Green tea is a zero-calorie beverage if it is consumed in the form of an unsweetened brewed drink. It is available in many types, including bottled tea, single tea bags, loose leaf tea, instant powder tea, and green tea supplements. It has relatively lesser caffeine than black tea or coffee and is considered one of the healthiest drinks because of its high antioxidant content.
Some of its many benefits are listed below:
1. Prevents Cancer
Green tea has polyphenols that help reduce tumor growth and may protect against UVB radiation too. In populations, where consumption of Green tea is high, cancer rates are lower than where its consumption is low. It helps prevent cancers of breast, bladder, ovaries, lung, esophagus, prostate, skin and stomach.
2. Heart Health
Green tea has catechins which exert numerous protective effects, particularly on the cardiovascular system. A Japanese study shows that mortality (especially due to cardiovascular diseases) is low in those who consumed green tea regularly.
3. Lowers Cholesterol
Consumption of Green Tea is linked with significant yet modest reductions in cholesterol levels. It lowers the total and LDL or bad cholesterol levels thus keeping the arteries in good health.
4. Type 2 Diabetes
Some studies claim that regular consumption of green tea helps prevent the onset of Type 2 Diabetes.
5. Weight Loss
Many people have been drinking green tea to accelerate their weight loss process. Although clinically the effect of Green tea is not yet established, the possible explanation could be its help in fat metabolism which leads to quicker weight loss.
6. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
A 2007 study held evidence of green tea being related to a reduction in skin problems like psoriasis and dandruff. It helps with any skin condition related to inflammation. It detoxifies the body to get rid of toxins causing inflammation.
7. Alzheimer’s Disease
Green tea can enhance cognitive functions like working memory. It can be promising in the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders like dementia. It reduces the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, chronic fatigue, PTSD, etc.
