When we talk about healthy alternatives to coffee and tea, green tea tops the list. Green tea is known to be the healthiest beverage and can be had as tea or as matcha powder. The leaves, as well as the powder, are also used in cooking.
Green tea is unlike any other tea as it provides various health benefits. It not only aids in weight loss but may also protect you from heart diseases. It is also known to increase brain function. While these are just a few, there are other health benefits this beverage offers. Let us have a look at some of the possible health benefits green tea provides.
Evidence-Based Benefits of Green Tea
1. Filled with antioxidants
Studies conducted have shown that green tea is filled with polyphenol antioxidants that help reduce body inflammation. These are the kind of antioxidants that provide protection to the cells, avoiding damage and various types of chronic illnesses.
2. May enhance brain health
Though green tea has a good amount of caffeine in it, it also contains L-theanine, an amino acid that provides a very calming effect. Studies have shown that this unique combination of L-theanine and caffeine can also improve brain functions, enhance memory, and keep you calm and happy. It can even counter and protect from oxidative stress.
3. May help with weight management
Studies conducted on both animals and humans have shown that green tea increases metabolism and thus stimulates the burning of stubborn fat too. Green tea is also known to curb appetite and prevent fat gain using a process called angiogenesis. Angiogenesis is a process where new and healthy blood vessels are formed, which affects the growth of the fat tissue.
4. Increases immunity
The antioxidants present in green tea enhances immunity with their antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. Studies have also shown that the antibacterial properties present in green tea help fight bad breath too. It also has prebiotic properties and is good for gut health.
5. Improves bone density
As we already know, green tea is filled with antioxidants and these are known to prevent bone loss, and reduce any risk of fractures. A few studies conducted on animals have shown that a decent intake of green tea is beneficial for bone health and that it increased the quality and strength of the bones.
6. May balance the blood sugar levels
A few analysts have studied the relationship between blood sugar levels and green tea. The study has shown that green tea has some favorable effects and has helped reduce blood sugar levels including fasting, and Hb A1C.
A study conducted in Japan (on adults) has also shown that regular consumption of green tea reduces the risk of diabetes. It can be said that the unique properties of green tea have a lot of healing and immune-boosting properties that protect against various illnesses.
7. Is good for heart health
Experts are in awe of the positive effects green tea provides when consumed regularly. Regular intake of green tea is known to be good for heart health as it reduces cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood fats. Green tea is also known to prevent the oxidation process of LDL and is also known to decrease the risk of heart strokes.
8. Protects from the aging of the skin
The polyphenols that exist in green tea protect our skin from the harmful effect of ultraviolet rays. This in turn prevents aging of the skin and enriches it with its anti-inflammatory properties. The tea also helps the skin defend against wrinkles as they can easily break down elastic fibers and collagen.
9. Prevents cancer
The antioxidant properties of green tea, the existence of polyphenols aid in the process of angiogenesis. Due to this, regular intake of green tea supports the formation of new blood vessels and enhances cell health and growth.
10. Is always connected to longevity
Studies have also shown that people who regularly drink green tea are known to have a much younger biological age when compared to non-drinkers. A few of the studies have also indicated that the reason for a longer life span in a few villages in Japan is due to drinking green tea.
How to make the perfect cup of Green Tea?
Making that perfect cup of green tea is no rocket science. All you need to do is to pay a little attention to how you make it. Make sure to pick a high-quality tea and brew it at 170-185 degrees Fahrenheit. When you don't have a thermometer handy, just boil the water well, and let it cool down for a few minutes. To this, add your teabag, and leave it to steep for 3-4 minutes. Remove the teabag and enjoy a hot cup of green tea, and enjoy its benefits.
Conclusion
Green tea is not just perfect for those who are looking for flavor but is the right tea if you wish to stay healthy and active for long. As green tea has some amounts of caffeine in it, make sure to have it at least a few hours before you hit the bed.