Food for Thought – Benefits of Green Tea

Green tea leaves are rich in flavonoids and other catechins which act as antioxidants. These antioxidants and other antioxidants help minimize inflammation caused by cell-damaging free radicals thereby possibly reducing the risk of some cancers. However, be mindful of the possible interaction with fat in milk as it may have an interaction with those antioxidants, decreasing their effectiveness.

Several studies indicate that green tea can lower cholesterol levels, helping reduce the risk of heart disease, heart attacks and stroke. High cholesterol can clog your arteries and is a major risk factor for heart problems. A 2023 study found that people who drank two to four cups of green tea every day lowered their stroke risk by as much as 24%.

A study of middle-aged and older adults found that frequent green tea drinkers had a 64% lower risk of memory loss or concentration issues. This risk reduction was almost 20% higher than study participants who drank black tea. Another study of people with signs of impaired thinking (cognitive decline) found that green tea decreased certain molecules called biomarkers linked to Alzheimer’s disease.

Some healthcare professionals have noted that those with type 2 diabetes or at risk for prediabetes may benefit from consuming more green tea. High levels of the amino acid, L-theanine, has been shown to may prevent diabetes. It is still important to be mindful of the type of amount of sweetener that is used especially if at risk for diabetes.

Studies have shown that men who drink more than 10 cups of green tea per day are less likely to develop liver problems. Green tea also seems to protect the liver from the damaging effects of toxic substances such as alcohol.