1. High in protective plant compounds called polyphenols

Compounds called polyphenols are known to protect the body against disease and make an important contribution towards a healthy, balanced diet. These antioxidant compounds are found in a wide range of fruit, vegetables and other unprocessed foods.

Green tea has numerous health benefits many of which are attributed to the fact that it is largely unprocessed and rich in these plant compounds. The main bioactive compounds in green tea are flavonoids, with the most potent being catechins and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG).

2. May support focus and attention

Green tea contains a number of natural stimulants, including caffeine, which although not at the same levels as that found in coffee, may still help maintain alertness and focus.

3. May promote calm

Green tea is a source of the amino acid L-theanine, which has a relaxing effect; it does this by increasing mood-enhancing brain chemicals including GABA, dopamine and serotonin.

4. May protect the brain

The beneficial polyphenols of green tea may help slow the damaging effects of aging on the brain.

5. May boost metabolism

Research suggests that green tea may exert a small weight loss in overweight or obese people. This is thought to be thanks to the natural thermogenic properties provided by caffeine, and by the plant compounds such as catechins.

6. May support blood sugar control

Studies suggest green tea may improve insulin sensitivity and as a result have a beneficial effect on blood sugar management.

7. May reduce diabetes risk

Tea polyphenols have the ability to inhibit digestive enzymes like lactase and delay the uptake of glucose (sugar) in the gut, this has led some studies to conclude that a consistent intake (over a lifetime) of polyphenols from the likes of green tea may be as effective as some medication in reducing the risk of diabetes; however, more studies are needed.

8. May reduce the risk of heart disease

Research suggests green tea is a useful beverage for helping to reduce the risk of heart disease and associated conditions, such as stroke. One way it may help is in its beneficial effects on cholesterol management.

9. May support bone health

Green tea may help maintain bone density and as a result reduce the risk of fracture. The protective effect is thought to be thanks to the tea’s polyphenol content.

10. May improve gut health

Plant compounds like polyphenols, including those from tea, pass unabsorbed to the large intestine where they are broken down by gut bacteria. In this way they provide a source of fuel for the beneficial bacteria that reside in this part of the gut, allowing them to thrive and diversify and helping to improve gut function and modify the immune system.