Health benefits of green tea: Drink 4 glasses daily for 4 months to reduce oxidative stress, cancer risk

Health benefits of green tea: Numerous studies have shown that green tea consumption is associated with a lower risk of various cancers, including prostate, pancreatic, breast, and stomach cancers

Green tea is known for its remarkable health benefits. From its non-fermented production to its rich polyphenol content, it is a treasure trove of antioxidants and nutrients. Drinking green tea has been linked to reduced inflammation, improved heart health, and even cancer prevention.

According to a study published in PubMed, four glasses of green tea daily for four months showed a significant reduction in urinary levels of 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine, a marker of oxidative DNA damage. This suggests a substantial decrease in oxidative stress.

Here are the other health benefits of green tea:

Natural antioxidants: Green tea is not fermented like black or Oolong tea, which preserves more of its natural antioxidants and nutrients. Black tea undergoes full fermentation, altering its chemical composition and reducing its catechin levels.

Rich in polyphenols: Green tea contains a high concentration of polyphenols, particularly flavonols and flavanols. These compounds have been linked to numerous health benefits, including reduced inflammation and improved heart health.

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory: Multiple studies have shown that green tea's polyphenols, especially epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), have significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These effects help protect cells from damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Dominant catechins: Catechins are the primary polyphenols in green tea. They neutralise free radicals and chelate metal ions in redox reactions, thereby preventing oxidative stress and cellular damage. EGCG is the most studied catechin for its potent antioxidant effects.

Anti-tumour effects: Polyphenols in green tea, such as EGCG, inhibit cancer cell proliferation and induce phase II detoxifying enzymes like superoxide dismutase, glutathione-S-transferase, and glutathione peroxidase. These enzymes play a crucial role in reducing oxidative stress and preventing tumor growth.

Proven cancer prevention: Numerous studies have shown that green tea consumption is associated with a lower risk of various cancers, including prostate, pancreatic, breast, and stomach cancers. The polyphenols in green tea help to suppress tumor growth and metastasis.

However, while green tea can support chemotherapy and preventive measures, it should not replace standard medical treatments. It can enhance the efficacy of traditional cancer therapies by reducing side effects and improving health.

Selective cell death: Research indicates that green tea polyphenols, particularly EGCG, can induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancer cells without affecting healthy cells. This selective action makes it a valuable adjunct in cancer therapy.

Enhanced chemotherapy: Green tea's polyphenols may enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy by sensitising cancer cells to treatment and reducing chemotherapy-induced toxicity. This makes green tea a beneficial complementary therapy in oncology.