According to the Mayo Clinic, drinkers of oolong, black, white and green teas, may experience health benefits. Tea is thought to be beneficial because its leaves are packed with flavonoids and other polyphenols, which are antioxidants that may lower the risk of certain diseases when enjoyed regularly.
Cardiovascular
According to the Mayo Clinic, long-term green tea consumption in particular may be beneficial to the cardiovascular system, meaning it may positively impact cholesterol levels, atherosclerosis and blood pressure. The Mayo Clinic also notes some studies suggest drinking green tea on a regular basis can lower the risk of heart attack. Epidemiological, clinical and experimental studies performed at the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, attribute this to the presence of polyphenolic compounds green tea.
Weight
Drinking green tea may have an effect on body weight, insulin activity and fat accumulation, says Teausa.org, citing preliminary studies that showed a significant increase in energy expenditure and oxidation of fat in men and, therefore, a decrease in body weight and circumference. There may also be insulin-enhancing effects among regular tea drinkers, particularly those who drink green tea, according to a 2004 study done at National Taiwan University, in Taipei.
Inflammation
The Mayo Clinic notes that, while studies are limited, some suggest drinking tea may help reduce inflammation. Research published in the Journal of Inflammation in 2007 supports that fact, noting green tea in particular increases anti-inflammatory tristetraprolin, a family of proteins with anti-inflammatory activity.
Bone Health
According to a study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, drinking tea is thought to improve bone density in older women because it contains bone mass-strengthening flavonoids. The Mayo Clinic also notes early laboratory research shows drinking green tea could reduce inflammation associated with arthritis and cartilage breakdown.
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