Green tea has been consumed for centuries and is linked with a number of health benefits. Green tea is rich in antioxidants, which can protect against cell damage and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer. Green tea also contains caffeine and other substances that can improve mental alertness. Camellia sinensis leaves are used to make green tea. It is a plant native to Asia. The leaves are dried and then steamed, which preserves their color and flavor. Green tea has a slightly bitter taste and is usually drunk without milk or sugar.
Green tea contains high levels of antioxidants called catechins. Antioxidants are substances that help protect cells from damage. One type of catechin in green tea, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), is especially potent. EGCG can inhibit the growth of cancer cells and may help kill them. Green tea also contains caffeine, which can improve mental alertness and vigilance. However, green tea contains less caffeine when compared to coffee or black tea.
Most of the health benefits of green tea are thought to be due to the high level of antioxidants. However, green tea also contains other substances that may be beneficial. For example, green tea contains the amino acid L-theanine, which can promote relaxation without causing drowsiness.
Green tea is a popular beverage worldwide. It is usually consumed as a hot drink, but it is also available in cold varieties such as iced green tea and powdered green tea. Green tea is also used as a flavoring agent in some foods and beverages, such as ice cream, cakes, and smoothies.
Green Tea Helps in Weight Loss
Green tea is rich in antioxidants and nutrients that can boost your metabolism and help your body burn fat. A study conducted on rats showed that green tea extract increases the rats’ levels of norepinephrine – a hormone that helps to break down fat. Drinking green tea regularly can also help you lose weight and lower your risk of developing obesity and other chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
Role of Green Tea in Improving Heart Health
There is some evidence that green tea consumption may be associated with a reduced risk of heart disease. Green tea contains polyphenols, which are thought to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These properties may help protect the heart by reducing low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels and inflammation. According to a study of over 72,000 adults in Japan, those who drank one or more cups of green tea per day were 26 percent less likely to die of cardiovascular disease over an 11-year period than those who drank just one cup per day. Similar findings have been seen in animal studies. While the evidence is not definitive, it is possible that green tea consumption may be associated with a reduced risk of heart disease. If you are interested in trying green tea, be sure to purchase it from a reputable source and brew it according to package directions.
Green Tea and Diabetes
Green tea is effective in reducing Type-2 diabetes mellitus and associated complications. The main mechanism by which green tea exerts its anti-diabetic effect is by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing blood sugar levels. Green tea also reduces the risk of developing complications such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease.
Green Tea Reduces the Risk of Cancer
Green tea is effective in reducing the risk of various types of cancer, including breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and colorectal cancer. The main mechanism by which green tea exerts its anti-cancer effect is by inhibiting the growth and spread of cancer cells. Green tea also reduces the risk of developing other cancers such as skin cancer and prostate cancer.
Green Tea Improves Brain Function
Green tea is effective in improving brain function and reducing the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and other age-related cognitive decline. The main mechanism by which green tea exerts its beneficial effect on brain function is by improving blood circulation and providing antioxidant protection to the brain cells. Green tea also reduces the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease.
Green Tea Reduces Inflammation
Green tea is effective in reducing inflammation and associated diseases such as arthritis, asthma, and allergies. It inhibits the production of inflammatory cytokines. Green tea also reduces the risk of developing obesity and metabolic syndrome.