Tea is a cup of life.

The green tea began to be used 3,000 years ago in China, numerous testimonies reveal that it was used to heal headaches, to eliminate toxins and preserve youth. But no one after them gave so much importance to this infusion until a few years ago when numerous scientific researches have demonstrated its many benefits.

But, what does it contain of such so beneficial?

First of all, we find catechin, molecules capable of improving some diseases and disorders of the body. In a laboratory test, it has been shown that high concentrations of this substance help to lower cholesterol levels in the blood and keep it within the normal parameters. Green tea also contains the amino acid theanine, some flavonoids called theaflavin and tearubigine with antioxidant action, more potent than vitamins C and E; it has anti-cancer, anti-aging and probiotic effects. Finally we find theobromine tannins and fluoride.

Let us now discover some recent studies that illustrate the benefits of this drink:

Green tea’s effect on glycaemic control

Observations on the possible role of green tea in controlling blood sugar are many and often contradictory. This research evaluated all the studies in which participants had regularly consumed green tea, with or without caffeine, for at least 3 weeks.

There was an important effect of reduction fasting blood glucose in all subjects regardless of sex, age, ethnicity, habitual caffeine consumption, and the health status of subjects tested.
It’s possible that this effect of green tea is attributable, at least in part, to the polyphenols (previously names) which, according to recent studies, would have an inhibitory action on the activity of intestinal amylase enzymes: an effect that slows the degradation of sugars and consequently glycaemic response.

The best way to get the most amount of catechin in a green tea cup is that of the infusion, resting it all for 5 minutes before drinking. Also, to avoid damaging some of the active ingredients, it’s recommended that the water that is poured into the cup or teapot (according to the method chosen) is not boiling, but a few degrees below (about 80°C).
Also valid for other drinks: don’t drink very hot liquids, better lukewarm. It’s important to note that even though the green tea has a large number of benefits, it also has a high caffeine content that, if taken in high doses, can cause anxiety and nervousness. The excess of green tea can also increase diuresis causing dehydration. If it take without food and too concentrated it can cause nausea and vomit. For all these reasons, controlled consumption is important. The recommended dose is 1 to 2 cups of 250 cc per day.