Tea is one of the most widely consumed and valued beverages in the entire world. Apart from being delicious refreshment, it has absolutely no calories and has a unique mixture of substances that possess numerous therapeutic benefits. According to scientific and anecdotal evidence, tea, especially green tea, provides antiviral, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-cavity properties.
Green tea consists of fluoride, polyphenols and catechins that are linked to the prevention of tooth decay by killing bacteria in the mouth. Green tea also helps in preventing bad breath, tooth loss and gum disease. According to a study in the European Journal of Nutrition, the consumption of more than one cup of green tea is substantially associated with reduced risk of tooth loss and decay. However, additional flavorings such as sugar, sweeteners or honey can abate such benefits.
According to numerous studies, the consumption of green tea s significantly linked to a lower risk of stroke and heart disease. According to a research published in Harvard, individuals consuming more than one cup of green tea per day have a 44 percent lower risk of suffering from a heart attack as compared to non-drinkers of green tea
Studies show that daily consumption of green tea can aid in the prevention of many cancers, including breast cancer, prostate cancer, pancreatic cancer, colorectal cancer, bladder cancer, esophageal cancer, lung cancer and stomach cancer. The catechins in green tea are known to prevent cell mutation, reduce formation and development of tumors and deactivate carcinogens. In order to benefit from the anti-cancer benefits of green tea, it is important to drink as much as four cups a day.
Regular consumption of green tea, for more than 10 years, has been linked to the reduced risk of osteoporotic fractures. With its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, it can significantly ebb bone loss in the body. Moreover, the health benefits of green tea can diminish bone breakdown, while increasing the activity of bone forming cells in the body.
And finally… weight loss.
Although green tea is famous for its weight loss benefits, there is still not enough evidence that may solidify this theory. However, studies show that the catechins in green tea are involved in thermogenesis, which is the production of heat in the body involved in burning calories.
In one study, individuals taking more than four cups of green tea had a fat oxidation as high as 12 percent, burning an average of 67 more calories than non-drinkers. To raise your metabolic rate and burn calories, you must consume at least 3 cups of green tea per day.
Before you hit the grocery store to pile your shelves with green tea, here are some things you need to know:
- Consume brewed tea instead of instant as it is healthier
- Regular green tea is more beneficial than decaffeinated tea
- Loose leaf tea and tea bags possess the same health benefits
- Brew tea for at least 3 minutes for maximum benefits
Green tea is most likely considered to be safe for most adults and if overdosed (more than 5 cups a day), may lead to mild to severe problems due to caffeine, such as headaches, sleep problems, nervousness, vomiting, irritability, diarrhea, irregular heartbeat, heartburn, tremors, seizures, confusion and dizziness. It may even reduce the absorption of certain foods.
Pregnant and breast feeding women must restrict their dosage to 2 cups a day to prevent negative effects such as miscarriages. If caffeine is present in breast milk, the milk may not to be nutritionally sound for the baby.
