Going green is perhaps one of the wisest moves that you can make. It is packed with antioxidants that help boost the immune system and fight free-radical damage. The brewing and drinking of green tea originated in China, however today this healthy beverage is enjoyed throughout Asia and the Western world.
Green tea is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. The leaves used to produce green tea , however, do not undergo the same drying and oxidation process as black tea .This fact makes green tea a healthier option. It can be enjoyed hot, cold or even in powdered form.
How much is optimal?
Harvard health Publications recommends drinking a few cups of green tea each day to gain its benefits and says that in tea-drinking cultures, 3 cups per day is a normal amount. This supplies you with 240 to 320 milligrams of polyphenols. If the taste is not to your liking, you can consider a good quality supplement. it is advisable not to give children green tea as not enough research has been done to determine safety and efficacy.
Antioxidant activity
Green tea’s popularity is largely due to the health and vitality benefits it carries due to its high antioxidant and nutrient content. It is rich in natural plant compounds called polyphenols. The major polyphenols in green tea are flavonoids, the most active of which are catechins and epigallocatechin gallate [EGCG] which function as powerful antioxidants. These antioxidants are known to protect the body against disease and are an important part of a healthy diet. As part of a balanced diet, green tea can be a good source of antioxidants.
Heart Health Benefit
Consuming green tea may protect you against cardiovascular disease as well as stroke .Clinical studies on drinking green tea have found that it helps lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. The powerful antioxidant properties of green tea prevents the oxidation of LDL particles which is a cause of heart disease.
Reducing the risk of Diabetes
According to the World Health Organisation , ‘The number of people with diabetes has risen from 108 million in 1980 to 420 million in 2014’.
The catechins [antioxidants] present in green tea help reduce the effect of insulin resistance by decreasing the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates .Green tea also contains a powerful antioxidant polyphenol that may have anti- inflammatory properties.
Improved Cognitive function
Green tea contains caffeine, although not as much as coffee , which increases neuron activity and the concentration of neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine. However , green tea also contains the amino acid L-theanine, which increases the activity of the neurotransmitter GABA, which has anti anxiety effects. Studies has suggested that caffeine and L-theanine can have synergistic effects. The combination of the two is particularly effective at improving brain function.
Weight Loss
If you look at the ingredients list for any fat burning supplement ,chances are that green tea will be on there. This is primarily because clinical studies have shown that green tea may ‘boost metabolism and help burn fat’. Another study showed that fat oxidation was increased by 17% , suggesting that green tea may selectively increase the burning of fat.
Green tea is considered one of the healthiest beverages; containing the highest antioxidants that may well protect you against the onset of disease. So why not consider making green tea a regular part of your life by drinking it every day? Here’s to your good health!
