A green miraculous drink that has a myriad of benefits! Yes, we are talking about Green tea. Often people ask so how different green tea is from the normal black tea, when it is derived from the same plant? The difference lies in the handling of the leaves. The normal black tea passes through the oxidation phase as it is fermented and thus loses its healthy properties, however green tea does not.
Green tea of course is touted for its health benefits which brims in every sip you take. Flavonoids are found in substantial amount in green tea which is an extraordinary antioxidant. This green liquid is a house of 450 organic compounds which when enters our body system does wonder and imparts health.
Before we delve into the health benefits of green tea let us understand what exactly is Tea? Tea is derived from only one kind of plant which is termed as Camellia sinensis. The difference comes in how we treat the leaves.
Black tea undergoes complete fermentation of tea leaves. It passes through the whole lot of oxidation.
Oolong tea is a variety which is in between green and black tea.
Green tea is not fermented and retains its moisture too.
Health benefits of green tea
Anti-allergic: the EGCG(epigallocatechin gallate) compound is an anti-allergenic compound. Green tea is known to treat pollen allergies; this is the reason why people prefer to drink a lot of green tea during the onset of winters.
Revitalize Eyesight: we have always associated carrots with good eyesight. Catechin, a compound found in green tea can boost eyesight. The antioxidant activity of this compound protects the cornea of eye.
Reduces cholesterol levels: if you want to get rid of greasy food and binging, start sipping green tea when you get strong hunger pangs. The strong antioxidant EGCG compound in green tea reduces the amount of cholesterol absorption from large intestine.
Healthy teeth and gums
People believe that tea drinking can lead to gum problems and stains our teeth. Black tea contains tannic acid which gives it a dark shade. The tannic acid stains our teeth however in green tea it is absent. In fact, you will be surprised to know that for oral health care dentists recommends green tea. In fact, people struggling from oral cancer are recommended doses of green tea.
A good sunscreen: green tea when mixed with your sunscreen can protect your skin from harmful UV radiation. It treats the redness after sunburn and also delays premature aging.
Cardiovascular: green tea treats coronary artery diseases. It is known to reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels. For a healthy heart drink minimum three cups of green tea.
Weight control: if you are seriously thinking about weight loss program, do not forget to take shots of green tea. It helps in getting rid of your fat deposits. It helps in building up your metabolism and reduces your hunger pangs thus controls your appetite.
Often people take about the caffeine content in green tea. The levels of caffeine in green tea are very less as compared to coffee and black tea. The Dietary Guideline Advisory Committee mentions that 400 mg or less of caffeine does not harm our body. One cup of green tea contains 25 mg of caffeine.
Pregnant ladies should always consult doctors before indulging in green tea.
Prevents Type2 Diabetes: according to a recent study, people who consume 3 to 4 cups of green tea have lower risk of Type 2 Diabetes.
Prevents Breast Cancer: a study on Breast Cancer on Asian community mentions that green tea consumption reduces the risk of breast cancer.
Skincare: green tea does make your skin looks young and fresh. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds in green tea prevents sagging and premature ageing of skin.
In the market you can find various supplements which claim to contain traces of green tea. How healthy these supplements are yet to be considered however, you can truly rely on the hot cup of green tea.
For information on green tea derived from the above discussed click here.