- It is a brain booster. The well known stimulant in tea, caffeine, has brain tonic effects, and can aid in focus, concentration, and energy. The lower doses of caffeine and combination with L-theanine an amino acid, can produce a mellow and relaxed buzz when compared to the jittery effects of coffee. L-theanine also stimulates the neurotransmitter GABA and can increase dopamine levels as well.
- Green tea fights cancer. Whether through anti-oxidants or through interactions of the complex chemistry of brewed tea leaves, studies have repeatedly shown that regular drinkers of green tea get less cancer. This is probably one of the main reasons that tea drinking spread through Asia and tea's reputation there as a longevity elixir.
- Fat burning. While not all metabolism studies agree at this point, some have found clear increase in energy production, with increased metabolism. What sets green tea apart in these studies is evidence that fat metabolism specifically accounts for most of the increase in energy.
- It kills bacteria and freshens breath. Tea has natural antibiotic properties which begin at the mouth and can pass through the digestive system and urinary tract. Green tea preparations have been used for centuries in Chinese medicine for their antiseptic properties.
- Heart Attack and Stroke. There is evidence that catechins in green teas, lowers cholesterol, especially LDL, so-called “bad” cholesterol. High cholesterol levels are definitely related to cardiovascular disease, and a cup of green tea is an easy addition to help lower risk factors.
- Blood Sugar and Diabetes. Tea consumption has been associated with a significantly lower risk of type 2 diabetes, alas, only for heavy tea drinkers. For normal consumers though tea can help lower blood sugar and increase sensitivity to naturally produced insulin, making the disease more manageable.
For more information on the amazing benefits of green tea, check out this great article at Authority Nutrition, which includes lots of links to original studies, and details on some of the healthy compunds in tea.