Green TeaFrom fat burning properties to potential cancer fighting ability, green tea may very well be the miracle supplement we've been searching for. For starters, green tea is loaded with the powerful antioxidant EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), which has been suspected of inhibiting the growth of cancer cells, reducing high blood pressure, boosting the immune system and lowering total cholesterol. In addition, EGCG (and other antioxidants found in green tea) destroys the primary bacteria involved in the formation of dental plaque. EGCG is twice as powerful as the “super polyphenol” resveratrol, 100 times more so than old school Vitamin C and 25 times more effective than Vitamin E. In short, this stuff is good for you, and that's just a start. Quite honestly, we are just beginning to scratch the surface of green tea's positive health promoting benefits as western cultures have only recently begun to strongly suggest its intake. Eastern countries, specifically those that comprise Asia, have been drinking green tea for centuries and it has long been known that their incidence of cancer and heart disease are exceptionally low. Just how much green tea is needed to provide a positive health benefit? Intake advice varies dramatically but in general, most experts agree that 4-5 cups of natural green tea per day should be your goal. There are also green tea supplements that come in pill form that provide healthful properties without leaving you waterlogged. Concerned about caffeine? Don't be. Green tea contains less caffeine than coffee. Eight ounces of green tea contains approximately 30-60 mg of caffeine. The same quantity of java generally weighs in at well over 100 mg. While more investigation and study is needed to officially document all of the positive claims made by green tea advocates, there is absolutely no evidence to suggest that its consistent consumption is anything but good for you. Drink up.
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