The most popular form of green tea in Japan, sencha, uses high-grade, young leaves of the Camellia sinesis plant. Tea makers steam the leaves to prevent fermentation and maintain the green color of the tea. Steaming the high-quality leaves results in a less bitter flavor than other green teas, but the health benefits are the same.
Cholesterol
Regular consumption of sencha green tea may lower total cholesterol and triglyceride levels. The University of Michigan Health System reports the polyphenols in green tea may reduce the oxidative damage caused by LDL "bad" cholesterol and raise HDL "good" cholesterol levels. However, green tea cannot take the place of a healthy diet or replace treatments or medications prescribed by a physician.
Cardiovascular Health
Preliminary research suggests green tea may reduce the risk of heart disease and atherosclerosis. Some researchers believe that drinking three cups of green tea daily may reduce the possibility of a heart attack by 11 percent, according the University of Maryland Medical Center. However the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not acknowledged these inconclusive findings and has not approved green tea as a treatment or method of prevention for heart disease.
Cancer
Studies have addressed the possibility of a link between green tea and cancer rates. Some studies seem to suggest that high levels of green tea consumption may prevent several types of cancer, particularly in the upper digestive tract. The University of Michigan Health Systems reports that in one study the polyphenol called catechin in green tea effectively stopped the spread of skin cancer cells. As promising as this research appears, some studies have found no association between green tea consumption and the prevention of cancer.
Immune System Function
The catechin polyphenols found in green tea have antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties, according to eMedExpert.com. Polyphenols act as antioxidants supporting and boosting your immune system function. Regular consumption of green tea may help your body fight illnesses, such as the flu virus, salmonella and herpes simplex. However, additional research is needed to determine the effectiveness of green tea in preventing infections.
Brain Function
Animal studies suggest drinking green tea may improve memory and learning ability. One of the types of polyphenols found in green tea, called epigalochatechin-3-gallate or EGCG, has powerful antioxidant properties, which may protect the brain from damage caused by free radicals. This protective activity may, in theory, reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, speculates eMedExpert.com.
Skin Health
The antioxidant properties of the polyphenols in green tea may help protect your skin and prevent the signs of aging. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals originating from your body or toxins in the environment. Over time, free radicals can damage the collagen and elastin fibers that keep your skin looking firm and smooth. Although many cosmetics and skin care products include green tea extract for this reason, more research is needed to support the healthful effect of green tea on skin.
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