fat to be released into the blood stream for the body to use as fuel.
This type of tea also stimulates the nervous system and gives you more energy. You can use this energy to get in shape and exercise more often. The extra bonus, is this kind of tea also reduces the sensation of hunger and cravings, so it will be easier to stick to your diet.
- It has an overall stimulating effect. It contains caffeine and tannins, which are great stimulants for the body. This is why a cup of this miraculous drink makes you feel full of energy. It is great in countering sleepiness, lack of energy and fatigue. The caffeine in green tea does not have any of the side effects of that in coffee, such as insomnia, tremors, irritability.
Other benefits:
- - It is used to treat multiple sclerosis
- - It reduces the risk of heart attacks and diseases by reducing the risk of thrombosis.
- - It helps treat inflammations
- - It helps prevent tooth decay
- - It prevents food poisoning
- - It improves urinary function
- - It improves brain functions
- - It is used to encourage hair growth and health
- - It has anti-stress effects
- - It protects the liver from the harmful effects of alcohol
- - It protects the lungs from the harmful effects of smoking
- - It helps preserve bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis
- - It prolongs life.
Since this tea is all natural, there are little to no side effects when drinking it regularly. Compared to black tea, it has a lower caffeine content which means problems such as insomnia; nausea and frequent urination are very rare; however pregnant and breastfeeding women are advised to avoid drinking large quantities, as caffeine crosses the placenta and enters breast milk.
Green tea is a holistic and healthy beverage. The many benefits recommend this tea as a solution for the prevention and treatment of many health problems. You should take advantage of all this benefits and start drinking green tea on a daily basis to improve your overall health and lifestyle.
