Tea consumption continues to grow in the United States, with all segments of the industry expected to show growth in 2011, according to the Tea Association of the U.S.A., Inc. Most Americans are very familiar with black tea. But green tea, which is popular in China, has not become common until recently. Some Americans refer to green tea as "Chinese tea" because it is commonly served in Chinese restaurants. Part of the drive behind the increase in tea consumption is the perception that tea is a healthier beverage than other types such as sweetened soft drinks.
Tea and Oxidative Stress
Chemical reactions are constantly occurring in the body. Some of these events will result in byproducts called free radicals. These chemicals represent a danger to cells because of their highly reactive state. Free radicals can cause damage and cell death. Cancer and atherosclerosis have been linked to the presence of free radicals. Chinese tea contains antioxidants that can mitigate these effects. A 2007 study by Jagiellonian University in Poland found that black, white and green tea all contained antioxidants, with green tea containing the highest levels.
Tea and Endurance
An area of scientific study regarding green tea involves its effects on endurance. Research could prove valuable in light of the fact that more than one-third of Americans are overweight. A 2005 study by Kao Corporation in Japan found that feeding mice green tea for 10 weeks increased their endurance by 8 to 24 percent. Researchers explained the findings due to an increase in fat burn for energy.
Tea and Fat Burn
Chinese tea may also have health benefits due to its effects on fat burn. Fat, especially around your midsection, increases your risk for heart disease, warns the Harvard Medical School. A 2010 study by Maastricht University in the Netherlands found that consumption of green tea increased fat oxidation -- or fat burn -- through the production of energy and heat in the body. The study suggested that green tea consumption can improve weight maintenance.
Cautions
The primary cautions surrounding green tea involve the effects of caffeine. Over-consumption can cause headaches and nervousness, making it inappropriate for children and pregnant women. Drugs.com also cautions against consuming green tea if you are taking a blood thinner such as warfarin. In addition, tea acts as a diuretic. You should consult your doctor if you are taking a water pill or any other type of medication before adding green tea to your diet.
References
- Tea Association of the U.S.A., Inc.; The State of the U.S. Tea Industry; Joseph P. Simrany; February 10, 2011
- Iowa State University; Oxidative Stress; James A. Thomas; 1999
- "Acta Poloniae Pharmeceutica"; The Effect of Green, Black and White Tea on the Level of Alpha and Gamma Tocopherols in Free Radical-Induced Oxidative Damage of Human Red Blood Cells; M. Gawlik and A. Czajka; March-April 2007
- "American Journal of Physiology, Regulatory, Integrative and Comparative Physiology"; Green Tea Extract Improves Endurance Capacity and Increases Muscle Lipid Oxidation in Mice; T. Murase, et al.; March 2005
- "Principles of Anatomy and Physiology"; G. Tortora et al; 2005
- "Physiology and Behavior"; Green Tea Catechins, Caffeine and Body-Weight Regulation; M. Westerterp-Plantenga; April 2010
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