Are you looking to improve your health or drop a few kilos? If yes, then green tea really deserves your full attention.
Here are a few amazing health benefits of green tea that have been confirmed in several scientific studies.
Enhances Memory and Learning Ability
Several studies have found that green tea enhances your memory and improves learning abilities. It has antioxidants like polyphenols and epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), which help in improving cognitive functions. It contains less caffeine than coffee, but enough to improve your mood, vigilance, reaction time, and memory without the adverse effects of coffee. It contains amino acid L-theanine that works in synergy with caffeine, and helps to improve brain function.
Protects Against Cancer
Green tea contains numerous antioxidants like polyphenols and flavonoids. One such class of flavonoids called Catechins is known to possess anti-cancer properties. Green tea has three times more Catechins than black tea and is the best source of Catechins in your diet. Laboratory studies have shown that green tea either slows or completely prevents the cancer in colon, breast, liver, and prostate cells. Besides, it has shown similar results for cancer in lung tissues, digestive tract, and skin.
Helps Lose Weight
Green tea is one of the top contenders among fat burning supplements. It increases the fat burning rate and improves metabolism rate. Laboratory studies have revealed that green tea increases the rate of fat oxidation by as much as 17%. It has the ability to increase the oxidation of fat. It also increases the rate of energy expenditure by 4%. Therefore, adding one or more cups of green tea to your regular diet can help you lose weight.
Lowers the Risk of Diabetes
Green tea consists of polyphenols and polysaccharides that are effective in lowering blood sugar levels. Studies have shown that EGCG present in green tea influences the way in which glucose is absorbed in the body. Studies have also shown that Catechins found in green tea reduce the amount of glucose that passes through the intestines into the bloodstream. The polyphenols in green tea reduce the amount of amylase, an enzyme that converts starch into sugar, thereby decreasing the levels of blood sugar.
Reduces Cholesterol
Oxidation of LDL (Low Density Lipoprotein) or 'bad' cholesterol leads to cardio vascular diseases. Green tea increases the antioxidant capability of blood that prevents the oxidation of LDL cholesterol particles. Besides, it boosts HDL (High Density Lipoprotein) or 'good' cholesterol that helps in sweeping away the bad cholesterol from the arteries, thereby preventing clogged arteries. Laboratory studies have shown that green tea drinkers have a 31% lower risk of contracting cardiovascular diseases.
Improves Oral Health
Catechins present in green tea have the ability to kill bacteria and fight viruses, thereby improving oral health. Streptococcus bacteria found primarily in the mouth leads to formation of cavities, plaque, and overall tooth decay. Catechins hinder the growth of streptococcus mutants leading to better oral health. Regularly drinking green tea protects against cavities, gum diseases, and bad breath. Studies have shown that individuals who drank green tea had a significantly lower rate of oral cancer.
Protects Skin
Excessive exposure of the skin to Ultraviolet (UV) radiations is one of the major causes of skin diseases including skin cancer. According to a study published in British Journal of Nutrition, Catechins present in green tea can make you more resistant to UV radiations and avoid premature ageing. Laboratory studies have found that oral doses of green tea can make their way to skin cells and limit the effect of UV rays, thereby protecting against sunburn inflammation and other UV triggered skin damages.
If you are serious about your health, you cannot afford to miss a sip of this super drink.