When it comes to tea, it’s safe to say that green tea is one of the most researched cups out there, probably because it has been used for medicinal purposes in China and Japan for thousands of years. If you are weaning yourself off of coffee, green tea can be an excellent addition to your routine because it does contain some caffeine, but less than coffee, and also includes some additional health benefits that’ll make that morning cup seem oh so worth it! Green tea comes from the same plant as black and oolong teas, but is lightly steamed in preparation. Because it is not as processed, green tea contains a rich supply of catechins, which are antioxidants that can help to reduce and prevent cell damage. Research has show that one of green tea’s components ECCG, has potential protective effects against heart disease and cancer. In addition to this, green tea contains numerous phytochemicals that may help improve memory and cognition, powerful antioxidants that may decrease oxidative damage to the mitochondria in the brain, and it may also assist in relieving digestive symptoms and headaches. Research has shown that, aside from helping to prevent cancer and heart disease, green tea offers protection from the development of Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and other brain disorders.
Although green tea has not been proven to be the answer when you are looking to drop a few pounds, the tannins and polyphenols of green tea do help the body regulate insulin sensitivity while helping the brain maintain a steady supply of glucose. This can also assist to regulate energy, mood swings, and help maintain a positive outlook during the day. While green tea contains less caffeine than coffee, it may still contain more caffeine than some can tolerate so listen to your body and adjust accordingly. If the caffeine is too much for you, try getting rid of the first steeping of the tea bag and steep again using the same tea bag, or drink decaffeinated green tea instead. Want the health benefits but find green tea too bitter for you to taste? Try using cooled green tea instead of water or juice when you make your morning smoothie. Brewed green tea can also be poured over cooked brown rice and topped with vegetables like seaweed or other greens. In the summer to beat the heat, try iced green tea in summer with some lemon juice topped with a mint leaf.
If possible, try to consume green tea without added sugar. If you must sweeten it, try using an alternative to refined sugar like coconut sugar, xylitol, or stevia. Consuming foods or drinks that are bitter is exceptionally good for your digestion and curbing sugar cravings, so if you can brave it I recommend drinking it straight up. -Xo Raw Girl
References:
- Boehm K, Borrelli F, Ernst E, et al. Green tea (Camellia sinensis) for the prevention of cancer. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2009;(3):CD005004 [edited 2010]. Accessed at http://www.thecochranelibrary.com (link is external) on July 16, 2015.
- Green tea. Natural Medicines Web site. Accessed at naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com/ on July 16, 2015. [Database subscription].
- Hartley L, Flowers N, Holmes J, et al. Green and black tea for the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2013;(6):CD009934. Accessed at http://www.thecochranelibrary.com (link is external) on July 16, 2015.
- Jurgens TM, Whelan AM, Lillian L, et al. Green tea for weight loss and weight maintenance in overweight or obese adults. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2012;(12):CD008650. Accessed at http://www.thecochranelibrary.com (link is external) on July 16, 2015.
- Scott, P. S. (n.d.). Health Benefits of Green Tea. Retrieved July 12, 2018, from https://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/features/health-benefits-of-green-tea#1