Green tea is considered one of the most powerful beverages known to man. Native to India and China, the green liquid (scientifically known as Camellia Sinensis) is full of antioxidants and nutrients which provide positive effects on the human body.
Since research studies have confirmed a number of healthy benefits associated with the herbal stimulant, it is widely being used for medicinal purposes. While some of the benefits are hotly debated, the reported list of health improvements for green tea is eye opening.
ENERGY BOOSTER
Naturally caffeinated, green tea gives you an energy boost. You can drink several cups a day and not worry about the caffeine “jitters” or dehydration. Its stimulating impact keeps you awake and alert, enabling increased productivity.
Neutralize your mood swings and fight depression by drinking green tea. Many believe one of the amino acids, theanine, found in the tea provides a tranquilizing impact on the body.
WEIGHT LOSS
The powerful combination of caffeine and catechins is helpful to those seeking to lose weight. Numerous studies conducted on green tea found its fat burning abilities worked both while awake and sleeping. As a result, you can increase the number of calories you burn over time.
CANCER
Studies conducted by the National Cancer Institute have shown the polyphenols in green tea decreased tumor growth in animals. In humans, the antioxidants work to reduce the formation of free radicals in cells and molecular damage which can result in various types of cancer.
HEART DISEASE
A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association in 2006 found drinking at least five cups of green tea per day lowered cardiovascular disease, which can add years to life. Green tea may protect against clot formation, which is the number one cause of heart attacks. The tea also improves some of the risk factors for heart disease and strokes such as cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides.
ANTI-AGING
The antioxidant properties in green tea derived from its caffeine, catechins, and polyphenols have an effect on the aging process. The antioxidants neutralize free radicals present in the human body and can, therefore, delay the signs of aging and wrinkles. Studies conducted on humans and animals show that green tea applied topically can reduce sun damage.
ALZHEIMERS AND PARKINSONS
Green tea may slow down the deterioration of brain cells caused by Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Multiple studies conducted on mice have shown the catechins compounds contained in green tea protect brain cells from dying and restore the damaged cells. Not only does this improve short-term brain function, but also protect the brain as people age.
DENTAL HEALTH
Studies have shown that the catechins in green tea can kill and destroy harmful bacteria, leading to cavities, tooth decay, throat infection and bad breath. It can also inhibit the influenza virus and therefore decrease the risk of infection.
A very concentrated brew of green tea can temporarily relieve toothache pain. The rinse provides relief to the distressed area until a dentist can provide treatment.
IMPROVED BRAIN FUNCTION AND PHYSICAL PERFORMANCE
The caffeine in green tea is a remarkable stimulant. Study after study has shown how caffeine—along with the amino acid L-theanine—works to enhance the function of the brain, memory and reaction time. Yes, green tea can make you smarter.
While the impact on the brain proves favorable, the caffeine in green tea works on improving physical performance the body as well. A side caveat: some studies indicated no increase in metabolic rate, so results may be determined on a case by case basis.
PAIN RELIEVER
Green tea has been proven to be a pain reliever, particularly with arthritis. Drinking hot cups of green tea can temporarily relieve pain. The antioxidant may not actually treat acute pain but can ease the discomfort until you can consult with your physician.
DIABETES
Diabetes continues to increase in our modern-day society, lately reaching epidemic levels. It is a disease that can be characterized as the body’s inability to process food for use as energy. Green tea helps regulate glucose levels which slow down the rise of blood sugar after eating. In a study conducted on the Japanese, consumers of green tea had a 42% lower risk of developing Type II diabetes.
CHOOSE GREEN TEA
If you’re like most women who want to lose weight, feel good and lower the risk of diseases, consider drinking green tea. While it is known for being a refreshing beverage, its various health benefits should not be ignored. Go ahead and exchange your soft drink or coffee for green tea (without swamping it with sugar). When asked about your preference of beverage, a response of “Green tea, please” is quite the healthy choice.
