Remarkable Benefits of Green Tea

Japan is one of the countries with high life expectancy of its people; the reason perhaps is due to their healthy lifestyle and healthy diet. Working as a caregiver here in Japan, I am blessed to have the opportunity to get a glimpse on how the Japanese elderly live on a daily basis and I am specifically curious on what they eat that makes them healthy, fit, and continue to live longer. The eldest in the day service is 101 years old and the youngest being 75 years old. What I notice the most is that they are most of the time drinking tea specifically green tea. Upon their arrival at the day service they are served with green tea some even ask for “okawari” or refill. During lunch their meals are also served with green tea.

Green tea is renowned for its numerous health benefits, backed by scientific research. Some of the key benefits of drinking green tea include:

Rich in Antioxidants: Green tea is loaded with antioxidants, such as catechins and polyphenols, which help in combating oxidative stress and reducing the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease.

Heart Health: Regular consumption of green tea has been associated with lower levels of cholesterol and triglycerides, reducing the risk of heart disease. It may also help in improving blood vessel function and lowering blood pressure.

Weight Management: Green tea has been shown to boost metabolism and increase fat oxidation, making it beneficial for weight loss and weight management when combined with a healthy diet and exercise.

Brain Health: The catechins in green tea have neuroprotective properties, which may help in reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Additionally, green tea contains caffeine and the amino acid L-theanine, which can improve brain function, mood, and cognitive performance.

Improved Dental Health: Green tea possesses antibacterial properties that can help in inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth, reducing the risk of cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.

Lower Risk of Type 2 Diabetes: Some studies suggest that green tea consumption may improve insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Cancer Prevention: While more research is needed, some studies suggest that the antioxidants in green tea may help in preventing certain types of cancer, such as breast, prostate, and colorectal cancer, by inhibiting the growth of cancer cells.

Skin Health: Green tea contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help in improving skin health, reducing the signs of aging, and protecting against sun damage.

Liver Health: Green tea may support liver health by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, as well as promoting the detoxification process.

Hydration: Green tea is a hydrating beverage that can contribute to your daily fluid intake, helping to keep you hydrated throughout the day.

For Japanese people drinking green tea is a lifestyle. I drink my green tea in the morning and sometimes at night when I decide to read a book, it makes me feel relax. One thing I noticed is that continuous drinking of green tea helps me cut my desire for eating anything sweet.

It’s important to note that while green tea offers numerous health benefits, its best consumed in moderation as excessive intake can lead to side effects such as insomnia, digestive issues, and caffeine-related issues for some individuals. Additionally, for those sensitive to caffeine, opting for decaffeinated green tea is a good alternative.