Green Tea - A Pleasant And Healthy Drink (part II)

Green tea - against which tumors

It is believed that the use of green tea reduces the risk of several cancers: skin, breast, lung, colon, esophageal, bladder, liver, ovarian, leukemia and oral leukoplakia. 
Green tea polyphenols, especially EGCG, increase natural antioxidant defenses and destroy free radicals. They have the ability to inhibit the formation and growth of tumor formations. They have an antimutagenic effect and reduce chromosome damage due to mutagenic exposure.

Cardiovascular diseases

The ingredients in green tea lower cholesterol by increasing HDL levels and lowering LDL levels. Heart disease is the result of oxidative stress and the accumulation of hydroxyl groups of chemical structures. The antioxidant effect of green tea helps lower cholesterol and protects the patency of arteries and ischemic heart disease. It is useful against atherosclerosis and in particular in coronary artery disease.

Metabolism and weight loss

Catechins increase thermogenesis. This leads to an increase in energy charge and oxidation of fats. The overall effect is to speed up metabolic processes and get rid of extra pounds. Due to these properties, green tea can be used as a means of weight control. The polyphenols in green tea prevent the formation of triglycerides, which reduces body fat.    
 

Oral hygiene

Green tea polyphenols have a strong effect as a local remedy and can prevent the development of gingivitis and periodontal disease, destroy E. coli and streptococci. Regular drinking of green tea reduces the risk of bacteria multiplying in the mouth, which can otherwise cause putrefactive processes in the oral cavity.
Only the tannin contained in green tea prevents the formation of dental plaque. This antibacterial action of tea can be used in the treatment of bad breath , which destroys the bacteria leading to its release.
Green tea contains several minerals, including fluoride and aluminum. It is known that fluoride takes care of the strength of the teeth.
 

Proper preparation and useful amounts

The best way to get catechins from green tea is to drink a freshly prepared decoction of dried leaves. Other green tea products, such as decaffeinated green tea, bottled ready-made tea drinks, have fewer nutrients.
It is better to use popular Chinese green tea brands such as Longjing (Dragonwell), Mao Jian, Bi Luo Chun, Gunpowder and Mao Feng.
The recommended amount for the day is 3-4 glasses. One cup of tea contains 50 to 150 mg of polyphenols.
When taking green tea extract as a supplement - the recommended dose is 300-400 mg per day.
To prepare the tea, put one teaspoon of dried leaves (5 g) per 1 cup of tea (250 ml) of boiling water. It is necessary to stand 3-5 minutes before serving to separate the catechins in the water.

Side effects, interactions, contraindications

Green tea is safe, non-toxic, no side effects are observed when using it. Because tea contains caffeine, large amounts can cause anxiety, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation, palpitations and headaches. Adding milk to tea eliminates unwanted side effects on the digestive system as it reduces the effect of tannins.
People with heart problems, kidney disease, stomach ulcers and psychological diseases are not recommended to drink green tea. 
Breastfeeding women should also keep in mind that the consumption of green tea, due to its caffeine content, affects the baby's sleep.
Those affected by iron deficiency anemia and when taking iron supplements should not drink green tea for several hours before and after the drug.
Green tea interacts with Doxorubicin and alkaline drugs. 
People on anticoagulant therapy should also be careful when drinking green tea.