I absolutely adore tea. It is a treat I look forward to every day is a cup of green tea. And the benefits of green tea nutrition keeps me reaching for my favorite jasmine tea throughout the day!
We have known for centuries the health benefits of tea, it has been only recently that the medicinal properties been scientifically studied.
The health benefits are largely due to its high content of antioxidants. It is the best food source of a group called catechins. Catechins may be more powerful than vitamins C and E in halting oxidative damage to cells. One of the more powerful antioxidants is Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG), which has been studied to treat various diseases and may be one of the main reasons green tea has such powerful medicinal properties.
These substances can reduce the formation of free radicals in the body, protecting cells and molecules from damage. These free radicals are known to play a role in aging and all sorts of diseases.
Green tea nutrition also has small amounts of minerals that are important for health.*
Green Tea Extract Benefits**
Weight Loss – Green tea has been shown to increase fat burning and boost the metabolic rate. There are many studies to demonstrate this, however, some studies don’t show a increase in metabolism, so the effects may be individual. If you look at any OTC weight loss product, green tea is likely to be in it.
Brain Health – Caffeine consistently leads to improvements in various aspects of brain function, including improved mood, vigilance, reaction time and memory.
It also has the amino acid L-theanine. L-theanine increases has anti-anxiety effects. It also increases dopamine and the production of alpha waves in the brain.
Studies show that caffeine and L-theanine can have synergistic effects. The combination of the two is particularly potent at improving brain function.
Multiple studies show that the catechin compounds in green tea can have various protective effects, potentially lowering the risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Diseases.
Cancer – Because of its powerful antioxidants, studies have found an association between consuming green tea nutrients and a reduced risk for several cancers, including, skin, breast, lung, colon, esophageal, and bladder.
Dental Care – Streptococcus mutans is the primary harmful bacteria in the mouth. It causes plaque formation and is a leading contributor to cavities and tooth decay.
Studies show that the catechins in green tea can inhibit the growth of streptococcus mutans. Green tea consumption is associated with improved dental health.
Diabetes – Studies show that green tea can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar levels. According to a review of 7 studies with a total of 286,701 individuals, green tea drinkers had an 18% lower risk of becoming diabetic.
Flu – Some studies show that they can kill bacteria and inhibit viruses like the influenza virus, potentially lowering your risk of infections.
Heart Health – The antioxidants in green tea nutrition can help block the oxidation of LDL (bad) cholesterol, increase HDL (good) cholesterol and improve artery function. Given the beneficial effects on risk factors, it is not surprising to see that green tea drinkers have up to a 31% lower risk of cardiovascular disease.
How Many Cups per Day?
The dosage seems to be still out there in question however, green tea drinking cultures would say the usual amount is three cups per day. Allow tea to steep for three to five minutes to bring out its catechins and drink the tea fresh. Avoid decaffeinated, bottled ready-to-drink tea preparations, and instant teas as they have less of these catechins. Fresh is BETTER!
Adding milk to your tea can reduce the antioxidant properties.
Green tea can impede the absorption of iron from fruits and vegetables. Adding lemon or drinking tea between meals will counteract this problem.
*www.health.harvard.edu
**www.authoritynutrition.com
