Herbal health drinks are nothing new – it seems like there’s a new superfood-infused, super healthy drink on the market every other week.
There is one healthy drink, however, that has stood test of time.
In the Far East, green tea has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years to treat a range of ailments, from depression to headaches and arthritis. It’s even been claimed that a cup of green tea can prevent hair loss boost protection against dementia and even aid weight loss. But what’s the truth?
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What is green tea and why is it different to normal tea?
There are several types of tea, but they’re all made from the leaves of the same species of tea plant. The difference between white, green, or black tea is down to the level of oxidation in the leaves.
– White tea consists of young, barely oxidized tea leaves, thus remains light in colour.
– Black tea has been fully oxidised so the leaves are dark and the flavour is stronger.
– Green tea however, is produced by steaming freshly picked leaves which leaves little time for oxidation. As a result, it retains chlorophyll levels and its natural green colour.
What are the benefits of green tea?
With over 450 organic substances in it, the nutritional value of green tea is through the roof.
The most beneficial nutrients in green tea are polyphenols – micro chemical nutrients that are found in natural plant food sources. The polyphenols in green tea contain powerful antioxidants that work to neutralize the components that cause damage to the body.
Due to the lower oxidation, green tea leaves are thought to be richer in antioxidants, which are also great for maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system and good digestive health.
Green tea has also been alleged to help improve cholesterol levels and protect against the nerve cell damage associated with dementia and Alzheimers. Although these studies do not conclusively show that green tea is the cure, the fact that it has continued to be drunk for thousands of years should not be ignored.
By actively drinking more green tea and swapping out that 9am coffee, not only are you upping your fluid intake but you’re also replacing less-healthy highly caffeinated and sugary drinks that you may have drunk in its place.
It’s not completely guilt-free though. Green tea does contain some caffeine but it’s a very low level, usually about 1% – at least a third less than a cup of coffee.
