Green tea is made from the same plant that black and oolong teas are made from, but it hasn’t gone through the same withering and oxidation process. It is, therefore, a less processed form of the leaves and buds of the Camellia sinensis plant. It originated in China, but the production and manufacturing of it is now also done in East Asia.
Research shows that tea drinkers tend to have less heart disease than non-tea drinkers. This is likely due to the presence of flavonoids in the tea. The ceremony that often surrounds drinking tea is also a way of releasing stress. For those who can’t tolerate the caffeine in coffee, a cup of green tea contains more modest amounts ranging from 25-50 mg per cup, roughly half the amount found in coffee.
Action -Several large studies have shown that drinking green tea can reduce the likelihood of having heart disease or strokes, although researchers can’t always separate out the lifestyle factor. People who drink tea tend to be different than those who don’t, with more relaxed attitudes and overall healthier habits.
Steer clear of green tea supplements. There just isn’t enough information to show that they are effective or if they are even safe. Drinking 2-3 cups of green tea each day is fine, but as with anything else don’t go overboard. More is not always better. The catechins in green tea may affect the ability to absorb iron, so if you suffer from iron deficiency it is best to avoid drinking it close to mealtimes.
Steps – Brew the tea in water that isn’t still boiling. Allow it to cool to 160-170F before pouring it on the tea so as not to destroy the catechins. Adding lemon can make the catechins easier to absorb, but avoid adding dairy because that can inhibit absorption.
Sipping tea is a good opportunity to slow down and relax. Instead of reaching for a sugary soda or another coffee, try introducing green tea into your daily routine. Knowing that it is loaded with healthy compounds is reassuring and gives you incentive to enjoy a cup or two. Replacing something unhealthy in your diet with something healthy is always desirable.
Don’t add a bunch of sugar to the tea as this will negate any health benefits. A little bit of sweetener is okay, but getting used to the taste of the tea by itself is the best way to consume it. If you normally reach for a snack between meals, try having a cup of green tea instead. Often when we think we are hungry it is the body’s signal for thirst.
Why It Makes You Feel Better – Green tea has been shown to reduce cholesterol, improve blood flow, help block the formation of plaque in arteries that can lead to Alzheimer’s disease, and keep blood sugar stable in people with diabetes. Because catechins are antioxidants that can fight and even prevent cell damage, there is some evidence that green tea consumption may help destroy cancer cells.
Example – Use green tea as a ritual to unwind and relax. This will help reduce stress and anxiety. Be mindful as you prepare it, boiling the water while taking the opportunity to breathe and slow down. Be patient as the water cools slightly, then pour it over the leaves and understand that the plant has properties that can keep you healthy. Enjoy the process as you do something good for yourself.
Green tea may be one of the healthiest things that you can choose to drink. The most benefits will be found in the tea itself, not in supplements or sugary drinks that are made from it. Sip the real thing and know that your body is grateful.