Health Benefits of Green Tea and Other Supplements
There is a large body of evidence linking green tea consumption with lower cardiovascular disease. A study that followed more than 40,000 Japanese participants from age 40 to 79 for 11 years beginning in 1994 found that participants who consumed green tea were less likely to develop cardiovascular disease. Additionally, a 2016 meta-analysis of nine studies involved 259,267 individuals found that green tea consumption was associated with favorable outcomes for cardiovascular and ischemic diseases.
L-theanine
The effects of L-theanine are thought to be beneficial in treating anxiety and stress. It crosses the blood-brain barrier and acts directly on the brain to promote alpha waves, which help in creating a relaxed, wakeful state. Studies show that L-theanine can have a noticeable effect 30 to 60 minutes after consumption. However, it is important to consult with a health care provider before starting any supplementation.
EGCG
EGCG is a polyphenol found in green tea. It has been shown to inhibit DNA oxidation and prevent free radicals. It is also known to inhibit redox active transcription factors and chelate redox active transition metal ions. In addition, it inhibits the activity of certain enzymes involved in lipid biosynthesis. Other potential uses of EGCG are its ability to reduce stress levels and prevent cardiovascular disease.
L-theaflavin
L-theaflavin is an antioxidant that can improve the health of the body. This substance is a polymeric polyphenol. Its synthesis involves an enzyme called polyphenol oxidase. This enzyme catalyzes the oxidation of flavanoids into quinones. In the body, polyphenols are known to have a number of benefits, including improved mental health.
Theaflavin
Theaflavins are a polyphenol that has several health benefits. They are antioxidants and can protect fat cells from free radicals. They may also protect blood vessels and the heart. In animal studies, theaflavins can reduce plaque formation in blood vessels and increase the levels of nitric oxide, a gas that helps the blood vessels dilate. Additionally, these polyphenols may help promote the breakdown of fats.
Thearubigins
Researchers recently published a review on the benefits of thearubigins, a type of polyphenol found in black tea. Although the health benefits of black tea are well known, the specific role of thearubigins is not fully understood. However, a few recent studies have revealed some promising results.
Polyphenol antioxidants
The polyphenol antioxidants in green tea are thought to help prevent or reduce the severity of some chronic diseases, including arthritis. These polyphenols also protect against cartilage breakdown and prevent joint pain and swelling. In addition, studies have shown that they may slow the onset of Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.
Health benefits
Green tea is an antioxidant and contains polyphenols that may protect cells from free radicals. It can also lower blood pressure. The tea's powerful antibacterial properties can decrease the severity of viral infections and can speed the healing process. It may even protect against heart attacks. The antioxidants in green tea may also lower inflammation in the body.
Origins
Green tea is a type of tea that is harvested from the leaves of the tea plant. It is less processed than other types of tea and contains more catechins and antioxidants. It is native to China, but it has spread to many nations in East Asia. The origins of this tea date back to 2737 BC, when the Chinese emperor Shennong accidentally drank water that had fallen off a tea leaf. The tea's delicious aroma and unique flavor made it a favorite drink of the emperor.
Caffeine
The caffeine in green tea is different than the caffeine found in coffee. It comes from an amino acid called L-theanine, which affects the brain to produce a feeling of alertness and calmness. One study that tested the effects of L-theanine found that people who consumed green tea had higher alpha brainwave activity, which is associated with a calm mental state.
