Health benefits of drinking green tea have been renowned in the East for centuries. Packed with antioxidants, green tea contains more than 4,000 of these compounds which help fight free radicals which can lead to heart disease and cancer. Green tea supplements can also be effective.

Antioxidants in Green Tea

Green tea contains a very powerful group of antioxidant polyphenols called catechins. Many of health benefits of drinking green tea come from these. One particular catechin is epigallocatechin gallate which is thought to contribute to the cancer fighting effects of green tea. The Journal of the National Cancer Institute published results of a study that showed drinking green tea reduced the risk of esophageal cancer by nearly 60 percent.Another study found that catechin in green tea inhibited the growth of cancer cells. It is now usually accepted that the antioxidants in green tea may help prevent cancer of the bladder, colon, pancreas, esophagus, rectum and stomach.

A Healthy Heart Benefits From Green Tea

Both green and black teas have cholesterol-lowering properties which keep the heart healthy. Studies reported in Circulation Journal on “effects of green tea intake on the development of coronary artery disease” found the more green tea patients consumed, the less likely they were to suffer from heart disease.

Green Tea Supplements

Taking green tea in supplement form may be effective as well. Many weight loss supplements contain extract of green tea. But , as a weight loss aid it may be a better thought to really drink the tea very than take it in supplement form. Studies have shown those drinking green tea are able to control their appetites better and it also helps keep the body well hydrated. Experts suggest four cups of green tea a day will give maximum benefit. This equates to roughly three capsules of green tea extract. The health benefits of drinking green tea, will continue to unfold as we learn more and more about it.