Green tea or black tea? Which is better? Well, the level of oxidation of the leaves determines the type of tea. Green tea is made from unoxidized leaves and is one of the least processed types of tea. Hence it also contains the most antioxidants and beneficial polyphenols and comparatively less caffeine. Since most of the purported health benefits from tea are attributed to the free radical killing antioxidants, the choice should be clear.
Here are some of the major benefits are
Oral Health: It is helpful in preventing bad breath, dental cavities, and decay. Anti-oxidants are also beneficial for building stronger gums and reducing plaque.
Heart Health: The antioxidant capacity of the blood can be increased by green teas polyphenols and anti-oxidants. Along with catechins, this protects the LDL particles from oxidation, which is one of the pathways towards cardiovascular disease.
Stimulates Hair Growth and Protects Skin against Sun Burn: Drinking green tea every day can promote hair growth and affords protection against sunburn. It is proven to tone the skin and give it a glow.
Reduces Cholesterol: Studies suggest that drinking green tea on a regular basis will reduce the total and LDL or bad cholesterol. Due to the presence of a large quantity of anti-oxidants, it increases the antioxidant capacity of the blood which prevents the LDL particles from oxidation. The Lower cholesterol means a decreased risk of heart disease.
Promotes Weight Loss: It boosts the metabolic rate and increases fat burning capacity of the body. It aids in increasing fat oxidation which mobilizes fatty acids from fat tissues and make them available for use as energy. This leads to positive and healthy weight loss which can sustain for a longer period.
Inflammatory Skin Disease: Inflammatory skin disease is characterized by patches of dry, red, flaky skin caused by the inflammation and over-production of skin cells. Consuming green tea will slow the growth of skin cells and inflammation.
Detoxifies: It helps in flushing out toxins from the body. When the unwanted wastes are flushed out of the body, you will feel renewed with more energy and work more productively.
Type-2 Diabetes:It is an excellent drink for diabetics as it has zero calories and helps to maintain healthy blood sugar levels. It aids in lowering the risk of diabetes in people who are prone to become diabetic.
Anti-Carcinogenic Effects: While it is not proved to cure cancer, studies reveal that the polyphenols which are present in green tea can decrease tumor growth and may protect against the harmful effects of chemotherapy treatment.
Sleep and Stree Reduction: Due to low caffeine content, green tea is less likely to impair sleep. It also promotes the production of dopamine which is a mood stabilizing enzyme and also helps to reduce stress and increase sleep.
