For many of us, a cup of tea in the morning is a must to kickstart our day. Not just that, but more ‘tea-breaks’ follow during the day ahead for an energy boost. Unfortunately, this much-beloved beverage is not the most healthy one. In fact, in light of the busy routines that most of us grapple with every day, a healthy alternative to regular tea is a necessity. Here comes Green Tea! Many wonder what are green tea benefits.
Unlike regular tea leaves, green tea leaves are unoxidized which makes green tea rich in beneficial polyphenols and antioxidants. For centuries, the positive effects of green tea like weight maintenance, healthy skin, and good cardiovascular health have been popularized. Read below to know more about what are green tea benefits!
What are green tea benefits? Is Green Tea Better Than Regular Tea?
1. Reduces risk of cancer
Some studies have proven the effectiveness of green tea against UVB radiation that causes skin cancer. Although more conclusive researches are due to be done on the link between green tea consumption and cancer prevention, few significant studies have pointed to the potency of tea polyphenols. Mainly, these micronutrients carry the potential to fight UVB-induced skin cancer (2018 study)
Apart from skin cancer, green tea may yield positive impacts on other types of cancers too, such as breast cancer, ovarian cancer, bladder cancer, stomach cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, etc. (ALSO READ: Green Coffee For Weight Loss: Benefits & Side Effects)
2. Aids weight loss
Green tea is an integral component of all weight loss diet charts. It is because it is known to contain an antioxidant called catechin that makes your metabolism more efficient. Green tea has not been given much clinical importance but it is known to work best when taken along with other weight-friendly components and as a part of a weight management regime. 2-3 cups a day are sufficient if you are following a weight loss regime. In case you have blood pressure issues, or any other medical conditions, it’s advisable to consult your doctor for the right proportion of green tea consumption. (ALSO READ:15 Best Weight Loss Drinks In The Morning)
3. Enhances working memory
One of the most interesting green tea benefits is that it prevents the impairment of one’s cognitive functions. It enhances your working memory, as per some scientific studies. Researches indicate that green tea can have promising effects in treating conditions like dementia. (ALSO READ: 12 Best Brain Foods To Increase Memory Power & Concentration)
4. Strengthens your cardiovascular system
Green tea polyphenols have been proven to have remedial effects on inflammations, low blood pressure, and poor epithelial functions. As a result, good heart health and an overall strengthening of the cardiovascular system are ensured. One of the most important green tea benefits is that it helps relieve stress and fatigue which in turn decreases the risk of heart diseases.
5. Improves skin health
There are countless green tea benefits for good skin health. It’s common to find a slew of anti-acne beauty products composed of green tea extracts. It is because of the antioxidant properties of green tea that help clear the skin of acne and inflammations. If topically applied, green tea acts as an effective exfoliator to treat clogged pores. Additionally, by enriching the skin with vitamin E, green tea produces a moisturizing effect on the skin. Other green tea benefits for the skin include sun damage repair, sebum control, and reduced skin irritation. (ALSO READ: 10 Tips For Whitening Skin You Must Know To Lighten The Skin)
As they say, nothing should be consumed without caution or proper information; green tea is no exception. Apart from green tea benefits, you must also be aware of a few risks associated with it. To help you make more informed choices, here are some pointers on the risks of green tea consumption!
Risks of green tea
- If you are caffeine sensitive, green tea consumption could lead you to suffer from an upset stomach, insomnia, anxiety, nausea, and irritability. It’s advised that you consult a doctor beforehand or avoid green tea consumption altogether in this scenario.
- Although there is bleak evidence of this, excessive green tea consumption should be avoided as it may cause liver damage. Regardless of research, it is always better to consume things in balanced proportions.
- If taken alongside stimulants like drugs, green tea may shoot up the heart rate and blood pressure which is certainly not ideal in any case.
Takeaway
Green tea has a range of benefits: from skin-friendly to anti-cancerous properties, green tea is a wholesome ingredient for a healthy and happy life. It can be consumed orally and applied topically too. It is advised, at all times, to be thorough with the benefits and associated risks of green tea before any usage.