Traditional Chinese healers have been aware of the health benefits of green tea for centuries and have used it to treat numerous conditions including headaches, depression, constipation and high blood pressure. However, its most frequently touted benefit is its ability to prevent heart disease.
Identification
First brewed approximately 5,000 years ago in China, green tea has been a staple beverage of Asian culture for centuries. It is made entirely from the leaves of the tea plant Camellia sinensis, which contains a high concentration of antioxidants called polyphenols.
Significance
According to National Vital Statistics Reports, heart disease is the number one cause of death in the U.S. While this may be due to a number of factors, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking and lack of exercise, two of the main causes are high cholesterol and excess weight, which studies suggest may be reduced by a few cups a day of green tea.
The Facts
According to a study published in the journal "Obesity," continuous ingestion of catechins -- the form of polyphenol plentiful in green tea -- leads to a reduction of body fat and LDL cholesterol levels. This suggests that green tea may be able to ameliorate obesity and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disorders. Similar studies conducted using animals also suggest that polyphenols found in green tea may inhibit the absorption of cholesterol in the intestines and facilitate its excretion from the body. In addition to decreasing cholesterol levels derived from food, it's also claimed that green tea can counteract increases in cholesterol caused by smoking cigarettes.
Other Benefits
Green tea is also rich in vitamins A, E and C as well as minerals such as manganese, chromium and zinc, all of which are vital nutrients for the body. Vegetarians in particular should consider the health benefits of green tea as many of these minerals may be lacking in their meat-free diet.
Warning
As with most consumables, benefiting from green tea is a matter of moderation. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, excessive intake of green tea can lead to liver problems, as well as severe conditions such as jaundice. In addition to this, because it contains caffeine, ingesting too much green tea may cause anxiety, insomnia, nausea and diarrhea.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: National Vital Statistics Reports
- "Obesity;" A Green Tea Extract High in Catechins Reduces Body Fat and Cardiovascular Risks in Humans; T. Nagao , T. Hase, I. Tokimitsu; June 2007
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Green Tea
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Herbs at a Glance: Green Tea
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