Over the past few years, there has been an explosion in the consumption of green tea worldwide, especially among fitness enthusiasts. However, green tea has historically been preferred as a healthy beverage for relaxation and restoration.
Green tea contains 20-45% polyphenols by weight, of which 60-80% is catechins – these help improve brain function, fat loss, lower risk of cancer, etc. Let’s learn more about the seven amazing scientifically-backed health benefits of drinking green tea in the article below.
Camellia sinensis plant leaves, which are also used to prepare other tea types like oolong and black tea, are used to prepare green tea. However, what differentiates green tea from other tea types is that it is minimally oxidised instead of being subject to heavy withering and oxidation like the rest.
Since green tea is processed using methods like basket-frying, sun-drying, steaming, tumbling, etc., it retains a high quantity of polyphenols that are packed with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which, according to research, contribute to a multitude of health benefits.
7 Benefits of Drinking Green Tea That You Must Know
1. Green Tea Protects Your Heart
Catechins in green tea are flavonoids that help in lowering plaque formation in arteries. They also lower the levels of LDL or bad cholesterol, thereby improving lipid profiles.& As the blood flow to your heart improves, your overall heart health also gets better.
A total of nine studies[1] were reviewed in 2016 that showed that people who consumed up to three cups of green tea everyday had a reduced risk of heart attack and stroke. Moreover, individuals who consumed 10 cups showed lower LDL levels than those who consumed 3 cups.
2. Green Tea Benefits for Weight Loss
Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and caffeine are compounds that are found in green tea, which can effectively break down the fat cells in the body and increase the metabolic rate of the body.
Caffeine has been shown to help with fat burning as it boosts fat-burning hormones, such as norepinephrine, which directs fat cells to flow into the bloodstream rather than get stored in the body.
A 2020 study[2] showed that consuming green tea can lower belly fat and body mass index in obese individuals. Even women suffering from PCOS can enjoy green tea's benefits for weight loss, as a study concluded that consuming green tea can effectively lower stubborn weight. However, the dosage limit for such weight loss has yet to be determined.
3. Green Tea May Lower Cancer Risk
Polyphenols present in green tea are rich in antioxidants and flavonoids (a polyphenol) that effectively scavenge for free radicals in the body.
Among the benefits of drinking green tea is that it may reduce the risk of cancer, as these antioxidants contribute to lowering oxidative stress and protecting the tissues and cells of the body. This is because oxidative stress causes inflammation, which can further lead to the development of cancer in the body.
4. Green Tea Benefits for Stomach – Will Make Good Gut Bacteria Thrive
Green tea may improve your gut health as it contains polyphenols that provide fuel to good gut bacteria. When these good gut bacteria thrive and multiply, they enhance gut function. Thus, green tea's benefits for the stomach may include improving liver enzymes, treating peptic ulcers and reducing inflammatory bowel disease
Again, catechins present in green tea get condensed or oxidised into thearubigins and theaflavins at the time of fermentation. Also, more catechins are found in green tea compared to oolong or black tea, especially EGCG or epigallocatechin gallate.
Studies show that this EGCG contains anti-cancer properties that can help prevent gastrointestinal diseases like colorectal and pancreatic cancer.
5. Neurodegenerative Diseases May be Prevented with Green Tea Consumption
High concentrations of antioxidants in green tea can possibly protect against diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. The polyphenols’ activity of scavenging free radicals prevents reactive oxygen species from damaging DNA cells.
This damage of cells can result in neurodegenerative illnesses, which are prevented by the protection of the cells by the antioxidants.
6. Green Tea May Lower the Risk of Diabetes
One of the major advantages of green tea is that it can effectively stabilise the level of blood sugar in the body. Research shows that green tea can help the body maintain steady levels of blood sugar. It could be because the EGCG prevents starch breakdown, which otherwise can lead to an increase in blood sugar.
Short-term studies[3] have also found that green tea can lower sugar levels in the fasting state, which shows that drinking green tea can be helpful in regulating sugar levels in the body.
7. Green Tea May Offer Relief from Stress
Green tea contains l-theanine that works its way through neurotransmitters like GABA and glutamate to calm the nerves. This calming effect results in relief from stress. Moreover, it contributes to dopamine release and alpha wave production in the brain, which produces a relaxed and pleasant state of mind.
Clinical research has found that l-theanine can effectively enhance various brain functions, including attention, cognition, mood, reaction time, vigilance and memory. Some individuals experience enhanced focus for better productivity after consuming green tea, compared to coffee, which contains three times more caffeine.
Advantages of Green Tea - Nutrient Profile
Vitamin C
As an antioxidant, it boosts collagen formation and immunity to help you stay healthy as well as youthful.
Caffeine
Consuming caffeine in a healthy amount can help you with alertness. It also acts as a natural diuretic (mild).
Fluorine
This chemical element contributes to preventing tooth decay.
Vitamin E
It safeguards the body from free radicals, which can otherwise cause damage to the tissues and organs.
Saponins
As naturally occurring compounds, they are anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal in nature.
Folic Acid
This nutrient is required for the production of Red Blood Cells in the body, which carry oxygen to different parts of the body.
Green tea has potential health benefits. Because it is hydrating and refreshing, consuming this beverage can be significantly beneficial for your health. However, not all medical situations can be avoided by drinking green tea, which is why you should consider investing in health insurance.
Also Read:
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Conclusion
The health benefits of green tea make it one of the healthiest beverages available, and it is a perfect addition to a healthy lifestyle. Studies suggest that regular consumption can have a positive effect on skin health, help with weight loss and reduce the risk of heart disease, among many other benefits.
Green tea can surely help you maintain good health, but it cannot insure you against medical inflation. To do so, you have to get a health insurance policy. A health insurance policy covers you against ever-increasing medical and hospitalisation expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it true that green tea helps improve oral health?
Yes, green tea contains flavonoids and tannins, which may aid in improved oral health. Also, the antibacterial properties of green tea can contribute to suppressing dental cavity development.&
How much green tea is recommended for daily consumption?
Green tea must be consumed in moderation for maximum health benefits. 2-3 cups of green tea is recommended for daily consumption.
