Green tea and its benefits
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An interesting fact which is not commonly known is that all teas come from the same plant known as Camellia Sinensis. The way a tea is processed makes it green or black.
Caffeine content is in different proportion in both the teas. Green tea is low in caffeine, so if you want to feel fresh and energetic in the morning then choose black over green. Where as during the day if you want to relax over a cup of health drink then green tea is perfect. Remember if you add milk to any of the teas, then the effect is not the same. Milk reduces the effect of caffeine to a great extent.
When it comes to antioxidants then both the teas are winners. This quality helps in preventing cancer, though green tea is still higher in antioxidants. The absorption of antioxidant is affected by the milk present in it. EGCG is a type of flavonoid present in green tea which regulates the gene activity in cancer cells and can even halt the growth of cancer cells.
The fluoride content of these teas is good for the bone and teeth health. Black tea if made with tap water gives high fluoride. Again here if milk is added the fluoride value weakens.
This drink is heart friendly as the ECGC content creates a lining along the blood vessel to reduce the stress. Black tea improves the working of blood vessels making the cardiovascular system work more smoothly. Both the teas are helpful in reducing the bad cholesterol from the blood, though milk tea does not support the same.
So enjoy the tea that suits your personally.
Green tea not more than 6 cups and black tea not more than 3 cups. To enjoy the full health benefits, add to them a dash of cinnamon and ginger.
Brewing the tea correctly requires 2 gram of tea per 100 ml of water or 1 teaspoonful of tea leaves per 150 ml water. Brewing the tea too hot and too long will result in bitter taste due to the release of extensive amounts of tannins.
One can keep adding water to green tea leaves
until the flavour degrades.
One cup of green tea contains just one calorie
with a caffeine content of `12 mg.
Enjoy this health drink by adding honey and lemon
for a refreshing flavour.