Green tea extract is produced from the leaves of the tea plant (camella sinensis), from which all the different variations of tea are derived from. The Chinese were the first to utilise the medicinal value of green tea extract for headache, body pains, indigestion, and for promoting overall health and life expectancy. In the 21st century, one of the greatest achievements in the field of nutrition is the confirmation of these traditional green tea extract benefits. In fact, many studies revealed that the benefits of green tea extract extend further to weight control, anti-aging, and anti-cancer.
Green tea extract has the ability to protect and maintain the normal structure of the DNA, plus stabilise cell membranes. These actions are accounted for green tea extract’s abundant content of highly powerful antioxidants called flavonols and polyphenols (catechins). A catechin called Epigallocatechin gallate (or simply EGCG) is the most powerful among these antioxidants. EGCG is concluded to be 25-100 times more powerful than Vitamins C and E. A cup of liquid green tea extract contains more antioxidants than a single serving of broccoli, carrots, spinach, and strawberries.
Green Tea Extract Benefits
- Green Tea extract naturally lowers serum cholesterol levels. Green tea extract supplements works like the prescription drugs Crestin, Lipitor, or Zocor. According to studies, Japanese middle-aged men and women who regularly drink 2 or more cups of green tea per day have normal serum cholesterol levels.
- Green tea extract protects the joints from osteoarthritis with its anti-inflammatory properties. With less inflammation, there is also less wear and tear in the joints, keeping them intact and flexible.
- Liquid green tea extract, capsule, or any form of green tea extract supplement can help in weight control. These products increase the number of calories burned by up to 4.5% and improves rate of fat metabolism.
- Green tea extract reduces the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. Its antioxidant properties prevent the formation of plaques in the arteries. Plaques are results of the accumulation of free radicals from oxidative processes occurring in the body.
- The catechins antioxidant in Green tea extract boosts the immune system. It does this by enhancing the activities of the Gamma Delta T cells which are integral parts of natural immunity.
- The anti-bacterial action of Green tea extract is used by the body to prevent dental plaques and gum diseases. Green tea is also rich in fluoride to protect the teeth from cavities.
- Creams, ointments, and lotions with green tea extract are becoming in the skin care market. These products prevent the skin signs of aging like fine lines, sagging, and wrinkles. The antioxidants in green tea attack the free radicals which damages the skin.
- By preventing damage in the DNA, emerging studies on green tea extract suggest that it lowers the risk of developing certain forms of cancer.
Green Tea Extract Side Effects
Insomnia is the only known side effect of green tea extract. This is due to its caffeine content, which is a lot lower than coffee’s caffeine content.
