True Health Benefits of Green Tea - How Green Tea Can Help You
Ancient peoples in the Southeast part of Asia used green tea some 5,000 years ago. This
beverage was attributed various medicinal properties and was used for the treatment of different diseases.
Western scientists are now beginning to discover the medicinal properties of green tea. So far,
they have revealed a lot of its excellent health benefits that anyone can take advantage of.
Perhaps the most striking health benefit of green tea is that it can protect you from cancer. The leaves of the
Camellia Sinensis plant contain various antioxidants in abundant quantities. These powerful chemicals are very well
preserved after processing. A group of antioxidants called catechins and one of them in particular,
epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), can actually inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
Various scientific studies have confirmed this finding. In most cases, cancer cells were treated directly with
EGCG. That is why the scientists have not determined yet how much of this catechin is necessary to prevent cancer
in humans. Still, tests on breast cancer patients have shown that those consuming green tea are less likely to
experience reoccurrence of the condition. Another study has shown that women drinking the beverage are 50% less
likely to develop this kind of cancer. Generally, green tea is considered to be beneficial for the prevention of
breast, ovarian, colorectal, and pancreatic and skin cancer.
The catechins in green tea combat the free radicals formed in the body due to oxidation. The free radicals are
responsible for cell damage and aging. As the antioxidants protect the cells from them, they can effectively
protect you from diseases associated with aging. One of the most notable examples is arthritis, which damages the
joints and causes severe pain while obstructing movement. It has been discovered that some of the catechins in
green tea can actually prevent the chemical reactions causing joint damage. The most notable proof is that much
fewer people in Asian countries where green tea consumption is abundant suffer from arthritis than in the rest of
the world.
The anti-aging properties of green tea have an extremely beneficial effect for the liver and for the heart. The
drinking of the brewed beverage can protect you from cirrhosis. It can also reduce your risk of heart attack and
stroke. The chemical compounds in green tea make the blood vessels more flexible and protect them from hardening
which is associated with aging. In addition, the antioxidants reduce the level of cholesterol in the arteries. In
this way, they are prevented from clogging which can lead to heart attack and stroke. Furthermore, green tea can
regulate the blood sugar levels and protect you from diabetes.
More detailed studies are necessary, but scientists believe that EGCG and the other green tea catechins can
offer protection against harmful brain diseases. One study has found that the brain plaque which causes Alzheimer’s
can be reduced by some 54% in mice which have the disease. Another study has revealed that green tea can aid the
transferring of dopamine between the different parts of the brain. This can prevent Parkinson’s disease which is
characterized by the lack of dopamine in certain parts of the brain.
Scientists have discovered that green tea has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It can be used for
the treatment of different types of skin and other infections including acne. These properties of the herbal
product can also boost the immunity and give better protection from viruses like influenza.
Green tea contains L-theanine. This powerful amino acid can stimulate the brain to produce alpha brain waves.
When the brain is in an alpha state you are more relaxed yet more alert at the same time. For this reason, green
tea is recommended in cases of depression, increased anxiety and stress. It can also aid concentration and
learning. In fact, there are studies which indicate that green tea can be used for the treatment of ADHD.
The benefits of green tea for weight loss are widely known. Its antioxidants stimulate metabolism and prevent
the depositing of fats in the body. Its beautifying properties are excellent as well. The skin is nurtured and
protected from aging. Recent studies have found the green tea can even stimulate hair growth. You will really have
a dazzling smile if you have the beverage regularly as it protects the teeth from decay.
|