Green tea may help support cognition, maintenance of moderate weight, and offer some protection against cancer.
Green tea is touted to be one of the healthiest beverages on the planet that could have many potential health benefits.
1. Contains plant-based antioxidant compounds
Green tea has polyphenol antioxidants, including a catechin called EGCG. These antioxidants could have various beneficial effects on health.
2. May improve cognitive function
Green tea has functional ingredients that may combine to improve brain function and cognitive health. Green tea seems to be linked with a lower chance of cognitive impairment in middle and older age.
3. Could help with fat burning
Green tea may increase metabolic rate and increase fat burning in the short term, although not all studies agree. Green tea’s ability to improve fat burning is improved when paired with exercise.
4. Might lower the risk of some cancers
There is some evidence of a relationship between drinking green tea and less chance of certain cancers. But, much more research in humans is needed to better explore this.
5. May protect the brain from aging
The bioactive compounds in green tea may support brain health. Green tea could be linked with less likelihood of neurodegenerative disease, but more clinical studies in humans are needed to clarify any effect.
6. Could help with oral health
There is encouraging evidence that green tea could help with oral health, but additional studies are needed.
7. May help with the managing blood sugar
The research is mixed on the role green tea may play in lowering the risk of type 2 diabetes, or helping with the overall management of type 2 diabetes.
8. Might help prevent heart disease
Green tea could help lower some markers of heart disease. Studies show that people who drink green tea have a lower chance of heart disease, but more clinical evidence is needed to confirm the findings.
9. May help you lose weight
Some studies show that green tea may lead to increased weight loss and lower fat accumulation in the abdominal area.
10. Might help you live longer
Studies show that people who drink green tea may live longer than those who don’t. (Healthline)
Medically reviewed by Kathy W. Warwick, RDN, CDCES, Nutrition — Written by Kris Gunnars, BSc and Dylan Bailey, MS, RD, FAND
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