Millions of people throughout the world drink green tea on a daily basis. And now science is proving that there are significant benefits to drinking this healthy and popular beverage. The Asians have known the health benefits of green tea for thousands of years. In fact they have used it in Eastern medicine for a variety of ailments such as heart health, indigestion and urinary tract infections. It has been shown through various scientific studies to be beneficial to several medical conditions. These include cancer, cardiovascular disease and arthritis.
Green Tea and Cancer: Numerous scientific studies have been conducted showing the health benefits for cancer. Results of these studies have shown that the tea may inhibit the growth of cancer cells. In countries where it is consumed on a daily basis such as Japan, there are much lower rates of cancer. Although not conclusive, it may be that the polyphenols that are found in green tea have an affect on slowing down or destroying cancerous cells within the body. Studies have been conducted on the relationship between this beverage and several different types of cancer.
Breast cancer.A study involving over 400 women with breast cancer was conducted by researchers. The women all had various stages of breast cancer. The researchers assessed how the consumption of green tea affected these women and their cancerous condition. The results found that the women who consumed the most had a slower rate of the cancer spreading than those who did not. Additionally early stage breast cancer participants were found to have a lower rate of breast cancer recurrence. Although this and other similar studies are not entirely conclusive it appears that drinking tea may in fact reduce the risk of breast cancer for women
Skin cancer.Green tea may be beneficial to the prevention of skin cancer. This may be due to the fact that the polyphenols within it create an anti-inflammatory response in the body. This may be helpful to the prevention of skin growths which may lead to skin cancer. Additional studies have been done and continue to be done in every area of cancer research. There is great potential to find a link between the consumption of green tea and the potential benefits of doing so to the treatment and prevention of cancer.
Green Tea and Cardiovascular Disease: Various studies have been conducted on the potential benefits for cardiovascular disease. It appears it may be helpful in reducing cholesterol and triglyceride levels. According to a study described in the European Journal of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation, researchers concluded that green tea may have the ability to improve endothelial cell function which helps to prevent arteries from clogging, also known as "atherosclerosis." The antioxidants known as "flavonoids" have been shown to protect the heart. Studies are ongoing in this area and more exciting links may emerge as to the benefits to heart health.
Green Tea and Arthritis: Arthritis is a very debilitating disease and affects over 2 million people in the United States alone. Studies have also been conducted on the potential health benefits for those suffering with arthritis. According to a 1999 Science Daily report, a study conducted at the CWRU School of Medicine examined the effect on mice that had arthritic induced conditions. The results of the study concluded that the mice that were given the green tea had a 50 percent reduction in developing the arthritis. Of the mice that did not receive it, the percentage that developed arthritis was over 94%. It appears that the polyphenols are a very helpful antioxidant that works to protect the body from developing various diseases. Since arthritis is an inflammatory disease by nature, it may be helpful due to its anti-inflammatory properties and help to slow down the process of cartilage breakdown in the body.
Green tea can be consumed as a delicious beverage and is also available as a dietary supplement that can be found in most health food stores. It is not recommended for children. As with any dietary supplement one must always consult with their medical practioner particularly is you are currently taking prescription medications or other supplements that may interact negatively. People with kidney problems and stomach ulcers should not take it. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also avoid green tea.
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