17 August 2025

Benefits of Green Tea

Green tea is a type of Camellia sinensis plant. This plant has been widely used for medicinal purposes in Japan and China for centuries.

Green tea is a popular type of tea often used in beverages, snacks, and even as a base ingredient in cosmetics. No wonder, considering its diverse and health-boosting components.

Here are some health benefits of green tea:

1. Burns Fat and Promotes Weight Loss
   The compounds in green tea can enhance fat burning and boost metabolic rates. A study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition involving 10 men consuming green tea extract showed an increase in calorie burning by up to 4%.
   Additionally, green tea helps reduce weight, especially in individuals with obesity. Regular consumption significantly reduces body fat, waist circumference, and abdominal girth. However, these benefits are maximized when paired with a healthy diet and regular exercise.

2. Enhances Mood
   Green tea contains L-theanine, which inhibits the activity of GABA, a neurotransmitter associated with anti-anxiety effects. L-theanine also increases dopamine levels, leading to mood improvement.

3. Prevents Type 2 Diabetes
   Type 2 diabetes occurs when blood sugar levels rise, and the body cannot effectively respond to insulin. Green tea can enhance insulin sensitivity, potentially helping prevent type 2 diabetes. However, further research is needed to confirm this benefit.

4. Improves Sleep Quality
   If you experience insomnia or difficulty sleeping, try consuming low-caffeine green tea. The L-theanine in green tea can reduce stress hormones and provide a relaxing effect, making it easier to fall asleep. For this benefit, brew low-caffeine green tea with warm water before bed.

5. Supports Brain Health
   Green tea helps reduce the risk of brain inflammation. Research by Xinya Xie from the Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Tea Science, Hunan Agricultural University in August 2022 highlights the benefits of L-theanine and epigallocatechin in regenerating and repairing nerve cells and slowing Alzheimer’s progression. The combination of L-theanine and caffeine improves connectivity between the right parietal lobe and the middle frontal gyrus in the brain, enhancing cognitive function. Regular consumption also reduces brain cell inflammation, lowering the risk of Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease.

6. Lowers Risk of Cardiovascular Diseases
   According to the study "Green Tea May Lower Heart Disease Risk" published on Harvard Medical School’s website, green tea reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases. The study found a 26% reduction in deaths from stroke and heart attack and a 28% decrease in coronary artery disease risk. Researchers also noted that green tea lowers LDL (bad cholesterol) levels, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

7. Boosts Brain Function
   Green tea contains active caffeine, a known stimulant that enhances brain function. Although the caffeine content is relatively low, it is sufficient to improve cognitive performance by blocking the inhibitory neurotransmitter adenosine, increasing concentration.

8. Eliminates Bad Breath
   Beyond being a beverage, green tea can also serve as a mouthwash. It contains tannins with antibacterial properties that prevent bacteria growth causing bad breath. Green tea also helps prevent dental cavities and plaque formation.

9. Promotes Skin Health
   Green tea is not just beneficial for the body; it offers various beauty benefits. Its antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties help maintain healthy skin by addressing acne and reducing excess oil production. Furthermore, it prevents premature aging and enhances skin elasticity.

Reviewed by : dr. Innosensius Ibnu Ishwara, M.K.K.

Source : Siloam Hospitals Health Article

Photo : freepik.com