DNA Health Guide: 5 amazing green tea benefits you must know about

Green tea has for many decades now has been popularised as a beverage that aids weight-loss. But, the lesser-known fact is that it has been a key component of traditional medicines for centuries in Asia. 

And while a lot of us have often seen celebrities and influencers talk about how one must consume green tea, we still fully do not know about its benefits. Not only does green tea help lose weight, but, enriched with powerful antioxidants, green tea supports the immune system to accelerate metabolism and strengthens it. Not to mention, of course, the refreshing earthy taste and exotic flavours it comes in.

Also, since most of us only focus on the one aspect for which green tea has become popular of late -- weight-loss ingredient -- we thought of listing down a few other benefits that might help you consider including green tea in your diet if you were at all thinking to do so but were sceptical. 

For this, we at DNA reach out to Garima Goyal, a qualified dietitian and health coach, to help us curate a list of green tea benefits. 

Take a look. 

Green tea strengthens the immune system 

Compared to other types of tea, green tea possesses the highest concentration of polyphenols (antioxidants), which facilitate its immune-boosting attribute. Regular consumption of green tea helps to prevent the formation of free radicals in the body, which result from oxidative stress. Since several chronic ailments have been linked to oxidative stress such as heart diseases, pulmonary disorders, diabetes, memory loss, depression, etc., green tea can be highly beneficial for optimal health. 

Also, stimulating the action of the immune system, green tea offers unrivalled protection against viruses and thus strengthens the body's defence system. 

Green tea supports bone health

With gradual ageing, the bone density starts to decrease, which increases the risk of osteoporosis in both elderly males and females. Ingesting the bioactive compounds of green tea can help to mitigate bone loss, improve bone mineral density, and decrease the risk of bone-related health problems. A group of cultured bone-forming cells present in green tea significantly promotes bone mineralization growth and slows the breakdown or weakening of bones. Also, absorption of green tea has no side-effects on bone health in patients suffering from chronic bone disorders.  

Green tea manages weight

EGCG, the super-powered flavonoid found in green tea, promotes metabolic health, reduces appetite, and thus aids weight loss. Stimulating the nervous system, caffeine and catechin in green tea promotes thermogenesis, burning of stored energy, and fat oxidation. For weight-conscious people, green tea has become a healthy “go-to” beverage, as it is a great alternative to unhealthy beverages such as lattes, sodas, juices, etc. Alkaline in nature, green tea increases the secretion of extra gastric juices that helps in digestion therefore, one must have a cup of green tea after a meal.

Green tea regulates hormonal levels 

During stressful situations, the body tends to release stress hormones, known as cortisol, which is associated with oxidative stress, shortened telomeres, weak immune functioning, inflammatory disorders, and more. The natural compounds of green tea help to regulate the production of cortisol in the body by counteracting oxidative stress and shortening telomeres. Having green tea can even help to control elevated insulin levels, which may result in endocrine disorders, heart health, diabetes, etc. Besides, green tea also helps to manage the symptoms of hyperthyroidism such as fatigue, sense of irritability, sensitivity to cold, etc.

Green tea reduces cholesterol risk

The high concentration of flavonoids in green tea decreases the absorption of cholesterol in the body, thus reduces the risk of heart diseases. Acting as an anticoagulant, green tea works as a natural blood thinner and reduces inflammation in blood vessels. Green tea also reduces the level of triglycerides and low-density lipoprotein in the body and thus improves heart health.
Green tea is also considered an 'anti-ageing' drink because the nutrients present in the potent drink helps to enhance longevity, reduces pre-mature ageing, and keep the skin youthful.