GREEN TEA AND IT'S HEALTH BENEFITS

Green tea

INTRODUCTION
 Green tea originated in China, but it has become associated with many cultures throughout Asia. It is made from the leaves from Camellia sinensis that have undergone minimal oxidation during processing and it is rich in anti oxidant. Green tea has become the raw material for extracts which are used in various beverages, health foods, dietary supplements, and cosmetic items. Many varieties of green tea have been created in the countries where it is grown. These varieties can differ substantially due to variable growing conditions, horticulture, production processing, and harvesting time.

How are antioxidants good for our body?
Our body has many free radicals (molecules produced when the body breaks down food or due to smoking, drinking, etc) and antioxidants are substances which prevent our cells from the damage caused by the action of these free radicals.

Health benefits of green tea
- The antioxidants in green tea help to burn fat. Fat accumulation leads to blockage of heart. If we drink green tea at least once a day we can reduce the risk of heart ailments.
- This type of tea increases the good cholesterol and reduces the bad cholestrol in one’s body.
- It is also recommended for those who have suffered from heart ailment as green tea can make the heart strong
- It targets belly fat. Research at Tufts University indicates that EGCG(epigallocatechin gallate) in green tea, like other catechins, activate fat-burning genes in the abdomen to speed weight loss by 77 percent.

 - It keeps energy stable by balancing blood sugar levels. EGCG(epigallocatechin gallate) improves insulin use in the body to prevent blood sugar spikes and crashes that can result in fatigue, irritability, and cravings for unhealthy foods.

 - Research shows it may be helpful against lung cancer. In an April 2010 study published in Cancer Prevention Research, EGCG was found to suppress lung cancer cell growth.

- In research it appears to cause prostate cancer cells to commit suicide. A March 2010 study in Cancer Science indicated that EGCG aids the body by causing prostate cancer cells to commit suicide. LOL.

- It may prevent skin damage and wrinkling. EGCG appears to be 200 times more powerful than vitamin E at destroying skin-damaging free radicals. Free radicals react with healthy cells in the body, causing damage so lessening their numbers may help reduce wrinkling and other signs of aging.