Maybe it’s time to say goodbye to your usual pack of detox teas and incorporate different types of green tea into your daily regimen. From Japanese concoctions to Chinese blends, many exotic varieties of green tea boast numerous health benefits. While Matcha tea helps reduce stress, Japanese Sencha contains fluoride which can help keep your teeth healthy. Other variations may also aid weight loss, promote better heart health, and regulate blood pressure. However, there are specific ways to ensure your cup of tea is healthy. Here’s how to choose the right drink and prepare it the right way.

What is green tea?

Green tea is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. It undergoes brief processing, allowing it to retain many natural antioxidants and health-promoting compounds. “As it does not oxidize like black tea, it is particularly rich in polyphenols and catechins,” explains the dietitian. Veena V. These properties make it popular for boosting metabolism, managing weight, and providing an energy boost that doesn’t have the intensity of coffee. There are many types of green tea, made from different plants.

Read also: What are the health benefits of green tea? Know its advantages and disadvantages

What are the types of green tea?

There are several types of green tea and each type has its own flavor and health benefits.

1. Matcha green tea

Matcha tea is one of the best types of green tea that you must try! It is a powdered tea that is mixed with water and has the most antioxidants among other varieties. All you need to make this is matcha powder and hot water. A few drops of water should be added to the matcha to make a paste before adding it to avoid lumps. This type of green tea has many benefits. A study published in the journal Current research in food scienceclaims that matcha reduces stress. It also helps improve attention and memory.

2. Sencha green tea

This type of green tea comes from Japan and is popular because of its fresh, green flavor. The Sencha plant contains fluoride and consuming it can help improve the health of your teeth and prevent cavities. You can drink one cup a day. A study published in the journal Biomoleculesclaims that Sencha tea may also reduce the risk of cancer through its chemopreventive properties.

3. Gyokuro Green Tea

It contains caffeine and therefore can give you more energy. It is the exclusive tea of ​​the Katahira family. It is high in theanine and also has a very creamy taste. It is one of the best teas in Japan. What sets tea apart is how the leaf is grown and processed after it is picked. The extra labor involved in growing and harvesting it makes this tea an expensive option. A study published in the journal Drinksindicates that additional processes are being carried out to improve the quality and commercial value of tea.

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4. Hojicha green tea

This variety has a toasted taste and since it is made from roasted leaves, the caffeine content is also less, making it a healthy option. This variety is also rich in antioxidants that can help fight aging. It also helps protect the body from sun damage. It can also lower cholesterol levels in your body and reduce blood pressure. A study, published in Scientific reportsalso states that hojicha has been shown to enhance feelings of refreshment and motivation.

5. Longjing Green Tea (Dragon Well)

This is a renowned Chinese green tea that offers a host of health benefits. Longjing is full of antioxidants, especially catechins, which help protect cells from free radical damage. They also improve cognitive functions, including memory, attention and reaction time. Regular consumption of Longjing tea may also help reduce the risk of heart disease. The vitamins and minerals found in Longjing tea can help strengthen the immune system, making it better equipped to fight infections.

6. Jasmine Green Tea

It is also rich in catechins, which are powerful antioxidants that fight oxidative stress and protect cells from damage. It may also help reduce inflammation and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Regular consumption of jasmine tea can help reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) and reduce the risk of heart disease. The caffeine in jasmine tea can help boost metabolism, which can help you lose weight.

7. Moroccan mint tea

This is a popular North African tea made with green tea, fresh mint leaves and sugar. The menthol in mint tea can help soothe an upset stomach, reduce bloating, and improve overall digestion. It can also strengthen your immune system, helping you fight off infections. The combination of caffeine and L-theanine in green tea may improve concentration and reduce stress, promoting better mental clarity and relaxation.

What type of green tea is healthiest?

The healthiest is matcha tea, which is made from powdered green tea leaves and contains high amounts of healthy compounds. The main constituents of matcha tea are polyphenolic compounds which are responsible for many of its health benefits. “It contains antioxidants such as catechins like EGCG (epigallocatechin-3-gallate) which help support metabolism, reduce inflammation and improve heart health,” says Veena. When this tea is combined with foods rich in vitamin C, such as lemon juice, it can improve the absorption of catechins. The properties of EGCG may provide some health benefits, such as helping reduce high blood pressure and promoting weight loss). This combination may be particularly effective for those looking to improve their immunity and antioxidant intake.

What type of green tea is best for weight loss?

Due to their high levels of catechins, particularly EGCG, which help increase metabolism, sencha and matcha have been shown to be effective for weight loss. Since these teas contain mild caffeine, they can help increase fat burning during exercise, making them popular with people looking for natural weight management. While drinking herbal teas for weight loss can help you, it cannot be your only solution. You need to make other lifestyle changes to control your weight.

How to ensure that your green tea preparation is healthy?

Although there are different types of green tea, to get the most health benefits from it, you need to prepare each of them the right way. Here are a few things to keep in mind when preparing it:

• Avoid steeping green tea in boiling water, as this can destroy the delicate antioxidants.
• Use water around 160-180°F (70-80°C) and steep for 2-3 minutes.
• Avoid sugar or artificial sweeteners.
• Adding a few drops of lemon can improve antioxidant absorption and add natural flavor.

What are the side effects of drinking green tea?

No matter what type of green tea you choose, it is generally considered safe. However, excessive consumption can lead to side effects like insomnia, nervousness or stomach upset due to its caffeine content, the expert recommends. Excessive use can also affect iron absorption. These people should refrain from drinking green tea on an empty stomach and should also keep their coffee consumption to a minimum at the end of the day.

How much green tea can you consume per day?

Most people can reasonably have up to two or three cups of green tea per day, as this amount is likely to be the amount of antioxidants that contains enough beneficial properties without causing adverse effects. People who have increased sensitivity to caffeine may want to decrease their intake or switch to lower-caffeine types like Hojicha, especially in the afternoon or evening.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I add milk or sugar to green tea?

Although adding milk and sugar may enhance the taste, it may diminish some health benefits. It is recommended to drink green tea plain or with a natural sweetener like honey.

2. Can I drink green tea on an empty stomach?

All of these types of green tea are considered safe to drink on an empty stomach. However, if you are sensitive to caffeine, it might be best to take it after a meal.

3. Is green tea safe for pregnant women?

Although moderate consumption of green tea is generally safe for pregnant women, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before increasing your consumption. Excessive caffeine consumption can have potential side effects.