All about green tea

WHAT IS GREEN TEA?

Green tea is mainly popular in Asia, but thanks to its beneficial physiological effects, among other things, nowadays it is also becoming increasingly popular in the West, where black tea was previously preferred.

In the most general sense, tea is a decoction of the leaves of a species of camellia (Camelia senensin). The green tea is obtained by wilting the tea leaves, then steaming them, and finally rolling and drying them.

THE ROLE OF GREEN TEA

Active substances in green tea

Green tea is one of the least processed teas. As a result, it also contains the most polyphenol antioxidants of all tea types, and its beneficial effects have been studied and proven by numerous studies. In addition to the polyphenols mentioned above, green tea contains compounds with beneficial effects on the body such as flavonoids, catechins, vitamins, minerals and caffeine. Its green colour comes from the chlorophyll in the leaves and has positive effects on the body such as antioxidant protection, antibacterial action, detoxification and reduction of inflammation in the body. Green tea contains vitamins such as vitamin C, vitamin B2, folic acid and vitamin E.

Green tea and antioxidant protection

Many studies have focused on the effects of the compounds in green tea on the body. Flavonoids, which have antioxidant activity, neutralise free radicals that accumulate in the body and can cause harmful changes. One important active ingredient found in green tea is EGCG, or epigallocatechin gallate, a catechin compound of the antioxidant polyphenol family, which has many health benefits. Together with other catechins, EGCG helps to protect against cellular damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are highly reactive molecules that have a cell-destroying effect in large quantities. Numerous studies suggest that EGCG and other antioxidant compounds may reduce inflammation and help prevent chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and certain cancers.

Green tea and heart health

The antioxidant effect of polyphenols may also play an important role in heart health. But the saponins in green tea are also worth mentioning. These compounds are antimicrobial substances that can have positive effects on the body such as lowering blood pressure. Research shows that the compounds found in green tea can support cardiovascular health by reducing blood pressure, cholesterol levels and the build-up of deposits in blood vessels. These positive effects can all help to reduce the risk of heart disease.

Green tea and weight loss

One of the most popular active ingredients for athletes and dieters is caffeine. Among the synthetic and herbal fat-burning agents, caffeine-containing products are coming to the fore, with green tea being the most prominent. The composition of green tea is characterised by its high caffeine content and, as mentioned above, its antioxidant compounds. Caffeine is an organic compound found in many plants, including tea, coffee, guarana and cola nuts. It stimulates the central nervous system, boosts metabolism and reduces fat stores by breaking down fat in adipose tissue. This action increases the level of free fatty acids in the blood, which can result in fat burning instead of carbohydrate consumption. However, caffeine-containing products should be used with caution, as the body adapts easily to caffeine, which may not have the same intense effect as before. Green tea can play an important role in reducing obesity. It modulates fat metabolism through catechins, increases thermogenesis and, due to its caffeine content, also increases metabolism.

GREEN TEA PREPARATIONS

For the benefits of green tea to be felt in the body, several cups a day should be consumed. Drinking at least three cups of green tea a day, but preferably five cups, seems optimal to get the most health benefits. Fortunately, it is now easily and conveniently available as a dietary supplement.