Green tea has been enjoyed for centuries in traditional Chinese and Japanese cultures. In recent years, it has become increasingly popular in the Western world for its numerous health benefits. But what are the specific benefits of drinking green tea every day? In this article, we will explore five surprising benefits of this ancient beverage.
Boosts Brain Function
Green tea contains caffeine, which can help improve brain function and boost your mood. However, what sets it apart from other sources of caffeine is the presence of an amino acid called L-theanine. L-theanine has been shown to increase alpha brain waves, which are associated with relaxation and creativity. It also helps counteract the jitters and anxiety that can be caused by caffeine.
In a study published in the journal Psychopharmacology, researchers found that a combination of caffeine and L-theanine led to significant improvements in attention and memory. The study participants also reported feeling more alert and less tired. So, if you’re looking for a natural way to improve your brain function and focus, consider swapping your morning coffee for a cup of green tea.
Fights Aging
Green tea is loaded with antioxidants, which help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can harm your DNA and other important molecules in your body, leading to aging and disease. The antioxidants in green tea help neutralize these free radicals, reducing the risk of age-related diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
One of the most powerful antioxidants in green tea is epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). EGCG has been shown to have numerous health benefits, including reducing inflammation and preventing cell damage. It may also help protect against cancer by inhibiting the growth of cancer cells and promoting the death of abnormal cells.
Improves Heart Health
Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Fortunately, drinking green tea may help reduce the risk of heart disease by improving several key risk factors. For example, green tea has been shown to reduce LDL cholesterol (the “bad” cholesterol) and triglycerides, which are both risk factors for heart disease. It may also help improve blood pressure and reduce the risk of blood clots.
A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that drinking green tea was associated with a reduced risk of death from cardiovascular disease. The study followed over 40,000 Japanese adults for 11 years and found that those who drank five or more cups of green tea per day had a 26% lower risk of death from heart disease compared to those who drank one cup or less per day.
Supports Weight Loss
Green tea has been shown to boost metabolism and increase fat burning, making it a popular choice for those looking to lose weight. The caffeine in green tea can help increase energy expenditure, while the EGCG in green tea has been shown to increase fat oxidation. In one study, participants who drank green tea and exercised lost an average of 2.9 pounds more than those who didn’t drink green tea.
In addition to its fat-burning properties, green tea may also help reduce appetite and cravings. One study found that drinking green tea before a meal reduced appetite and increased feelings of fullness, leading to a reduced overall calorie intake.
Improves Skin Health
Green tea may also have benefits for your skin. The antioxidants in green tea help protect your skin from damage caused by UV rays and pollution. They also help reduce inflammation, which can improve conditions like acne and rosacea. Green tea may also help improve skin elasticity and hydration, leading to a more youthful appearance.
In one study, participants who applied a green tea extract to their skin saw a significant improvement in skin elasticity and hydration. Another study found that drinking green tea improved skin hydration and helped protect against sun damage.