The Benefits of Green Tea

By: Aniah Lobban

10 Evidence-Based Benefits of Green Tea (healthline.com)

There have been talks of a magical elixir, one that could change your life forever…but what is it? There are many methods to prevent or treat sickness in the body, from taking medicines, staying home, or just sleeping it off. But one method has a better chance at treating illness than any of those. That method is Green Tea.

Green Tea has gained extensive popularity in the United States over the past few years. One reason why is because “Boba Tea,” an infused flavor drink with enhanced boba.

Boba are tiny balls made of starch, similar to dumplings, that rest at the bottom of Green Tea. Boba tea, which originated in Taiwan, allows drinkers to customize their drink in new ways. This type of drink has paved a way in the barista business, catering to all types of teas, smoothies and drinks.

“Boba Tea is one of my favorite types of drinks, I love the variety it offers to customize different types of teas together!”-Student, Stephen Smith

Green Tea originates from China and comes from the leaves of Camellia sinensis. Green tea is rich in polyphenols (natural compounds) which has the benefit of reducing inflammation, and fighting/reducing cancer. Green tea also has EGCG, which helps prevent damage to human cells. It is also known to be the “most powerful” compound in green tea.

Drinking green tea has been known to significantly reduce the risk of cancer. Cancer is caused by an uncontrollable growth and mutation of cells and is the world’s leading cause of death. One scientific study revealed that women who drank green tea had about 20-30% lower risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer. Not only has it been proven to minimize the chance of breast cancer but also bladder, ovarian, colorectal (bowel), esophageal (throat), lung, prostate, skin, and stomach.

“I drink Green Tea because it tastes good,” says Cape Fear sophomore Faith Harden-Drake. “When I found out the possible health benefits, it just sealed the deal for me. I plan to continue drinking it for the rest of my life!”

Green Tea could also prevent Type 2 diabetes. The number of Americans with diabetes has increased each decade, especially over the past ten years. Type 2 diabetes is now affecting about 1 in 10 Americans. When one has Type 2 diabetes, blood sugar levels are elevated which is caused by an inability to produce insulin. Studies in Japan indicate Green Tea enhances insulin sensitivity, resulting in lower levels of blood sugar. The study also said individuals who drank Green Tea had a 42% lower risk of getting Type 2 diabetes. 

To sum it all up, Green Tea is packed with polyphenol antioxidants such as EGCG, which can have various health benefits. In addition to that information, Green Tea’s antioxidants could protect you from cancer. Lastly, Green Tea narrows the chance of high blood sugar levels, giving the consumer a low rate of contracting Type 2 diabetes. In the end, Green Tea is magically delicious and beneficial.