Green tea comes from the Camellia sinensis bush, as do all true teas, but the difference in taste and health benefits is in how the teas are processed. Green tea leaves are steamed then dried in one to two days, and this retains the green color and more importantly its healthy antioxidants. Green tea does have caffeine, about 1/4 the amount in a cup of coffee. Green tea supplements are also equivalent, healthy alternatives.
Healthy Phytochemicals
Green tea contains a powerful class of phytochemicals called catechins (pronounced KA-teh-kins). The most powerful catechin in green tea is EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate). This antioxidant fights excess free radical damage that can harm DNA and lead to cancer. Scientists know from studies that Asians who regularly drink a lot of green tea have lower rates of many types of cancer. Catechins also firm up the immune system so your body can fight cancer effectively. And green tea supports heart health in many ways.
What Research Says
- In 2005 Dr. Thomas A. Gasiewicz, a Professor of Environmental Medicine at the University of Rochester Medical Center, found through his research that EGCG focuses on a protein called HSP90 that is in many of the body’s cells and occurs in higher amounts in cancer cells. The EGCG binds to the protein throughout the body and stops cancer from growing. He maintains that no pharmaceutical can operate this way.
- In the August 2007 issue of Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention, a research study found that EGCG increases detox enzymes in the body, of those who were deficient of them, by as much as 80%. Sufficient detoxification enzymes keep the body’s immune system strong so it can fight off diseases. The enzymes work by neutralizing known chemicals called carcinogens that cause cancer. Asbestos, cigarette smoke and benzene are examples of carcinogens and there are many more.
- As reported in the October 9, 2008 online issue of Nutrition, green tea contributes to heart health on many fronts. A recent study found that after just three weeks, human subjects given green tea supplements improved their blood pressure, LDL and total cholesterol and a blood marker for chronic inflammation.
Add Lemon to Tea
It was reported in the November 2007 issue of Molecular Nutrition and Food Research that only about 20% of green tea’s powerful catechins remain in the intestines after digestion. But the staying power goes to 80% if you add lemon juice to the tea.
How Much for Healthy Benefits?
Experts vary on how many cups of green tea you need per day for healthy benefits; some say three to six cups whereas others say five to ten cups, depending on the brand. An alternative is green tea supplements that are just as effective as brewed tea. One to two capsules per day deliver positive results.
Caffeine vs. Decaffeinated
In 2003 it was reported in Nutrition and Cancer that decaffeinated green tea has about 1/3 to 1/4 the health value of regular green tea. But a not-always-used CO2 decaffeinating process can save most of the potent antioxidants. However, studies have found that an amino acid in green tea, L-theanine, seems to combine with the caffeine in regular tea to produce a calming yet heightened awareness state that does not keep one awake at night.
Summary
Scientists are discovering that green tea shows promise of stopping cancer in its tracks, strengthens the immune system and promotes heart health. Studies are also going on to see if green tea is effective against rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes and weight loss. Do not drink tea with aspirin as both promote anti-clotting. Persons with thyroid problems should not use green tea.
This is an educational article only; always consult with your physician for medical advice.
 |
