5 Health Benefits Of Drinking Green Tea

Tea is the most widely consumed beverage in the world second to water. Tea leaves can be classified into different forms, but the clear winner will always be green tea owing to its rich composition and tremendous benefits. There is a lot more to a cup of green tea than its mild flavor, characteristic bitterness, and stimulating effect.

The origin of green tea can be traced back to its roots in the Yunnan Province of China, home to about 260 species of tea. Unlike in the West, the word “tea” in China refers specifically to green tea.

According to a popular myth, the discovery of tea as a beverage was documented around 2737 BC during the reign of Shennong, the then Emperor of China, when a few tea leaves from a nearby tree of the Camellia sinensis fell into his cup of boiled water and gave it a dark color and a refreshing taste.

Some legends around 500 BC accredited the discovery of tea to the Buddhists traveling between India and China. They spread the ritual of tea as a substitute for alcohol and soon tea ceremonies became a spiritual and social practice across China.

# Helps Maintain Body Weight

Those who are health conscious or trying to lose weight can consume green tea for its weight loss benefits and positive overall health effects.

Animal-based studies have shown that green tea controlled blood cholesterol and fat mass gain in high-fat-diet-induced obese rodents. Some, but not all, human studies also suggest that green tea may have a beneficial role in weight loss.

A study supports the minor but synergistic impact of catechins and an EGCG-caffeine mixture on body weight by considering the parameters of weight management and weight loss. It was suggested that the effect of catechins may be influenced by the moderating factors of habitual caffeine intake and ethnicity.

# Reduces Cholesterol Levels

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in the US. There is a strong need to lower the risks of heart disease. High blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels are important risk factors for heart disease.

The oxidation of low-density cholesterol (LDL) can cause plaque formation in the arteries, which is a risk factor for heart diseases and stroke. Green tea, by way of its antioxidant properties, prevents the oxidation of LDL.

Studies show that green tea consumption can reduce total blood cholesterol and bad cholesterol (LDL) levels.

# Boosts Brain Health

Our brains require a healthy blood vessel system to function efficiently.

A study has corroborated the effect of green tea on the brain. Regularly drinking green tea has exhibited a positive impact on the activity of the working and memory areas of the brain.

Green tea contains bioactive compounds, including EGCG, that have been linked to a protective effect on neurons and a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease, the two most common neurodegenerative disorders.

A review suggests that the effect green tea on brain health is not just from one compound in green tea but from a combined influence of all components.

# Promotes Oral Health

Green tea consumption is associated with improved dental health and a lower risk of cavities. The polyphenols, antioxidants, and natural fluoride content in green tea can effectively kill the bacteria that cause bad breath, tooth decay, cavities, and various gum diseases.

A study supported the antibacterial activity of green tea in the oral cavity in the reduction of the aforementioned oral afflictions. The antioxidant activity of green tea has also been linked to a reduced risk of oral cancer.

To reap the oral benefits of green tea, avoid adding sugar, honey, or other sweeteners to the tea.

# Brings a Dip in Blood Sugar Levels

Green tea has been shown to enhance insulin sensitivity in vitro and in human studies. Green tea consumption, as well as overall caffeine intake, is associated with a lowered risk of type 2 diabetes.

Long-term green tea intake was associated with lower fasting blood glucose levels in a study conducted on an elderly population in the Mediterranean islands.

Some studies show that daily consumption of green tea may help control type 2 diabetes. However, chronic green tea intake has also been shown to result in possible liver damage.

The way green tea impacts human health for diabetes risk still needs more research.