Green Tea: What Are Its Advantages And Disadvantages?
By DR. SEEMA NANDA.

Today while sipping on my morning cup of green tea, I was thinking of numerous health benefits that this hot green miraculous drink offers. Green tea is quite well known for its anti-inflammatory, anti-carcinogenic and anti-oxidant properties. Of course it is the healthiest beverage but problem arises when people overindulge and drink multiple cups of green tea a day in order to reap its benefits. They tend to forget that sometimes “too much of a good thing is bad for health”. So today’s post is all about it’s pros and cons.
Although researches have not shown yet – how much is too much? It’s just that you need to be cautious of certain conditions when it’s overconsumption is health hazard for you. I will discuss that but firstly I would like to divert your attention on number of health benefits that it provides as its advantages far outweighs its disadvantages.

ADVANTAGES OF GREEN TEA
FOR SKIN
Anti-oxidants are highly beneficial for our skin and green tea contains many. It has polyphenols like flavonoids, a powerful anti-oxidants. It can reduce the formation of free radicals (known to play a role in aging and causing all sorts of diseases) in the body.
You can either use it externally or drink it. In every way it makes your skin wrinkle free and radiant. If you are heading towards the beach then pack a packet of green tea alongwith your sunglasses and sunscreen as catechins present in it can actually make the skin more resistant to the effects of UV rays and prevent sunburn. We can say, it’s one of the best anti-aging product.
FOR WEIGHT LOSS
It is one of the best fat fighter. Studies have shown that drinking 4-5 cups of green tea a day increases the fat oxidation by 17%, indicating that it helps in losing weight. It helps in suppressing the appetite as it gives the feeling of fullness and inhibits the main enzymes involved in fat storage. It specifically melts the fat in the abdominal area.
EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) present in it, increases the metabolism rate, and result in increasing the rate on which our body turns food into calories and helps in weight loss. But don’t depend completely on it as you need to follow a good exercise regime too to lose weight.
FOR CANCER
Oxidative damage contribute to the development of cancer and anti-oxidants can have a protective effect. We all know that green tea is an excellent source of powerful anti-oxidants. So it’s consumption is best to reduce the risk of various cancers (breast cancer, prostate cancer, colorectal cancer, lungs cancer etc.)
FOR BRAIN
Drinking green tea on regular basis improves brain functioning and boosts memory too. Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease are the common neurodegenerative diseases in aging human. Catechins compounds in it lowers the risk of developing such diseases. In this way, it protects the brain even in old age.
Natural chemical called theanine found in it can provide calming effect, soothes and relaxes your mind.
FOR HEART
Green tea drinkers have upto 31% lower risk of cardiovascular diseases. It improves the blood flow in vessels and prevents clotting which is primary reason for heart attack.
It contains tannins which helps in reducing the bad cholesterol. Regular intake can improve the ratio of good cholesterol to bad cholesterol.
FOR DIABETES
It is beneficial beverage for diabetics. Anti-oxidants of green tea slows down the absorption of glucose in blood stream.
Recent studies suggest that green tea catechins may reduce the amount of glucose that passes through the intestine and into the bloodstream. This will benefit diabetics by preventing blood-sugar spikes when tea is taken with meals.
FOR ORAL HYGIENE
Catechins, may inhibit the growth of bacteria and some viruses. It blocks the attachment of the bacteria associated with dental caries of the teeth. It’s consumption not only maintains the dental hygiene but also reduces the bad breath.

DISADVANTAGES OF GREEN TEA
If your body is sensitive to caffeine than drink it cautiously. Although caffeine content of green tea is lower than that of its counterparts but it’s overconsumption can lead to variety of ailments like :
Heart palpitation
Convulsions
Insomnia
Loss of appetite
Nervousness
Restlessness
Irritation
If you are pregnant, planning to conceive or breastfeeding than not more than 2 cups should be taken a day or it’s better to skip it altogether as EGCG in green tea can interfere with the child’s growth, development and create some complications like premature birth, low birth weight, or in some cases fatal death.
It’s tannin content can decrease the iron and folic absorption in the body when taken in higher amounts which can lead to iron deficiency anemia. For lactating women, the caffeine in green tea can pass into breast milk and affect the nursing infant.
Deficiency of calcium leads to osteoporosis. Drinking too much of green tea can increase the amount of calcium that is flushed out in the urine. It actually prohibits the calcium absorption in the bones and leads to the osteoporosis.
Tannins present in green tea increases stomach acid which may cause stomach ache and constipation. People with peptic ulcer or acid reflux should avoid drinking green tea on an empty stomach. It is always advisable to have it after a meal or in between meals.
Kidney stones are made of calcium combined with phosphate or oxalic acid. Green tea, being rich in oxalic acid damages kidney. Green tea extract supplements have been linked to several cases of Liver damage also.
It interacts with certain medications and leads to certain problems. So always consult your healthcare professional if it is safe to consume it along with your medicines.
Young children should avoid drinking this as it may not be suitable for their body or may interfere with growth hormones.

EXPERT ADVICE
Always try to choose high quality brand of green tea because some of the lower quality brands contain excessive levels of fluorides which is not good for health.
Dosage depends on the requirement or condition for which you are taking it. 3-4 cups a day are recommended to reap the health benefits. More than 6-7 cups of green tea a day – is possibly unsafe.
How many cups do you drink?

tags: #greentea #green_tea #pros #cons #weightloss #natural_beverage #beverage
#alternate_tea #cancer #health #egcg 
source: https://www.befitandfine.com/advantages-disadvantages-green-tea

By Rachael Link, MS, RD

Popping up everywhere from juice bars to health food stores, wheatgrass is the latest ingredient to enter the limelight in the world of natural health.
Wheatgrass is prepared from the freshly sprouted leaves of the common wheat plant, Triticum aestivum.
It can be grown and prepared at home or purchased in juice, powder or supplement form.
Some claim it can do everything from detoxifying the liver to improving immune function. However, many of its purported benefits have not yet been proven or studied.
This article takes a closer look at 7 of the evidence-based benefits of drinking wheatgrass.
1. High in Nutrients and Antioxidants
Wheatgrass is an excellent source of many different vitamins and minerals. It is especially high in vitamins A, C and E, as well as iron, magnesium, calcium and amino acids. Of its 17 amino acids, eight are considered essential, meaning your body cannot produce them and you must obtain them from food sources.
Like all green plants, wheatgrass also consists of chlorophyll, a type of green plant pigment associated with many health benefits. It also contains several important antioxidants, including glutathione and vitamins C and E .
Antioxidants are compounds that fight free radicals to prevent cell damage and reduce oxidative stress.
Some studies have found that antioxidants may help protect against certain conditions, such as heart disease, cancer, arthritis and neurodegenerative diseases .
In one study, wheatgrass decreased oxidative stress and improved cholesterol levels in rabbits fed a high-fat diet.
Additionally, supplementing with wheatgrass increased levels of the antioxidants glutathione and vitamin C .
Another test-tube study that evaluated the antioxidant activity of wheatgrass found it reduced oxidative damage to cells .
Given that the research on wheatgrass is limited to test-tube and animal studies, more studies are needed to determine how its antioxidants may affect humans.
SUMMARY
Wheatgrass is high in chlorophyll and many vitamins, minerals and amino acids. Test-tube and animal studies have found that its antioxidant content may prevent oxidative stress and cell damage.
2. May Reduce Cholesterol
Cholesterol is a waxy substance found throughout the body. While you need some cholesterol to make hormones and produce bile, too much cholesterol in your blood can block blood flow and increase your risk of heart disease.
Several animal studies have found that wheatgrass may help lower cholesterol levels.
In one study, rats with high cholesterol were given wheatgrass juice. They experienced decreased levels of total cholesterol, “bad” LDL cholesterol and triglycerides.
Interestingly, the effects of wheatgrass were similar to those of atorvastatin, a prescription drug commonly used to treat high blood cholesterol .
Another study looked at its effects in rabbits fed a high-fat diet. After 10 weeks, supplementing with wheatgrass helped lower total cholesterol and increase “good” HDL cholesterol, compared to a control group .
Despite these promising results, further studies are needed to determine how wheatgrass supplements may affect cholesterol levels in humans.
SUMMARY
Some animal studies have found that wheatgrass may help lower blood cholesterol levels, but human studies are needed.
3. Could Help Kill Cancer Cells
Thanks to its high antioxidant content, some test-tube studies have found that wheatgrass may help kill cancer cells.
According to one test-tube study, wheatgrass extract decreased the spread of mouth cancer cells by 41% .
In another test-tube study, wheatgrass induced cell death and reduced the number of leukemia cells by up to 65% within three days of treatment .
Some research indicates that wheatgrass juice may also help, when combined with traditional cancer treatment, minimize adverse effects.
One study found that wheatgrass juice decreased the risk of impaired bone marrow function, a common complication of chemotherapy, in 60 people with breast cancer.
However, there is still no evidence on the potential anti-cancer effects of wheatgrass in humans. More studies are needed to understand how it may impact cancer development in people.
SUMMARY
Test-tube studies show that wheatgrass may help kill cancer cells and reduce cancer development. Also, one human study found that it may reduce complications of chemotherapy.
4. May Aid in Blood Sugar Regulation
High blood sugar can cause a wide array of symptoms, including headaches, thirst, frequent urination and fatigue.
Over time, high blood sugar can have serious consequences like nerve damage, skin infections and vision problems.
Some animal studies have found that wheatgrass may help keep blood sugar levels under control.
In one study, giving wheatgrass to diabetic rats modified levels of certain enzymes that help lower blood sugar levels .
Another study found that treating diabetic rats with wheatgrass extract for 30 days resulted in significantly decreased blood sugar levels 
Research on wheatgrass’ effects on blood sugar is limited to animals. More studies are needed to understand how it may affect blood sugar in humans.
SUMMARY
Some animal studies have found that wheatgrass may help decrease blood sugar levels, though more human studies are needed.
5. May Alleviate Inflammation
Inflammation is a normal response triggered by the immune system to protect the body against injury and infection.
However, chronic inflammation is believed to contribute to conditions like cancer, heart disease and autoimmune disorders .
Some research shows that wheatgrass and its components may help reduce inflammation.
One small study in 23 people looked at the effects of wheatgrass juice on ulcerative colitis, a disease characterized by inflammation in the large intestine.
Drinking just under 1/2 cup (100 ml) of wheatgrass juice for one month reduced disease severity and rectal bleeding in patients with ulcerative colitis .
Wheatgrass is also rich in chlorophyll, a plant pigment with powerful anti-inflammatory properties. One test-tube study showed that chlorophyll inhibited the activity of a specific protein that triggers inflammation .
Furthermore, another test-tube study found that the compounds in chlorophyll reduced inflammation in cells extracted from the arteries .
Most research is focused on certain compounds in wheatgrass or the effects of wheatgrass on a particular condition. More studies are needed to measure its potential anti-inflammatory effects on the general population.
SUMMARY
One study found that wheatgrass may help treat ulcerative colitis, an inflammatory bowel disease. Additionally, test-tube studies have found that chlorophyll, a compound found in wheatgrass, may also decrease inflammation.
6. Could Help Promote Weight Loss
Many people have started adding wheatgrass juice to their diet as a quick and convenient way to boost weight loss.
Wheatgrass contains thylakoids, which are tiny compartments found in plants that contain chlorophyll and absorb sunlight for photosynthesis.
While there is no evidence that wheatgrass itself could increase weight loss, several studies have found that supplementing with thylakoids could enhance satiety and increase weight loss.
In one small study, supplementing a high-carb meal with thylakoids intensified feelings of satiety, compared to a placebo .
Similarly, a study in rats showed that supplementing with thylakoids increased satiety by slowing down the emptying of the stomach and increasing the release of hormones that decrease hunger .
Another study found that giving thylakoids to rats on a high-fat diet resulted in decreased food intake and body weight, compared to a control group .
However, keep in mind that thylakoids can also be found in many other food sources, including green vegetables and leafy greens like spinach, kale and lettuce.
What’s more, these studies used concentrations of thylakoids that were much greater than the concentrations typically found in wheatgrass.
There is also no research on the effects of wheatgrass on weight loss specifically. Further studies are needed to look at its effects on weight loss in humans.
SUMMARY
Human and animal studies have found that the thylakoids in wheatgrass and other green vegetables may increase satiety and weight loss.
7. Easy to Add to Your Diet
Wheatgrass is widely available in powder, juice and capsule form and can easily be found at health food shops and specialty grocery stores.
Furthermore, if you are able to grow wheatgrass at home, you can use a juicer to make your own wheatgrass juice.
Besides drinking wheatgrass juice, you can use the juice or powder to boost the nutritional content of your favorite green smoothies.
You can also mix wheatgrass juice into salad dressings, teas or other beverages.
SUMMARY
Wheatgrass is available as a juice, powder or supplement and can be consumed in a variety of ways. It’s quite easy to add to your diet.
Precautions and Side Effects
Wheatgrass is generally considered safe for those with celiac disease or a sensitivity to gluten. This is because only the seeds of the wheat kernel contain gluten — not the grass.
However, if you do have a sensitivity to gluten, it’s best to consult your doctor before consuming wheatgrass or stick to products that are certified gluten-free.
Wheatgrass is also very susceptible to mold if you’re growing it at home. If it has a bitter taste or shows signs of spoilage, err on the side of caution and discard it.
Finally, some people report symptoms like nausea, headaches or diarrhea after consuming wheatgrass in juice or supplement form. If you experience these or any other adverse effects, it’s best to decrease your intake.
If negative symptoms persist, consider talking to a healthcare practitioner or eliminating wheatgrass from your diet altogether.
SUMMARY
Wheatgrass is considered gluten-free, but special precautions should be taken if you have a gluten sensitivity. It’s also susceptible to mold growth and may cause negative symptoms in some people.
The Bottom Line
Wheatgrass and its components have been associated with many health benefits, including weight loss, decreased inflammation, lower cholesterol and better blood sugar control.
However, research on its effects in humans is lacking, and many studies are focused solely on its specific compounds.
Although more studies are needed to confirm the benefits of wheatgrass, drinking it as part of a well-balanced diet could help provide some extra nutrients and several health benefits.
tags: #wheatgrass #benefits_of_wheatgrass #naturalsupplement #alternate_food
#health_benefits #nature #natural #trending ​
source: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/wheatgrass-benefits