Green tea is believed to have many health benefits. Some people see it as one of the so-called “super foods”, which have highly regarded medicinal properties. The Chinese have used it to treat a wide range of medical conditions, from common health problems such as headaches to psychological conditions such as depression.
Lots of scientific research has been conducted, both in Asia and across the Western world, in a bid to prove the health benefits of green tea. In 1994, the Journal of the National Cancer Institute discovered that drinking green tea on a regular basis decreases the chances of developing cancer of the esophagus by as much as sixty per cent amongst Chinese people. Other research has indicated that green tea can reduce cholesterol levels, thus lowering the risk of heart disease. It is also believed to slow down the growth of cancer cells.
Green tea contains epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which is a strong anti-oxidant. This ingredient allows green tea to fight cancer cells without causing damage to the healthy cells. It is also thought to slow down the formation of abnormal blood clots, which are a major contributor to many heart attacks and strokes.
Green tea leaves are steamed to avoid oxidization of the EGCG, which allows it to work to its full potential. The leaves of other types of Chinese tea are often fermented, which is one reason why they are not thought to have as many health benefits as green tea.
Green tea can even help with weight loss. A study conducted by the University of Geneva, and subsequently published by in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in 1999 found that people who drank green tea burnt more calories in comparison to those who drank caffeinated drinks. Green tea does contain small amount of caffeine, but nowhere near as much as coffee.
The anti-oxidant properties can also kill bacteria, which means that green tea can prevent food poisoning and even fights tooth decay.
Given the many health benefits of green tea, is it any wonder that the Chinese have regarded it as a natural miracle for thousands of years? The amount of green tea that you should drink to get these benefits has not yet been determined, but experts suggest drinking four of five cups per day. You can drink more if you wish, but it will not necessarily bring you any more health benefits.