Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Go Green...For A Healthy Beverage!

So what's all the fuss about green tea? The research is saying that it's a heck of a lot more than just fuss. The benefits of green tea and cancer prevention are being presented quite clearly in study after study. The hard working compounds responsible for these positive actions in the body are antioxidants called catechins. In several laboratory studies, these phytochemicals have been found to be powerful inhibitors of cancer growth through a number of different mechanisms. They act to scavenge oxidants before they form free radicals that can damage cells and they inhibit the growth of tumor cells. One study in China involving over 18,000 men found that tea drinkers were about half as likely to develop stomach or esophageal cancer as men who drank little tea, even after adjusting for smoking and other health and diet factors.

What does this mean for all of us? This is yet another marvel from the plant world that we can add to our arsenal of disease fighters. The studies found that 3 grams or about 2 cups of tea a day provided the measurable benefits. It packs a big punch and has less than a third of the caffeine of coffee. Change your allegiance to this green leaf and your body will give thanks. If you must avoid caffeine alltogether, use the following tip to do it chemically-free and easy.

- In mug, pour just enough hot water over tea leaves or bag to cover.
- Steep for about 45 seconds and discard water. This removes almost all of the caffeine!
- Re-fill mug to the top and steep until ready. Enjoy!

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