Green tea comes from the tea plant (Camellia sinensis) and has become known primarily through its use as the hot beverage “tea”. As an extract, green tea is also frequently used in food supplements due to the large amount of active substances that exert a positive effect on health.
Green Tea
Green tea is one of the oldest beverages in the world and used to be drunk mainly in Asia because of its health effects. This drink is prepared from the young leaves of the tea plant (Camellia sinensis). Meanwhile, it is known all over the world and is one of the most consumed beverages in the world. Green tea is unfermented tea which retains most of its polyphenols. Black tea is also made from the leaves of the tea plant but these undergo a fermentation step which means that a large proportion of the polyphenols are lost through oxidation.
Green tea: versatile and powerful support in healthy aging
The main polyphenols present in green tea are catechins, the most powerful of which is epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). Green tea is also widely used as an extract in food supplements. To choose a quality extract, make sure that the product is standardized on a high dose of active substances such as EGCG. This ensures a relevant and high amount of these powerful and active substances.
The catechins from Green Tea are strong antioxidants, they protect cells from oxidative stress and therefore have a positive influence on e.g. the eyes and skin health. Furthermore, they help strengthen the natural resistance and support the immune system. They also contribute to good cardiovascular health by providing support in various areas such as heart and blood vessels, cholesterol and blood glucose levels.
The fact that green tea is a true all rounder is confirmed by the fact that in addition to all the above positive effects, it is also good for digestion, cognitive functions such as memory and concentration and energy levels both mentally and physically. Moreover, green tea also helps in weight management.
Also, the compound L-theanine in green tea can provide mental support and help with a good night’s sleep.
Where should you pay attention to when buying a green tea supplement?
Make sure you purchase a quality green tea extract and that it is standardized on relevant active substances such as polyphenols and EGCG. To get enough active substances from a cup of green tea, you already need to drink large amounts. Green tea also naturally contains caffeine which some people do not tolerate very well in these quantities. When you buy a food supplement with green tea extract, it is best to choose one that does not contain caffeine or contains a low amount of caffeine.
