Nutrition

Green tea: Benefits for health

Q: Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to drink green tea every day? Absolutely! Drinking green tea daily can be a great addition to a healthy lifestyle (up to 8 cups). Packed with antioxidants, it may boost your metabolism and brain functioning and decrease the risk of certain cancers. The catechins found in it are linked to dental health and a lower risk of cardiovascular diseases. It also contains L-theanine, promoting relaxation without drowsiness. However, moderation is vital; excessive consumption may lead to caffeine-related issues or hinder iron absorption. If you’re sensitive to caffeine, consider decaffeinated options. Incorporating green tea into your routine can contribute positively to your well-being. Still, it’s essential to maintain a balanced diet and consult with a medical expert for personalized advice.

Written by : Healthpind Staff
Reviewed by: Mónica Sayuri Ramos Imuro

No beverage is more soothing to your soul, mind, and body than a hot green tea. Green tea is the healthiest drink, and many research studies have confirmed its health benefits. It’s free from sugar, has zero calories, and contains antioxidants. Green tea can help prevent and treat cancer, cardiovascular disease, rheumatoid arthritis, infection, and tooth decay.

A cup of green tea heals, cleanses, and rejuvenates our bodies. Green tea has several bioactive compounds, including caffeine, polyphenols, Vitamin K, and other alkaloids. It can stimulate as well as relaxes our body. Caffeine and theophylline are the central stimulants. At the same time, L-theanine, an amino acid in green tea, has a soothing effect on the mind. Green tea has a high amount of powerful antioxidants called polyphenols. Many of the benefits of green tea may be due to its polyphenol content.

Here is a summary of green tea’s main evidence-based health benefits.

There are chemicals present in our nervous system called neurotransmitters. They act as messengers and affect the stimulation and relaxation of the brain. The amino acid L-theanine in green tea enhances the activity of the neurotransmitter GABA. GABA reduces anxiety effects. It also increases the production of dopamine and the generation of alpha waves in the brain, decreasing stress and aiding relaxation. ^[1]

Green tea can delay aging.

Green tea’s anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties reduce fine lines and wrinkles on the skin. Using green tea and honey as a face mask reduces the aging of the skin and cleanses it of toxins to improve its texture.^[2]

Green tea contains some of the most potent antioxidants. It helps the liver detoxify toxins and other harmful substances in our body. It also protects hepatocytes(liver cells), which play a crucial role in detoxification.

Antioxidants in green tea provide a natural boost to the immune system. Many of the bioactive compounds present in green tea have antiviral and antibacterial abilities. A healthy immune system protects us from many sicknesses, such as the common cold and flu. Even if you become sick, you will recover faster. Research studies demonstrate that people who regularly consume green tea do not easily fall ill due to common bacterial and viral infections.^[3]

Studies confirm that green tea significantly reduces LDL cholesterol concentrations. LDL cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein) harms our body and is called bad cholesterol. A high-quality research study points out that Green tea effectively decreases cholesterol levels to an extent, probably due to its alkaline nature.^[4]

Research has shown that the consumption of green tea is associated with a reduced risk for type 2 diabetes. In Japan, a cohort study found a 33% reduction in the risk of development of type 2 diabetes in persons taking six or more cups of green tea daily as compared to those drinking less than 1 cup per week.

People with Diabetes have decreased sensitivity to insulin. It means insulin is less effective in sending signals to cells to absorb glucose from the bloodstream, raising blood sugar. Green tea can help stabilize and lower blood glucose levels and control diabetes.^[5]

Green tea has a potent antioxidant substance called Catechin. Some Catechins, such as Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), boost our metabolism, burning body fat. Further, EGCG inhibits the functioning of an enzyme, which breaks down the norepinephrine hormone. As a result, the level of norepinephrine in our body increases, which promotes the breakdown of body fat by sending a signal to the fat cells. It is one of the best health benefits of drinking green tea. ^6]

The polyphenols present in green tea are potent antioxidants. They neutralize away the free radicals. Free radicals are responsible for damaging DNA and other cell molecules. In a way, the bioactive substances in green tea control the signals to avoid harmful and uncontrolled multiplication of cells in cancer. Research studies have confirmed that individuals who take green tea daily have a lower risk of cancer, such as oral cancer, prostate cancer, and blood cancer.^[7]

Improves Cardiac & Arterial Health.

Some of the components in green tea can help lower and control blood pressure, reducing coronary heart disease and stroke risk. Green tea enhances the blood’s antioxidant activity exponentially, preventing the heart and blood vessels from oxidative stress. Oxidation stress is one of the main reasons for heart disease.

Studies demonstrate that green tea can help regulate total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides. People who have green tea have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. The heart attack rate decreases significantly with just a few cups of green tea daily.^[8]

One of the chief reasons for humans’ popularity and drinking of tea is its stimulating effect on the brain. This beneficial effect of green tea is due to the caffeine and Theoplhiline in green tea leaves. It also enhances the cognitive function of the brain. The amino acid L-Theanine present in green tea helps reduce your depression. This amino acid aids in the production of substances like serotonin and dopamine. These substances give a feel-good feeling and thus fight depression.^[9]

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to drink green tea every day?
Absolutely! Drinking green tea daily can be a great addition to a healthy lifestyle (up to 8 cups). Packed with antioxidants, it may boost your metabolism and brain functioning and decrease the risk of certain cancers. The catechins found in it are linked to dental health and a lower risk of cardiovascular diseases. It also contains L-theanine, promoting relaxation without drowsiness. However, moderation is vital; excessive consumption may lead to caffeine-related issues or hinder iron absorption. If you’re sensitive to caffeine, consider decaffeinated options. Incorporating green tea into your routine can contribute positively to your well-being. Still, it’s essential to maintain a balanced diet and consult with a medical expert for personalized advice.