The benefits of green tea and the dangers of consuming too much of it

The benefits of green tea and the dangers of consuming too much of it

Green tea helps support cognition and maintain moderate weight, as it is described as one of the healthiest drinks on the planet, as it has many health benefits, according to what was stated in the context of a report published by the “Healthline” website, and among those benefits are the following:

1. Rich in antioxidant plant compounds
Green tea contains a type of polyphenol called catechin, which is an antioxidant that helps prevent cell damage in addition to other health benefits.

2. Beneficial for brain functions
A 2017 research paper found that drinking green tea can benefit cognition, mood, and brain function, possibly due to compounds in green tea such as caffeine and L-theanine.

A study conducted in 2020 indicated that green tea is associated with a 64% lower chance of developing cognitive impairment in middle-aged and older adults.

3. It enhances the fat burning process
The results of a scientific review conducted in 2022 revealed that the ability of green tea to positively influence the metabolism process is enhanced through aerobic exercise or resistance exercises, while a report issued by the American Office of Dietary Supplements of the National Institutes of Health in the United States indicates that while some Studies have shown that green tea can improve how the body breaks down fat, but its overall effect on weight loss is likely to be small.

4. Protects the brain from aging
Results of a 2020 study showed that green tea is associated with lower levels of certain markers associated with Alzheimer's disease in people with no currently known cognitive problems, but there is no clinical evidence on how green tea affects the human brain.

5. It improves oral health
Consuming green tea, or green tea extract, can help improve oral health. However, it should be borne in mind that most of the research on this topic is still under study.

6. Controls blood sugar
A 2020 scientific review found that green tea can help reduce fasting blood sugar in the short term but does not appear to have an effect on blood sugar or insulin in the long term.

7. Prevents heart disease
A recent scientific review suggests that drinking green tea regularly can reduce several heart disease risk factors, such as blood pressure or lipids. But there is still a lack of consistent, long-term evidence in human clinical trials capable of showing cause and effect.

8. Helps lose weight
Several studies show that green tea can help with weight loss, as the results of a 2022 study revealed that drinking four or more cups of green tea daily was associated with a 44% lower chance of developing abdominal obesity, but the effect was only significant for women. .

Side effects of too much green tea

As we mentioned, despite its countless benefits, the active ingredients in green tea, which are caffeine and antioxidants, may cause some problems.

For some people, caffeine can cause headaches, stomach problems, or even interfere with their sleep. Catechins can reduce the absorption of iron from foods and supplements. According to what was published by the “Times of India” newspaper, excessive consumption of green tea can lead to suffering from the following side effects:

1. Stomach pain
According to experts, consuming too much green tea can cause stomach irritation, especially when consumed on an empty stomach.

2. Headache
People who suffer from migraines should avoid excessive consumption of green tea, as it may cause headaches.

3. Insomnia
Although it contains a very small amount of caffeine, excessive intake may lead to poor sleep, which can further worsen other health problems.

4. It causes iron deficiency
According to studies, green tea contains antioxidants that impede the absorption of iron in the body and may lead to iron deficiency. Experts advise adding lemon juice to green tea, because the vitamin C content in lemon helps enhance iron absorption.

5. Vomiting
Among the negative side effects of consuming too much green tea is that it can cause nausea and vomiting due to its L-theanine content.

6. Vertigo and dizziness
The caffeine in green tea reduces blood flow to the brain, causing dizziness.

7. Liver damage
Excessive consumption of green tea causes a buildup of caffeine, which can stress and damage the liver.

8. Osteoporosis
Some compounds in green tea inhibit calcium absorption, leading to weak bones, which can increase the risk of bone diseases such as osteoporosis.

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