Green tea is one of the most famous beverages in the world and for good reasons.
There are helpful nutrients as well as antioxidants in it that are quite beneficial for the human body.
Green tea is good for the brain as well as the heart. Its benefits extend to better eyesight, keeping blood sugar levels low, and preventing Alzheimer’s, among others.
Even though green tea can cause stomach upset and constipation for some people, it is unlikely to have side effects.
Drinking green tea regularly has many amazing advantages. Here are 7 benefits of green tea:
1. Green Tea Has Anti-Aging Properties
Many people consider green tea to be an anti-aging beverage.
Catechins are antioxidants that can be found in green tea.
This anti-oxidant and some other compounds in green tea can lower the risk of stroke, heart disease as well as several cancers. It also slightly boosts the metabolism of the human body.
2. It Protects The Heart
Flavan-3-ols and anthocyanidin antioxidants are found in green tea. Many studies have proven that these are very good for cardiovascular health. They also help the metabolism.
There are also 10 beta-blocking compounds, seven calcium channel blockers, and 16 diuretic compounds in green tea. They help prevent some of the risk factors for heart disease (high blood pressure, cholesterol levels, etc.)
3. Green Tea Improves Brain Functions
The caffeine found in green tea blocks an inhibitory neurotransmitter called Adenosine.
Through this process, caffeine grows the firing of neurons and the concentration of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and norepinephrine.
Green tea also has the amino acid L-theanine. This increases dopamine and the production of alpha waves in the brain and also helps reduce anxiety.
4. It Helps Prevent Diabetes
Some studies have found that green tea intake can normalize blood sugar levels.
There are properties like flavan-3-ols and/or anthocyanidins found in green tea. They may improve glycemic control.
It contains anti-inflammatory properties that help people at risk or diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.
The EGCG in the catechins of green tea has antidiuretic as well as anti-obesity effects.
5. Green Tea Improves Physical Performance
Many studies show that green tea improves the metabolism of the human body.
The caffeine in green tea improves physical performance. It makes the fatty acids available for use as energy.
Several studies have shown that caffeine increases physical performance by 11-12%, on average.
6. It Protects Vision
Green tea can protect you from eye diseases like glaucoma.
The compound catechins that are found in green tea can protect the eyes from oxidative damage and vision loss. Green tea consumption could benefit the eye against oxidative stress.
7. Green Tea Promotes Bone Health
Green tea catechins, especially EGC can stimulate an enzyme that promotes bone growth by 79 percent.
EGC can also weaken the activity of osteoclasts. It increases the level of bone mineralization in the cells, which strengthens bones.
ECG does not have any adverse effect on the bones, so it is safe to put in your body.
8. It Kills Bacteria
Catechins in green tea can kill bacteria and inhibit viruses like the influenza virus. It can also potentially lower your risk of infections.
Streptococcus mutans is a harmful virus that lives in our mouths. It can cause harm to our oral hygiene, for example, plaque formation, cavity, tooth decay, etc.
Studies indicate catechins in green tea can inhibit the growth of this virus.
9. Green Tea Prevents Cancer
Cancer is caused by the uncontrollable growth of cells.
Green tea contributes to reducing the risk of it.
Numerous studies have shown that people who drink green tea, are less likely to develop many types of cancer.
10. It Prevents Alzheimer’s Or Memory Loss
In some studies, green tea prevented the breakdown of acetylcholine, the neurotransmitter strongly linked with memory.
Other studies have shown that green tea inhibits enzymes known as BuChE and beta-secretase which are found in Alzheimer’s patients.
Making Green Tea Tasty
Most people don’t like the taste of green tea. Here are a few tips to make your tea taste better:
- Teabags of green tea are fine, but loose leaves are of better quality. It is better to drink natural green tea instead of the pre-prepared bottled or processed powdered version.
- Heat your water until it boils. Remove it from the heat and let it cool for a few seconds. Then add the loose leaves for better taste.
- Brew the water for green tea for about 3-4 minutes before adding tea leaves.
- Try the flavored green tea options.
- You can add fresh mint for a refreshing flavor.
Things to Consider While Making Green Tea
- Do not over steep your tea. Or else you will get a bitter taste.
- Do not add milk to your green tea. It will make it harder for your body to absorb.
- Do not drink it way too often. It contains caffeine that can be harmful if taken a lot. Overconsumption can have harmful effects on your body.
Final Thoughts
While green tea has numerous health benefits, most people don’t like it due to its bitter taste.
However, there are ways to make this healthy beverage a tasty one. You can try some tasty recipes or opt for the flavored ones.
Remember, anything excess can be harmful to your health, even if it’s green tea. That’s why try to drink this beverage moderately.
