People have been consuming and enjoying green tea for ages. Modern-day studies further highlight the health benefits of drinking green tea. It comes from unoxidized leaves and does not involve much processing.
Green tea is one of the least processed tea types. It is what makes green tea contain polyphenols and antioxidants, which are healthy for the body. This article takes a look at the six reasons why seniors should consume green tea.
Health Benefits of Green Tea
You might wonder, is tea good for old age? Here are six reasons why green tea is the best tea for the elderly.
Fights diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is becoming a growing concern worldwide as it’s gripping more and more people. The condition leads to increased blood sugar levels and inhibits the ability of the body to produce insulin.
According to a Harvard study, green tea is rich in polyphenols that help keep diabetes at bay. The diabetes risk gets reduced as polyphenols regulate blood sugar levels and metabolize glucose.
A Japanese study has shown that people who drank green tea had 42% lesser chances of developing type 2 diabetes.
Improves functioning of the brain
Green tea improves cognitive abilities, memory, and the ability to concentrate on tasks. It contains amino acid L-theanine that helps fight off anxiety-related issues. Elderly adults who drink green tea usually experience more energy and productivity when compared to coffee. You can consume warm green tea whenever you are feeling low on energy.
Guards against Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s
Parkinson’s is a common degenerative disease among the elderly. When the number of dopamine-producing neurons gets reduced in the brain, it leads to Parkinson’s. Alzheimer’s is another common degenerative disease. It is one of the primary causes of dementia in individuals.
Green tea helps improve brain function on a short-term basis and protects it for the elderly. A study has shown that green tea comes with catechin compounds that have a beneficial effect on neurons. It thus helps prevent Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
Controls weight
Controlling weight can be difficult, especially for the elderly. Green tea has beneficial properties that help regulate obesity and lower body weight. It helps in decreasing the body fat near the abdominal area. Green tea also helps reduce the percentage of body fat and waist circumference.
Boosts mood and reduces stress
According to a study, older men and women who consumed around four or more cups of green tea were less likely to get depressed than those who had a lesser amount. The primary cause is the amino acid L-theanine that reduces anxiety and lifts the mood. A cup of green tea a day also stimulates dopamine that induces a better feeling.
Strengthens bones
The elderly who are looking to strengthen their bones can consume green tea. A Cambridge University study shows that women who regularly drank tea experienced higher bone mineral density than those who did not. Milk in tea also proved beneficial in having an improved bone density in the hips.
Bottom line
A large number of studies have shown the beneficial properties of green tea for the elderly. It can be an excellent staple that the elderly can add to their diet. One of the significant aspects of green tea is the antioxidants it contains.
Green tea helps promote a healthy body. However, ensure that you consume green tea in moderation, just like any other thing. You can also consult your doctor and get their opinion.
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