After a rich cultural history across many Asian countries, green tea has now become a popular drink in Western nations. Sellers of the herbal beverage tout a range of benefits from drinking the tea, from improved cardiovascular health to a reduction in cancer risk. Green tea may also help burn fat. Although India leads the world in tea production, exports from Japan remain high.
Japanese Green Tea
The World's Healthiest Foods website notes that Japanese green tea has kept its reputation for high quality, having been featured in tea ceremonies such as "chanoyu" since the 16th century, with produce from the provinces of Shizuoka and Uji remaining highly prized. Around three-quarters of tea harvested in Japan comes in the form of Sencha, making it the most popular variety in the country.
Nutritional Content
Like other green teas, Japanese green tea contains a wealth of catechin compounds. A type of polyphenol, David Tolson explains how these these plant chemicals make up around 10 percent of the dry weight of the tea. The nutritional researcher, who contributes to Iron Magazine, reports how the catechins act as powerful antioxidants, in particular the highly potent EGCG compound.
Thermogenesis
EGCG, also known as epigallocatechin-gallate, and the other catechins exhibit remarkable effects in the central nervous system. Vitamin and Herb University note that they inhibit an enzyme that breaks down noradrenaline, increasing the availability of this peptide hormone. As noradrenaline triggers thermogenesis, the process through which the body oxidizes fat for heat production, the consumption of green tea can increase fat burning.
Appetite
The consumption of green tea can also help to curb appetite. Tolson explains that the catechin compounds increase the release of CCK, also known as cholecystokinin, following a meal. This intestinal hormone tells the brain that food has reached the intestines and induces a feeling of satiety. This may help people stick to their diet plans.
Evidence
The scientific evidence supports the use of all green teas as a weight-loss aid. A 2002 study, which appeared in the "Phytomedicine" journal, provided volunteers with a green tea extract each day for three months. The French scientists who led the study found significant reductions in the average body weight and waist circumference.
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