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Why Green Tea is Good for Heart Health

Posted on May 20th, 2010 by admin  |  No Comments »

matcha green teaGreen tea may help protect you from heart disease, according to a study published by the European Journal of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation in 2008.

The research showed that drinking a few cups of green tea every day can provide heart health benefits, such as improved blood flow and the ability to relax arteries. Compared to black tea, green tea has more flavonoids–which could explain why it has more cardiovascular benefits than black tea.

Health Benefits of Green Tea

Natural heath expert and New York Times bestselling author Dr. Joseph Mercola affirms that “high quality green tea is one of the most beneficial beverages you can consume.” He explains that natural green tea is composed of naturally occurring antioxidants called polyphenols. Compared to other tea varieties, green tea has the highest quantities of epilogallocatechin gallate (EGCG). EGCG , the main active component of polyphenols, helps prevent:

  • High blood lipid levels
  • Arteriosclerosis
  • Heart attack and stroke

EGCG also provides protection against Alzheimer’s disease and cerebral thrombus.

How to Select a High Quality Green Tea

Not all green teas are healthy, according to Dr. Mercola. Many green tea products on the market have been oxidized, and are not as potent as you would expect.

To get the highest quality of green tea, check its purity. Make sure that your green tea is not contaminated with high levels of fluoride, lead, and aluminum that can be present in low-grade green teas.

Second, check the color of the tea. An obvious indication that your tea has been oxidized is if it appears brown.

Dr. Mercola recommends that you drink tea that has a vibrant, bright green appearance, like that of Matcha Green Tea.

Matcha is said to be the least processed green tea variety because the leaves are ground into powder form. It is loaded with powerful antioxidants that shield your body against free radicals, among other benefits.

Related Links:

Green Tea Protects Against Heart Disease
Three Cups of Tea a Day Slashes Your Breast Cancer Risk

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