One of the most common habits prevalent all over the world is the drinking tea or coffee. Tea and coffee contain caffeine nicotine and other harmful substances. Substituting these beverages with green tea is a healthier option.

Green tea benefits health in many ways. Some of them have been proven through scientific research. It is supposed to be beneficial in the treatment and prevention of cancer, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. It is also thought to be beneficial in treating multiple sclerosis. It also promotes metabolism and increases oxidation of fat. This gives the body increased energy resources.



Green tea contains a high concentration of polyphenols which are powerful antioxidants. These antioxidants remove free radicals from the body. Free radicals are naturally occurring compounds which, in the presence of toxins like cigarette smoke, pollution and radiations, alter the cells in the body and even tamper with the DNA. Since these free radicals are thought to promote aging and the development of cancer, green tea is supposed to prevent such damage. The polyphenols are considered to be more effective than vitamin C.

As far as weight loss is concerned, studies show that green tea can increase metabolism and burn more fat. It contains catechins, theanine and caffeine which promote fat loss. These compounds help to increase the use of fatty acids by the muscle cells and the liver. It specifically helps in losing the fat that builds up in the tissues lining the internal organs and the abdominal cavity. This types of visceral fat increases the risk of type 2 diabetes. It also decreases the level of triglycerides in the blood. Regular intake also helps in increasing the endurance levels.

Other teas like black tea and oolong also come from the same plant but do not give the same health benefits. This is due to the difference in processing. These teas are fermented and oxidized while green tea is steamed and not fermented or oxidized. The compounds formed during fermentation and oxidation of the tea leaves greatly lessens the effectiveness of the other varieties of tea.

To be effective green tea has to be taken regularly, around 2 to 4 cups daily. It means that if you just take one cup once in a week it is not going to help you. Its only side effect is reported to be insomnia. This is due to the presence of caffeine in it.  The amount of caffeine is much lower than that in coffee so drinking green tea in controlled amounts will have no side effect.

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