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5 Health Benefits of Green Tea

Green Tea is a type of tea that is made from Camellia sinensis leaves. The process involved in making it includes drying, pan-frying and steaming of the leaves, whereas black teas and oolong teas are made from withering and the oxidation process.

Green tea originally came from China, but thanks to its numerous health benefits, it is one of the most popular beverages consumed worldwide. A 2013 report suggested that the global production of green tea was approximately 1.7 million tonnes, and was forecast to double in volume by the year 2023.

As of 2015, China produced 80% of green tea worldwide, the United States being its highest importer behind Britain. Below we will highlight the 5 main health benefits of green tea.

Keeps your heart healthy

Regular green tea consumption has been credited to lower risk of stroke and cardiovascular diseases. This is according to a study published in the European Journal of Preventative Cardiology. The research found out that drinking green tea three or more times a week significantly improves your heart health, mainly because of a type of antioxidant.

Green tea has a 5% lower risk of contracting cardiovascular diseases as it improves blood flow, thus reducing your cholesterol levels. According to Xinyan Wang, Ph.D. (c), of the department of epidemiology at the Chinese Academy of Medical College, green tea is rich in polyphenols. This is an antioxidant that relieves inflammation, improving the cell function of the heart and blood vessels.

Strengthens bones

A study by Dr Ping Chung Leung from the Institute of Chinese Medicine at the University of Hong Kong showed that the consumption of green tea enhanced bone health. The research also suggests that green tea prevents, and treats osteoporosis, among many other bone diseases.

The components found in the tea stimulate formation, and slow the breakdown of bones. This improves growth by 79%, thus maintaining strong and healthy bones.

Prevents skin cancer

Green tea prevents skin cancer. This is made possible by an antioxidant called EGCG, which promotes DNA repair. It prevents the sun’s UV rays from destroying the skin. It also contains an anti-aging ingredient which keeps the skin young and oily. The tea also has powerful antibacterial enzymes that treat acne and unclog pores.

Vitamins B2 and E that are found in green tea are essential for healthy skin. Vitamin B2 is responsible for youthful skin, whereas Vitamin E enhances new skin growth and hydrates dry skin.

Improves brain functioning

Green tea is credited for a boost in brain functioning. Caffeine being a stimulant is an active ingredient though in small quantities unlike in coffee. Caffeine unlocks adenosine which is an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain.

This increases the activity of neurons in the brain, thus enhancing concentration. Caffeine can dictate your mood, reaction time, memory and vigilance. Studies show that caffeine has synergetic effects which improve functioning of the brain.

May help prevent type 2 diabetes

Studies show that green tea improves insulin sensitivity by reducing blood sugar levels. Diabetes has been on the rise globally due to poor lifestyle, especially type 2. People with type 2 diabetes have elevated blood sugar levels due to insulin resistance or the inability to produce insulin.

A study conducted in Japan indicated that people who consumed green tea more often had an approximately 42% lower risk of contracting type 2 diabetes. This is in contrast from those who didn’t.