Green tea originates from China and is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, with a history dating back over 3,000 years. With just 2 calories per cup, green tea is a light drink that contains no significant amounts of protein, fat, carbohydrates, or sugar (unless you add honey or raw sugar). However, it is rich in antioxidants, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious individuals.
5 surprising health benefits of drinking green tea daily – 1Drinking green tea regularly provides numerous health benefits (Image: Shutterstock).
Hidden Health Benefits of Green Tea
While a single cup of green tea may not provide significant benefits, maintaining a daily habit of drinking green tea can lead to surprising health improvements. Consuming up to 8 cups per day is considered safe, but it’s important to consider your caffeine intake and choose the right type of tea for you.
1. Enhances Cognitive Health and Focus
If you’re preparing for an exam or an important presentation, consider drinking a cup of green tea beforehand. According to research from Verywell, green tea can improve focus and alertness. A meta-analysis of 49 studies concluded that regular green tea drinkers performed better on extended cognitive tests.
2. Supports Immune System Function
Green tea contains powerful antioxidants like catechins, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which help support the immune system. These compounds protect the body from free radicals and oxidative stress, thereby boosting immunity. The polyphenols in green tea also positively influence gut bacteria, promoting the production of antioxidant enzymes.
3. Supports Heart Health
Green tea can also contribute to heart health by reducing cholesterol levels and blood pressure. In a meta-analysis, healthy adults who incorporated green tea into their diet saw an average reduction of 2.99 mmHg in systolic blood pressure and 0.95 mmHg in diastolic blood pressure. This can help lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
4. May Prevent Certain Types of Cancer
Studies suggest that green tea may play a role in preventing certain types of cancer, such as prostate, breast, bladder, and ovarian cancers. However, more research is needed to confirm these links. Dr. William Li, a physician and food scientist, notes that steeping time can affect the release of natural anti-cancer compounds. Longer steeping or reusing tea bags can enhance effectiveness.
5. Reduces Symptoms of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases
Green tea contains many antioxidants and polyphenols that reduce inflammation by eliminating harmful free radicals from cells. Therefore, drinking green tea can improve symptoms of inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. The polyphenols in green tea are associated with inflammatory processes and the severity of symptoms in people with inflammatory bowel diseases.
Potential Side Effects
Although green tea is generally safe when consumed in moderation, excessive consumption can lead to side effects such as insomnia, restlessness, and increased heart rate. It’s best to consult a healthcare provider if you have any concerns.
