1. Health

Green Tea and Longevity

Health Benefits of Green Tea

From , former About.com Guide

Updated April 09, 2008

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Green Tea

Green Tea

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Popular in Asia for more than 5,000 years, green tea is quickly becoming a health drink around the world. Green tea was first introduced to the west by Turkish traders in the 6th century. All green tea is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinesis plant.

Green tea's health benefits are said to come from its high levels of antioxidants. Research has shown that antioxidants help the body to remove damaging free radicals. Because of its caffeine, green tea should be avoided by infants and children. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should drink green tea in limited amounts.

Green Tea for Longevity and Healthy Aging

The most common use of green tea is to help the body age well. The antioxidants in green tea are thought to erase some of the negative effects of aging on the body. Other uses of green tea are also popular, though there is little research to support most of the uses. Remember that the lack of research for these conditions does not diminish the antioxidant benefits of green tea.

Uses of Green Tea With Unclear, Scant or Contradictory Research Results

  • Arthritis
  • Asthma
  • Cancer prevention
  • Cavity prevention
  • Diabetes prevention and treatment
  • Fertility treatment
  • Heart Attack prevention
  • Cholesterol and triglyceride improvement
  • Memory improvement
  • Menopause
  • Increase alertness
  • Weight loss

Next Anti-Aging Food: Red Wine

Source:

National Library of Medicine – Drug and Supplement Information. Green Tea.

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