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.