DR. WALKER

Green Tea: Health Benefits

Name and Origin:

Green tea, known for its refreshing taste and numerous health benefits, has its origins in China, where it has been enjoyed for thousands of years. This aromatic beverage is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant and is renowned for its rich cultural significance and therapeutic properties (Maiden, n.d.).

Benefits

Green tea is celebrated for its potent antioxidants, such as catechins and polyphenols, which help combat inflammation and protect cells from damage. Regular consumption of green tea has been associated with a reduced risk of heart disease, improved brain function, and weight management. Additionally, its metabolism-boosting properties make it a popular choice for individuals seeking to enhance their fitness and overall well-being (Sass, 2023).

Expanded Health Benefits of Green Tea

 High in Antioxidants: Green tea is loaded with antioxidants that can help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to aging and diseases.

 Reduce the Risk of Heart Disease: Studies have shown that drinking green tea may help reduce the risk of heart disease by improving blood flow, reducing inflammation, and reducing cholesterol levels.

 Help with Weight Loss: Green tea contains compounds that can help boost metabolism and increase fat burning, which may help with weight loss.

 Improve Brain Function: Green tea contains caffeine and a compound called L-theanine, which can help improve brain function, including improved mood, alertness, and memory.

 Lower the Risk of Certain Cancers: Studies have shown that drinking green tea may help lower the risk of certain types of cancer, such as breast, prostate, and colorectal cancer.

 Help with Diabetes: Green tea may help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity, which may help with diabetes management.

Other Names

Green tea is known by various names in different cultures. Matcha, sencha, green tea extract, yabukita are some names by which green tea is referred to (Green Tea - Uses, Side Effects, and More, n.d.).

Adverse Reactions

Although green tea is generally safe for most people, excessive consumption can lead to caffeine-related side effects, such as insomnia, irritability, and rapid heartbeat. It is important to consume green tea in moderation to avoid such adverse reactions (Sass, 2023).

Contraindications

Individuals with certain health conditions, such as anxiety disorders, should exercise caution when consuming large amounts of green tea, as its caffeine content may exacerbate these conditions. If you already consume stimulant drugs then you should avoid consumption of green tea along with those drugs as it may cause your heart rate and blood pressure to increase. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also consult their healthcare provider before incorporating green tea into their diet (Sass, 2023).

Drug Interactions

Green tea may interact with certain medications, such as stimulant drugs, ephedrine, atorvastatin, and birth control pills. It is advisable to seek medical advice before consuming green tea if you are taking prescription medications to avoid potential interactions (Green Tea - Uses, Side Effects, and More, n.d.).

Dose

For optimal health benefits, aim to consume 2-3 cups of green tea per day. This moderate intake provides an adequate dose of antioxidants and other beneficial compounds without excessive caffeine intake. For ointment dose, it is better to consult with your healthcare provider to figure out what product and dose would be best for your condition (Green Tea - Uses, Side Effects, and More, n.d.).

References:

Green Tea - Uses, Side Effects, and More. (n.d.). Retrieved from WebMD:
Maiden, Z. (n.d.). Green Tea 101 | History, Processing, and Health Benefits. Retrieved from hackberrytea.com: