6 Amazing Health Benefits of Drinking Green Tea
Green tea is known around the globe to be one of the healthiest drinks in history. Not only is it loaded with antioxidants, but there may be even more potential health benefits.
Green tea has a range of possible health benefits.
To help you feel better, lose weight, and lower your risk of chronic diseases, you may want to consider making green tea a regular part of your life.
Below is a list of 6 reasons why you should start drinking green tea:
1. Healthy Bioactive Compounds
The green tea plant contains a range of healthy compounds that make it into the final drink.
Green tea contains a catechin called epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG). Catechins are natural antioxidants that help prevent cell damage and provide other benefits.
These substances can reduce the formation of free radicals in the body, protecting cells and molecules from damage. These free radicals play a role in aging and many types of diseases.
2. Improves Brain Function
Green tea does more than just keep you alert, it may also help boost brain function.
The key active ingredient is caffeine, which is a known stimulant.
Research has consistently shown that caffeine can improve various aspects of brain function, including mood, vigilance, reaction time, and memory.
However, caffeine isn’t the only brain-boosting compound in green tea. It also contains amino acid L-theanine, which can cross the blood-brain barrier.
Many people report having more stable energy and being much more productive when they drink green tea, compared with coffee.
3. Packed With Antioxidants
Research has shown that oxidative damage can lead to chronic inflammation, which can lead to chronic diseases, including cancers. Antioxidants can help protect against oxidative damage.
Green tea is an excellent source of powerful antioxidants.
To get the most health benefits, avoid adding milk to your tea. Some studies suggest it can reduce the antioxidant value in some teas.
4. Brain Aging Protection
Alzheimer’s disease is a common neurodegenerative disease and the most common cause of dementia in older adults.
Parkinson’s disease is another common neurodegenerative disease and involves the death of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain.
Several studies show that the catechin compounds in green tea can have various protective effects on neurons in test tubes and animal models, possibly lowering the risk of dementia.
5. Steady Weight Loss
Several studies show that green tea may help reduce body fat, especially in the abdominal area.
One of these studies was a 12-week randomised controlled study involving 240 people with obesity.
In this study, those in the green tea group had significant decreases in body fat percentage, body weight, waist circumference, and belly fat, compared with those in the control group.
6. Longer Life Expectancy
Given that some compounds in green tea may help protect against cancer and heart disease, it makes sense that it could help you live longer.
Those who drank the most green tea – 5 or more cups per day – were significantly less likely to die during the study period:
- Death of all causes: 23% lower in women, 12% lower in men
- Death from heart disease: 31% lower in women, 22% lower in men
- Death from stroke: 42% lower in women, 35% lower in men
Conclusion
In conclusion, the health benefits of green tea are truly impressive. From its rich antioxidant content to its potential to support heart health, weight management, brain function, diabetes management, and even cancer protection, green tea offers a wide range of advantages for those who incorporate it into their daily routine. To reap these benefits, opt for high-quality green tea and enjoy it as a refreshing beverage, hot or cold. As with any dietary addition, it’s important to remember that green tea is most effective when complemented by a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.
Remember, while green tea can be a valuable part of a healthy routine, individual responses may vary. Consulting a healthcare professional before making significant dietary changes is recommended, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions or those taking medications. With its amazing health benefits, green tea has the potential to be your new favorite go-to drink for overall well-being.
By incorporating the knowledge shared in this article, you can take a step closer to a healthier and more vibrant lifestyle. So, why not brew yourself a cup of green tea and start savouring its numerous advantages today? Your body and mind will thank you for it.