Green tea has been a popular drink for thousands of years, and for good reason. But what exactly happens to your body when you make it a daily habit? And how much green tea is safe to drink without risking any negative side effects? In this article, we’ll explore the science behind green tea, its health benefits, and the recommended amount to consume.

Health Benefits of Green Tea

May Reduce Inflammation

Inflammation is your body's natural response to injury and infection, but when it becomes chronic, it can lead to serious health issues like heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and cancer. Green tea, rich in antioxidants and polyphenols, can help manage inflammation. A 2022 study at Ohio State University found that green tea extract lowered blood sugar and reduced gut inflammation in both healthy individuals and those with metabolic syndrome.

Supports Brain Function

The American Heart Association suggests that drinking tea, alongside a heart-healthy diet, might improve brain function. Green tea contains L-theanine, an amino acid that enhances memory and reduces anxiety. A 2012 study in Neuropharmacology showed that participants who consumed 100 mg of L-theanine made fewer errors in an attention task than those who didn’t. When combined with caffeine, L-theanine further improved focus.

Might Improve Blood Sugar and Cholesterol Levels

Green tea could also protect against heart disease by promoting healthy cholesterol levels. Studies indicate that it may lower blood sugar and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. A 2018 study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that tea consumption slowed the age-related decline in HDL (good) cholesterol and reduced LDL (bad) cholesterol, thanks to the catechins, a type of antioxidant in green tea.

Aids in Digestion

Green tea can alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort and reduce bloating by eliminating excess gas in the intestines. A study in Microbiology & Immunology found that regular green tea drinkers had an increased proportion of Bifidobacteria, beneficial gut bacteria, suggesting that green tea may act as a prebiotic and improve colon health.

May Reduce the Risk of Cancer

The antioxidants in green tea, particularly polyphenols, help protect cells from oxidative damage, a major contributor to chronic illnesses and cancers. These polyphenols can prevent the formation of harmful free radicals, potentially lowering cancer risk. A 2019 review in Medicine found that habitual green tea drinkers had a 17% lower risk of developing breast cancer compared to non-drinkers.

Potential Risks of Green Tea

Iron Deficiency

While green tea is generally healthier than sugary drinks, excessive consumption can lead to iron deficiency. The tannins in tea can bind to iron, making it harder for your body to absorb this essential mineral. Drinking green tea after an iron-rich meal, though intended to aid digestion, might actually prevent iron absorption.

How Much Green Tea Is Too Much?

Green tea contains caffeine, so drinking too much can cause anxiety, restlessness, headaches, nausea, increased heart rate, or insomnia. The FDA recommends limiting caffeine intake to 400 mg per day, which is about 10 cups of green tea. Also, adding too much sugar or honey can negate its health benefits, so consider adding a slice of lemon instead.

How to Make Green Tea

Heat water to 170-185℉, just below boiling. Pour the water into a mug, add tea leaves or a tea bag, and steep for three minutes. Enjoy your green tea warm, but not too hot.

If you’re looking for green tea, Heavenly Bliss Green Tea is the best option to try. It has a medium-bodied profile characterized by delicate floral notes intertwined with herbaceous undertones, culminating in a velvety smooth finish. Indulge in the sheer pleasure of a mellow flavor experience, especially when served cold—a refreshing choice for a chilled brew on sweltering days.

The Bottom Line

Green tea offers numerous health benefits, including protection against cancer, heart disease, inflammation, and high blood pressure. However, it’s important to enjoy it in moderation. By doing so, green tea can be a delicious and beneficial part of a healthy lifestyle.