Facts About Green Tea
Green tea is one of the world’s most consuming types of beverages. Generally, it has a complex flavor that tastes grassy, vegetal, and nutty. Some also taste bittersweet for the first time drinking green tea.
Green tea is loaded with nutrients and plant compounds that can have positive health effects. It is a good source of polyphenols – natural compounds reducing inflammation and fighting cancer. People who drink green tea have a lower risk of getting many types of cancer, especially prostate and breast cancer.
It also contains a catechin called EGCG that prevents heart diseases, stroke, and Alzheimer’s disease. Green tea may improve some factors that are risky for these diseases. It also increases the antioxidant capacity of the blood, which protects the LDL particles from oxidation to keep heart diseases away.
Green tea has many anti-aging properties and antioxidants such as catechins and polyphenols which cut down on free radical count. It not only fights wrinkles, fine lines, dark spots, and saggy skin, keeping it firm and healthy but also slows down premature aging as it is rich in oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs). Regular intake of it as a beverage can give you a radiant glow and spotless skin. It is known to be a natural moisturizer that helps keep skin soft and supple.
People who are on their diet to lose weight also can drink green tea. The caffeine and catechins in green tea may increase fat burning which can be an additional 75–100 calories per day. Besides, the bioactive compounds in green tea can help improve brain function along with reducing the risk of dementia.
In addition, green tea may improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar levels it helps fight against type 2 diabetes. It can also have a calming effect on your mind. Theanine, an amino acid found in green tea leaves, helps you relax and keep stress at bay. Theanine also helps to reduce anxiety.
The Most Ideal Time To Drink Green Tea In A Day
You can drink a soothing cup of green tea in the morning to boost focus and concentration. Early morning can be a good time because this time is when your metabolism is the highest, which can be boosted with a nice hot cup of green tea.
To reach the full health benefits of green tea, it is highly recommended to drink it at least two hours before and two hours after your meal. This way will ensure that the catechins do not react with the caseins present in animal protein or milk. Additionally, consuming green tea with your meal will minimize nutrient intake and inhibit the absorption of iron and minerals from food.
Remember to consume green tea at least one to two hours before going to bed. This will help you burn fat even as you are asleep. If you drink green tea right before going to sleep, the caffeine can wake you up and disturb your sleep.
How Much Green Tea Should You Drink?
Drinking green tea regularly is beneficial for health. However, the optimal amount to drink may depend on the disease. Over consumption can cause some serious side effects on your body including anemia.
|
Type Of Disease |
Optimal Amount |
|
Oral cancer |
3 – 4 cups |
|
Prostate cancer |
More than 5 cups |
|
Stomach cancer |
More than 5 cups |
|
Breast cancer |
More than 5 cups |
|
Pancreatic cancer |
More than 3 cups |
|
Diabetes |
More than 5 cups |
|
Heart disease |
1 – 3 cups |
