“Thank God for tea! What would the world do without tea! How did it exist? I am glad I was not born before tea.” – SYDNEY SMITH
Free radicals
Free radicals are naturally present in the body and help our immune system by neutralising viruses and bacteria. However, environmental factors such as pollution, cigarette smoke and herbicides can lead to our body containing an excessive level, which can then damage our healthy cells.
Antioxidants are needed to help prevent the free radicals destructive behaviour on our cells. As soon as free radicals are created, they are checked by antioxidant enzymes in our body and dealt with. When the ratio of free radicals becomes too high for our enzymes or antioxidant nutrients to deal with, health problems arise. It is important to remember that free radical damage will also accumulate with age.
As well as being found in fruit and vegetables, high levels of antioxidants are also found in green tea. Green tea contains a potent polyphenol called epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG).
A healthy heart
A study in Japan found an average decrease of eight cholesterol levels for men with the highest intake of green tea compared to men that drank the lowest levels.
Hydration
70% of our body is water and it is important we keep replacing lost fluids throughout the day to optimise the function of all aspects of our bodies. The recommended daily intake of water is 2.5 litres and many people struggle with this. Green and white tea is low in caffeine (20-25mg per cup compared to 150mg in a coffee) so will count towards your daily intake of fluids.
Weight loss
Whilst being overweight can make us feel unattractive on the outside, it is also puts a terrific strain on our body on the inside. Green tea is low in calories. The leaves of the tea plant are thermogenic, which means you can enjoy green tea whilst raising your metabolism but not increasing your heart rate.
Anxiety and stress
L-theanine is an amino acid that promotes a feeling of calm and relaxation as it affects chemicals such as dopamine and serotonin in the brain. These chemicals affect our moods so coupled with the caffeine content, we are left feeling with increased energy and wellbeing.
Drinking as little as 3 cups per day can have a positive effect on your body and mind and contributes to your daily fluid intake. With so many different types to choose from we hope everyone is able to find a flavour to suit their palate and experimenting with the range of varieties is all part of the wonderful experience.