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A Cup of Green Tea Everyday

Green tea or black tea? Which is better? Well, the level of oxidation of the leaves determines the type of tea. It is made from unoxidized leaves and is one of the least processed types of tea. Hence it also contains the most antioxidants and beneficial polyphenols and comparatively less caffeine. Since most of the purported health benefits from tea are attributed to the free radical killing antioxidants, the choice should be clear.

Some of the major benefits of Green Tea

Oral Health

Green tea is helpful in preventing bad breath, dental cavities, and decay. Anti-oxidants are also beneficial for building stronger gums and reducing plaque.

Heart Health

Green tea’s polyphenols and antioxidants increase the antioxidant capacity of the blood. Along with catechins, this protects the LDL particles from oxidation, which is one of the pathways toward cardiovascular disease.

Stimulates Hair Growth & Protects Skin

Drinking green tea every day can promote hair growth and affords protection against sunburn. It is proven to tone the skin and give it a glow.

Reduces Cholesterol

Studies suggest that drinking green tea on a regular basis will reduce the total and LDL or “bad” cholesterol. Due to the presence of a large number of anti-oxidants, it increases the antioxidant capacity of the blood which prevents the LDL particles from oxidation. Lower cholesterol means a decreased risk of heart disease.

Promotes Weight Loss

Green tea boosts the metabolic rate and increases the fat-burning capacity of the body. It aids in increasing fat oxidation which mobilizes fatty acids from fat tissues and makes them available for use as energy. This leads to positive and healthy weight loss which can sustain for a longer period.

Inflammatory Skin Disease

Inflammatory skin disease is characterized by patches of dry, red, flaky skin caused by inflammation and over-production of skin cells. Consuming green tea will slow the growth of skin cells and inflammation.

Detoxifies

Green tea helps in flushing out toxins from the body. When the unwanted wastes are flushed out of the body, you will feel renewed with more energy and work more productively.

Type-2 Diabetes

It is an excellent drink for diabetics as it has zero calories and helps to maintain healthy blood sugar levels. It aids in lowering the risk of diabetes in people who are prone to becoming diabetic.

Anti-Carcinogenic Effects

There is no proof that green tea can cure cancer. Although studies reveal that the polyphenols present in green tea can decrease tumor growth. They also protect against the harmful effects of chemotherapy treatment.

Sleep and Stree Reduction

Due to its low caffeine content, green tea is less likely to impair sleep. It also promotes the production of dopamine which is a mood stabilizing enzyme and helps to reduce stress.

Written by MedPlus