Is Green Tea Worth the Hype?

Green Tea continues to gain popularity in the United States, but did you know it’s the most consumed beverage in the world other then water?  Green tea is over 4000 years old, originating in China. Recently there has been a surge, and consumption has grown 60% in the last decade.  Is this wave warranted or is it just a fad? Based on some significant health benefits that have now been proven, I am betting the green tea infatuation is here to stay with good reason.  

One of green tea’s countless health benefits is its’ positive effect on cholesterol levels.  Green tea has an active ingredient called catechin, which lowers LDL levels, or bad cholesterol.  It also increases HDL, the good cholesterol.  Additionally it prevents the absorption of cholesterol in the intestines.  So if your levels of LDL or total cholesterol are higher then you want, drinking green tea on a daily basis could be helpful.

Green tea is also proven to boost brain health.  It contains L-theanine, an amino acid that improves the brain’s performance.  Recent studies have shown that green tea extract increases cognitive functions, specifically the working memory. It is protective of the brain as we age, thus lowering the risk of degenerative disease. If you have had dementia or Alzheimer’s in your family, you may want to add green tea to your routine.  

Green tea is packed with antioxidants that come in the form of flavonoids.  These flavonoids fight against disease, including cancer.  They also protect against cell damage.  Whether you are trying to fight or prevent disease, antioxidants are good for the diet!

Green tea naturally increases metabolism. It can improve your body’s efficiency for burning energy. In addition to assisting in burning fat, it is also a natural appetite suppressor.  This does not mean it will melt the pounds off, but it is proven to have a small positive effect on weight management. 

Consider adding green tea to your healthy diet.  Swap out your calorie filled drink for a cup of tea. Small positive changes can yield significant results. Green tea is the least processed of any other tea, making it the best choice in my opinion.  And it is not only to drink it in your teacup; you can have it in your smoothie or even in your baked goods.  Whatever your choice, don’t miss out on this wonder! Like I said, this precious green leaf is here to stay.