Green Tea Is Good for You - Why?

We are all urged to eat at least five portions of fruit and vegetables daily and one reason is that all fruit and vegetables contain antioxidants. Green tea has a particularly high concentration of one group of antioxidants are called polyphenols or flavonoids at over 20% by weight. 

Of four beneficial catechins present about half is epigallocatechin gallate (EGCC). This has been found to be anti-carcinogenic by preventing cell damage within the body. This cell damage is caused by unstable, toxic molecules, known as free radicals which are created by oxidation from toxins in the environment. If we have insufficient antioxidants in our diet these free radicals damage healthy cells which affect the ability of our immune system to fight infection and disease.

Catechins in unfermented tea are also credited with helping to break down cholesterol and ensure its removal through the bowels. This is particularly important for the maintenance of cardiovascular health.

Its vitamin C content reduces the likelihood of arterial disease by strengthening the walls of blood vessels. Green teas also help blood coalescing, leading to blood clots and hence thrombosis or strokes.

Studies in Japan have shown that those who drank around five cups of unoxidised tea each day demonstrated about half the incidence of cancers than non-drinkers. These cancers included those of the breast, liver, lung and skin.

Caffeine is present but at a concentration of only about 40% of that in black tea and around 25% of that in ground coffee. This has the effect of improving concentration yet maintaining calm but it is also the vitamin C and tannin content that moderate the body's absorption of caffeine. For those suffering asthma, caffeine in green tea helps relax bronchial spasms.

This healthy beverage has been heralded as an aid to weight loss. This is because it stimulates metabolism.

Streptococcus mutans is a bacteria responsible for the build-up of plaque on teeth, causing dental decay. It has been shown that green tea inhibits the growth of this bacteria. Another benefit oral benefit of green tea is the suppression of the bacteria that cause bad breath (halitosis).

The benefits outlined here help summarise why this magical beverage has been given such coverage in the press as being such a beneficial part of our diet. Efforts are continuing to better understand the benefits of green tea but so far research does explain why many Asian cultures have revered green tea for centuries.