- May 20, 2014
- Amar Jha
- 0 comments
According to a report by Global Industry Analysts, Inc., the Global Market for Green Tea is projected to exceed 1.2 Million Tons by 2015. The major green tea consuming countries are China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Middle East, and Japan. It is being monitored that the popularity of green tea as a fitness beverage is spreading worldwide and many black tea consumers are actively switching to green tea due to its potential benefits.
The question that now arises is what makes green tea so very special? To understand the importance of green tea it is imperative to peep into its origin. All varieties of tea originate from the same plant; camellia sinensis. It is the difference in oxidation levels that decide the tea type. Black tea is fully fermented which creates the robust flavour and rich colour. The high level of oxidation however reduces its antioxidant. Green tea on the other hand is steamed and undergoes minimal amount of oxidation which helps to retain most of the vital antioxidants. The booster dose of antioxidants is the benefit that we reap from Green Tea.
Green tea is considered as a health-promoting beverage. It possesses a very potent antioxidant called Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG). Intervention studies have demonstrated the usefulness of EGCG for maintaining metabolic and cardiovascular health. According to Japanese research, green tea reduces the levels of LDL or “bad” cholesterol. Polyphenols and catechins prevent cell damage, boosts metabolism, reduces the risk of cancer, stabilizes blood sugar level, prevents aging, and even improves brain health.
Black tea also has antioxidants but as it is lowered by oxidation; the health benefits you can garner is lesser than green tea. A few cups of green tea everyday can enrich your health in innumerable ways.