Green tea is a rich decoction made from the leaves of the Camellia Sinensis plant. Of all the other tea varieties, green tea possesses a plethora of nutrient values that would benefit everyone. The steam-dry processing methods of green tea make it rich in nutrients and antioxidants. Unlike other tea leaves, green tea leaves are less processed. The major health benefits of green tea include stress relief, mental health, memory enhancement, etc. Read on to learn about the advantages of drinking green tea. 

Green Tea Benefits and Side Effects

Green Tea Benefits for Weight Loss

Catechins and Caffeine in green tea help in weight loss. These properties stimulate the body’s metabolism and burn fat more quickly. Green tea controls appetite, putting an end to frequent cravings. Individuals who want to lose weight can intake green tea instead of coffee or tea. Adding one or two cups of green tea to their diet might be beneficial. 

Tea O'Clock

Green Tea Enhances Cognitive Function

Green tea is rich in antioxidants which protect the brain from neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Plus, it helps protect against deadly cell damage which could cause chronic disease. 

Caffeine and L-theanine help regulate cognition, mood, and brain function—the rich compounds of green tea lower the risk of cognitive impairment in middle-aged and older adults.  

Green Tea Reduces Anxiety and Stress

The L-theanine amino acid in green tea reduces stress and anxiety by boosting the production of dopamine and serotonin.  The caffeine content in green tea acts as a stimulant boosting mood, energy levels, and memory. Research suggests that consuming 200–400 milligrams of L-theanine daily enhances mood and reduces stress. 

Read to know how to fight stress and anxiety with natural remedies

Green Tea Repairs Damaged Skin

The antioxidant and polyphenol compounds in green tea fight bacterial membranes to control acne production on the skin. Moreover, it repairs damaged skin cells and protects the skin’s elasticity. Green tea prevents wrinkles and deeply nourishes the skin. You can include green tea in your daily routine to keep your skin healthy. 

Green Tea Repairs Damaged Skin

Green Tea Stabilizes and Prevents Type 2 Diabetes

High blood sugar occurs due to inadequate insulin production or if the body doesn’t use the insulin properly. Studies suggest green tea may help stabilize blood sugar and reduce insulin resistance. 

Green Tea Prevents Certain Types of Cancer

Cancer occurs when free radicals affect the healthy cells of the body. Green tea contains antioxidants that can destroy free radicals and shield the cells and DNA from damage. It also reduces the risk of certain types of cancers like lung cancer and ovarian cancer. 

Green Tea Side Effects

Drinking green tea every day is indeed beneficial. Four to five cups of green tea is considered safe, but more than that could cause some side effects such as:

  •  Headache
  • Insomnia 
  • Dizziness
  • Dehydration  

If you have any health concerns, consult with your doctor about whether drinking green tea is safe or not. 

The nutritional benefits of green tea are plenty. Consider including green tea in your diet to gain all the benefits. Drinking a cup of green tea will help you lead a healthy lifestyle. 

Approach your health provider in case you have any doubts regarding the consumption of green tea.