Benefits of green tea and a must try recipe!

green_tea2_246328779.jpg

March 30, 2011 – The benefits of green tea have always been known in the Far East.  Written records show the Chinese used green tea to treat anything from headaches to depression since 4000 years ago.

In modern day medicine, researchers have been eagerly pursuing the benefits of green tea as early research has shown cancer fighting properties.  In a 1994 Journal of the National Cancer Institute, scientists found that the Chinese reduced their risks of esophageal cancer by nearly 60%.  Similar studies have found that green tea inhibits the growth of cancer cells and may kill cancerous cells without harming healthy cells.  Green tea has also been shown to reduce the formation of blood clots and thus, reduces the risk of heart attacks.  Other benefits?  Consistent consumption of green tea will increase your metabolism and kill bacteria, which may prevent tooth decay and weight loss!

Is there anything the magical green tea does not do?

At the end of the day, green tea is still a “tea”.  Though the caffeine found in green tea is less than coffee, insomnia may still be a side effect.  Avoid consuming green tea 4 hours prior going to sleep to prevent losing sleep over tea!

The differences between green tea, Oolong and black teas?

Though green tea, Oolong and black teas come from the same plant – Camellia sinensis; the benefits of each tea vary due to different processing methods.  Green tea leaves are steamed which prevent the important antioxidants from oxidizing.  Oolong and black tea leaves are fermented which ultimately decreases the benefits of the plant.  Green tea is still best!

green_tea_003_754964485.jpg

QUICK DELICIOUS GREEN TEA FIX

Lemon Honey Ginger Iced Green Tea

 

Ingredients

2 cups water

¼ cup honey

1 teaspoon ground ginger 

2 teaspoons grated lemon peel

6 green tea bags

4 teaspoons fresh lemon juice

 

Preparation

1. Bring water, honey, ground ginger, lemon peel to a boil and simmer for 8 minutes.  

2. Remove mixture from heat and add tea bags.  Steep for minimum 10 minutes.

3. Remove tea bags and stir lemon juice into the mixture. 

4. Refrigerate.  

5. Serve with sparking water or club soda with ice.  Enjoy!

 

Sponsored