Benefits of Green Tea Tea is one of the most popular beverages in the world, with some reports stating that tea is second only to water in worldwide beverage consumption. Tea is embedded in culture: the British have tea time, and Asian communities still practice ancient tea ceremonies. There are several health benefits of green tea in particular, due largely to the way it is processed. Unlike black and oolong tea leaves, which are fermented, green tea leaves are steamed, leaving a higher concentration of antioxidants, called polyphenols. These antioxidants are why green tea is widely promoted for its health benefits. Studies have indicated several benefits to green tea. One of the benefits is drinking green tea can help prevent heart disease. Research has shown that the antioxidants in green tea help block the oxidation of “bad” cholesterol (LDL) and increase the “good” (HDL) cholesterol, which helps improve artery function and stave off heart disease. Next, green tea assists in weight loss. Some small studies have shown that drinking green tea has helped with moderate weight loss, possibly because of the diuretic properties of green tea and those powerful antioxidants. In the other hand, the antioxidants in green tea can help protect against certain types of cancer. It can reduce the risk of esophageal cancer, but it is also widely thought to kill cancer cells in general without damaging the healthy tissue around them. Ultimately, green tea prevents diabetes. Green tea apparently helps regulate glucose levels slowing the rise of blood sugar after eating. This can prevent high insulin spikes and resulting fat storage. Not to mention that green tea, if not wonderfully tasty, is at least pleasant and palatable. It is readily available in supermarkets and Asian markets. So there’s not much of an excuse to not start