Green Tea

Tea is the most widely consumed beverage in the world. Almost 20% of all tea is produced as a Green Tea. Green Tea is a non-fermented or non-oxidised version of the tea. It means that it is more abundant in antioxidants than other forms of tea. It is especially loved in China and Japan, along with the Middle East. Almost one-third of its dry leaf weight are catechins, a type of polyphenol. Green Tea is also rich in caffeine, has traces of methylxanthines, theobromine, and theophylline. It has many unique amino acids and quinones. Together, these chemicals create its unique flavor.¹^,²

Health Benefits of Green Tea

Good for Brain Health

Green Tea has a stimulating effect due to its content of caffeine. However, its broader influence on mood and mental state may be due to its content of various other phytocompounds. Green Tea is good for improving mood, attention, reaction time, and memory. Recent studies show that it is also rich in L-theanine, which is now widely promoted as a nootropic. L-theanine can help overcome anxiety and have a calming effect. L-theanine works synergistically with caffeine.³
Helps Burn Fat and Lose Body Weight

Consuming Green Tea is among the most recommended natural ways of weight loss without strict dieting. Although it is not clear the exact way it assists, it does seem to help in many cases. Studies show that it may increase energy expenditure during 24 hours after consumption in various ways. It may also boost fat burning and thermogenesis. One may not expect to lose body weight substantially by just consuming Green Tea, but it can be beneficial.⁴^,⁵
Rich in Antioxidants and May Help Prevent Certain Types of Cancers

Population-based studies show the relation between cancer and dietary habits. Some types of cancers are less common in certain population groups. Studies show that Green Tea consumption may help prevent breast cancer, prostate cancer and colorectal cancer.⁶^,⁷^,⁸
Reduces Bad Breath

Consuming Green Tea helps to reduce the risk of bad breath by suppressing microbial overgrowth and can also help due to its content of certain aromatic compounds. Whatever the underlying mechanisms, it seems that Green Tea may help prevent bad breath.⁹
Diabetes Prevention

Green Tea may help improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood glucose levels. A study in Japan reported that those who consumed Green Tea regularly were less probable to have diabetes than those who do not.¹⁰
Reduces the Risk of Heart Disease

Studies show that those who consume Green Tea regularly are less likely to have cardiovascular diseases. Extensive epidemiological data confirm these benefits. Green Tea may also help to boost metabolism, reduce bad cholesterol, and help a person to lose weight due to its high content of antioxidants.¹¹

Side Effects of Green Tea

Since it is one of the most widely consumed beverages globally, one can confidently say that it is very safe. Nonetheless, Green Tea supplements may sometimes cause specific side effects due to high concentration, or due to the presence of additives.

Properties

Antioxidant¹¹
Anxiety³
Brain Function / Neuroprotective³
Cancer Prevention⁶^,⁷^,⁸
Cholesterol¹¹
Diabetes / Blood Sugar¹⁰
Heart Support / Health¹¹
Memory Retention³
Oral Health⁹
Weight Loss / Management⁴^,⁵

References