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So-called "detox" diets often resort to green tea to cleanse and strengthen the body. However, doctors tend to think of green tea as a healthy drink that is high in polyphenols and tannins. In addition, frequent consumption of green tea carries a number of side effects.
Benefits of green tea
Green tea contains powerful compounds such as epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), an antioxidant that helps fight chronic disease.
Research shows that EGCG helps block the growth of liver, lung, and prostate cancer cells. EGCG also lowers blood sugar. A study found that drinking about three 3 cups (237 ml) of green tea a day can reduce the risk of diabetes by about 16 percent.
"In addition, EGCG may reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. Data from a review of nine studies showed that people who consumed one cup of green tea per day had a lower risk of heart disease and stroke."
Too bad about the green tea
Caffeine
A serving of green tea contains at least 35 mg of caffeine. Although less than other caffeinated beverages (such as coffee), consuming three to six cups of green tea per day significantly increases caffeine intake by 210 mg. Caffeine is a stimulant that can cause side effects such as restlessness, digestive problems, and sleep disturbances, especially if you drink a lot of green tea.
Problems with the assimilation of some nutrients
Polyphenols in green tea and tannins can bind to trace elements and block their absorption in the body. Evidence suggests that green tea may reduce iron absorption and cause iron deficiency in some people.
