that the topical application of green tea polyphenols before exposure prevented the occurrence of UV-induced skin cancer. However, there is no conclusive evidence that drinking green tea provides the same protection.

Healthy Cardiovascular System
Ten different studies showed similar results about the effect of flavonoids on heart disease, heart attacks , and death by heart disease. Drinking three cups a day reduced the incidence by 11%.

Stroke Prevention
Again, those flavonoids help with stroke prevention by improving endothelial function, and reducing blood cholesterol levels. Endothelial is to do with the lining of blood vessels, and helps prevent plaque build up in veins, that can cause strokes or heart attack.

Stronger Immune System
The antioxidants in tea called flavonoids help protect the body against free radicals, that damage cells. Green tea contains 150-200 mg of flavonoids.

Hydrated Body
Drinking tea DOES contribute to body hydration. In the past it was believed that anything containing caffeine dehydrated the body.

Weight Loss
Drinking green tea is found to increase the fat burning capacities of the body. The verdict is still out about it being an actual useful weight loss tool.

Better Digestion
Green tea helps with better digestion by promoting regular elimination. Also, a hot cup of green tea can reduce the feeling of a queasy stomach.

Fight Inflammation
Studies of cells have shown that flavonoids in green tea have anti-inflammatory, and anti-allergic properties. My husband is allergic to peanuts, and has found if he is not having a serious attack, that just drinking tea reduces the hives and itching.

Fight Bacteria, and Viruses
Flavonoids help the immune system resist viral and bacterial agents.

Fight Tumors
Studies on animals suggest that the flavonoids in tea help prevent, or delay formation of tumors in the skin, lung, esophagus, stomach and colon. The flavonoids cut down the growth rate of precancerous cells, and helps the body rid itself of carcinogens.

Green tea is made with un-fermented leaves of camellia sinesis, and contains the highest concentration of antioxidants, compared to other teas. Can drinking green tea save lives? Not all studies are complete. Scientist are learning more about this fabulous beverage. You may not be able to prove whether it has improved your quality of life, or saved your life. But, for the small discipline of drinking two to three cups of green tea a day, it is a worthwhile beverage to add to your diet.

For More Information
Sources:
http://www.lipton.com
http://www.umm.edu

Learn more about this author, Kathleen Couch.
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