Green tea, one of the three main varieties of tea, is full of natural chemicals called polyphenols, antioxidants that can help prevent cell damage. The University of Maryland Medical Center cites numerous studies showing green tea promotes overall health and wellness, and helps reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer, lowers high cholesterol, controls blood sugar and improves liver health. However, green tea interacts with some medications, so before using it, consult your doctor to make sure green tea is safe and appropriate for you to consume.
Step 1
Drink at least 10 cups of green tea daily, if your doctor says this is safe for you. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that studies show men who drank at least 10 cups of green tea a day were less likely to develop liver problems.
Step 2
Take 100 to 750 mg daily of standardized green tea extract via capsules if you do not want to drink green tea, if your doctor approves. Choose caffeine-free formulations if possible, to avoid becoming jittery.
Step 3
Talk with your doctor if you have hepatitis about whether drinking green tea can help your liver function. High doses of chemicals called catechins, found in all teas, have been shown helpful in treating viral hepatitis, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center. However, green tea has lower levels of catechins, and its value for hepatitis patients is unclear.
Tips and Warnings
- If you eat a high-fat diet, drinking green tea may reduce absorption of lipids into your tissues, helping promote healthy liver function, according to a 2011 study published in the International Journal of Obesity. Discuss your diet with your doctor, and whether including green tea may help you.
- Green tea is only for supplemental use -- take it only after consulting with your doctor or healthcare provider. Tell your doctor about any other supplements and drugs you are taking, to avoid adverse side effects or interactions. Do not use green tea in place of medical treatment or medications for your liver.
