Green tea is a beverage made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis tree. It is prepared by just barely steaming the leaves to render the liquid. According to World's Healthiest Foods, a website operated by health guru George Mateljan, green tea is the least-processed of teas, delivering full beneficial nutrients in every cup. Green tea contains an antioxidant called polyphenol that helps protect the body from oxidative stress and damage. People who drink green tea on a regular basis may enjoy a variety of health benefits.
Protection from Cancer
According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), drinking green tea may offer protection from developing certain types of cancer. The antioxidant properties in the leaves of the tea are found in substances called catechins, specifically one called epigallocatechin-3-gallate, or EGCG. Cancer cells usually continue to grow even when normal cells in the body expire, but the EGCG contained in green tea is thought to promote the death of cancerous cells. The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) reports that green tea is especially effective in inhibiting the development of cancers of the breast, bladder, ovaries and colorectal areas.
Reduction of Inflammation
The fact that green tea contains powerful antioxidants, called polyphenols, means that people who regular imbibe may experience less inflammation throughout the body. Inflammation can be a way the body responds to oxidative stress, or damage at the cellular level from free radicals and toxins in the body. Green tea introduces protection from free radical damage through its polyphenols, which can lessen the risk of inflammatory conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease and arthritis, according to UMMC.
Protection from Chronic Illness
Chronic and potentially serious illnesses such as high cholesterol, diabetes, liver disease and cardiovascular (heart) disease may be less likely in green tea drinkers than those who enjoy other types of teas or drinks. The University of Maryland Medical Center admits that some of the protective qualities of green tea are not clear, such as why it lowers cholesterol levels. The beverage may also help regulate blood sugar levels, which could slow or even prevent the progression of diabetes.
Weight Management
Drinking green tea can aid in weight management, according to UMMC, though results may vary from person to person. The World's Healthiest Foods lists the caffeine content of green tea at 20 to 45mg per 8-oz. glass. The metabolic boost provided by caffeine, as well as role that green tea's polyphenols play in inhibiting the storage of fat in the body, may help some people lose weight.
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