When your chai turns green

The Chinese version of tea helps you lose weight and prevent heart disease, says Pooja Makhija

It’s better to be deprived of food for three days, than tea for one,” says a Chinese proverb. This is why the Chinese have been drinking green tea for centuries — for all the positive benefits it brings to our health. Today, scientific research is providing evidence for benefits associated with drinking green tea. For example, in 1994 the Journal of the National Cancer Institute published the results of a study indicating that drinking green tea reduces the risk of esophageal cancer in Chinese men and women by nearly 60 per cent. There is also research indicating that green tea lowers total cholesterol levels, and improves the ratio of good (HDL) cholesterol to bad (LDL) cholesterol.

Why green tea is good
The secret of green tea lies in the fact it is rich in polyphenols, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). EGCG is a powerful anti-oxidant: Besides inhibiting the growth of cancer cells, it kills cancer cells without harming healthy tissue. It is at least 100 times more effective than vitamin C and 25 times more effective than vitamin E at protecting cells.

Clinical tests have shown that polyphenols also destroy free radicals and have far-reaching positive effects on the body. Free radicals can damage the body at the cellular level leaving you susceptible to cancer, heart disease, and many other degenerative diseases.

Other health benefits
Prevents tooth decay Tea contains fluoride and other minerals. It is a good cavity fighter and helps maintain hard teeth. Polyphenols also exhibit anti-plaque properties that fight bacteria in the mouth. Children can drink one cup of green tea a day to help reduce cavities. Rinsing with green tea after meals is cleansing and refreshing.

Effect on HIV Studies indicate that polyphenols help boost your immune system, therefore helping prevent HIV.

Green tea and weight loss Yes, it actually helps lose those kilos. A cup of tea with each meal is actually protocol for using tea successfully as a metabolic stimulant. Tea by itself carries only 4 calories per serving, and it’s healthiest when consumed with no additives. Caffeine in tea increases body function to help burn more calories and polyphenols aid in digestion of fat.

Brewing the perfect cup
It is very important that your cup of tea is made with care; otherwise the polyphenols which provide so many health benefits can actually ruin the flavour of the tea. It is particularly important not to over-brew the cup — you’ll know what a sour mood is all about if that happens.
- Use one tea bag or one tsp of the green tea per cup.
- Bring water to a boil and turn off the heat.
- Add the tea bag or tea leaves and let it stand for around 3 minutes.
- Pour it into cup and enjoy this light and refreshing drink. 

Why green tea works
Green, oolong, and black teas come from the leaves of the same plant. What sets green tea apart is the way it is processed.  Green tea leaves are steamed, which prevents the EGCG compound from being oxidised. In contrast, black and oolong tea leaves are made from fermented leaves, which results in the EGCG being converted into other compounds that are not nearly as effective in preventing and fighting various diseases

Pooja Makhija is a consultant dietitian
healthline@dnaindia.net