Health Benefits Of Green Tea Supplements

Green tea, taken from the leaves of the Camellia sinesis plant, has many health benefits. Green tea leaves are not fermented, therefore they have the highest concentration of polyphenols compared to other teas. Polyphenols are potent antioxidants that combat free radicals, or substances that damage cells in the body. To reap the associated health benefits, people drink green tea or take green tea supplements.

Weight

Green tea is often advertised as a weight loss supplement. A study conducted by the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that green tea has thermogenic properties and promotes fat oxidation beyond that explained by its caffeine content. The study suggests that catechins, which are substances found in green tea, promote fat loss. A healthy diet complemented with green tea supplements can promote a healthy weight.

Cancer

Antioxidant rich green tea is a proven cancer fighter. According to the National Cancer Institute, tea catechins can act as powerful inhibitors of cancer growth in several ways. They scavenge oxidants before cell injuries occur, reduce the incidence and size of chemically induced tumors, and inhibit the growth of tumor cells. Consuming green tea supplements may help prevent cancer or can be used in conjunction with other therapies to treat cancer. The University of Maryland Medical Center cites a study of 472 women in various stages of breast cancer. It found that women who consumed the most green tea experienced the least spread of cancer.

Inflammation

Green tea has been shown to decrease inflammation. People with diseases associated with inflammation such as inflammatory bowel disease and arthritis can experience a relief in symptoms when consuming green tea.The University of Maryland Medical Center states that green tea may benefit arthritis by reducing inflammation and slowing cartilage breakdown.

Cholesterol

Green tea has been shown to lower LDL or bad cholesterol and increase HDL or good cholesterol. According to a study published by the New York Preventative Cardiovascular Society, drinking between 5 and 10 cups of green tea per day is associated with lower plasma cholesterol concentrations. Green tea supplements are much easier to consume, and have the same health benefits as the tea itself.