Ever wonder what it is in green tea that makes it so healthy? I have, and so I looked it up on the web, and guess what… I was overwhelmed. It seems a lot of people say it’s wonderful, even more people are selling it as a pill, and scientists (as always) are still working on it.
So what are the facts?
- The antioxidants, specifically catechins (ka-teh-kins), found in green tea, have shown potential value in helping prevent certain cancers, reducing the risk of stroke and heart attack, and supporting a healthy immune system.
- Catechins also appear to enhance exercise-induced abdominal fat loss.
- Green tea contains caffeine which is a stimulant that aids alertness, and promotes endurance during workouts.
- Green tea itself, contains zero calories.
How to Get the Most out of Every Cup:
It’s the catechins in green tea that are credited for its enhancement of weight loss and health benefits. These potent antioxidants are easily destroyed in non-acidic environments, particularly the intestines, so less than 20% remains after digestion.
A study from Purdue University found that lemon juice preserved up to 80% of catechins!
In descending order: Orange, lime, and grapefruit juices also had stabilizing power.
So…
- When taking a green tea supplement, make sure it contains vitamin-C (ascorbic acid) or drink citrus juice with it to preserve antioxidants.
- Or simply enjoy a cup of green tea with lemon, and just a teaspoon of sugar (only 15 calories), which is a healthy way to stay hydrated and cut calories.
- There are even more ways to prepare green tea, some of them surprising. Click here for some easy and unique green tea recipes.
| Vitamin World: Green Tea Extract |
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