10 health benefits of green tea

Rheumatoid arthritis

Studies suggest that epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and another vital chemical called epicatechin gallate (ECG), which are both found in green tea, can help the boy to prevent the onset of rheumatoid arthritis.

Cardiovascular disease

Drinking green tea regularly has been found to lower overall cholesterol levels, particularly ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol. Having a healthy cholesterol level gives us a lower risk of developing heart disease and stroke.

Infection

In many different studies, green tea has been found to boost the effect of antibiotics, so it’s worth drinking it whenever you have an infection that’s being treated with antibiotics.

Impaired immunity

Green tea contains lots of compounds that can help boost the immune system. These include catechin polyphenols, the chemical theanine, and essential amino acids.

One study found that taking green tea-based supplements reduced the risk of getting flu by up to 75 per cent.

Obesity

Although more scientific studies need to be carried out on humans to establish the weight loss benefits of green tea, there’s plenty of anecdotal evidence to suggest its efficacy.

It’s thought that the flavanoids and caffeine in green tea act to boost metabolism and aid fat burning.

Glaucoma

Scientists have discovered that the antioxidants found in green tea can penetrate the tissues of the eye, and that they may help to protect against glaucoma and other common eye diseases.

Tooth decay

The antibacterial action of the plant-derived molecules called catechin polyphenolsm, which are contained in green tea, can help combat bad breath and reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease because they inhibit the growth of plaque.

Stress and depression

One Japanese study found that drinking green tea played a role in preventing stress and depression.

If you’re prone to either condition, it’s got to be worth giving it a try.

Diabetes

There are some epidemiological studies which have linked the consumption of green tea with regulating blood-glucose levels.

Further studies are needed to prove the link, which could have positive implications for diabetic control.