Green tea offers significant benefits for heart health, including improved blood pressure and cholesterol levels. For healthy individuals, normal blood pressure is below 120/80 mmHg, while readings of 140/90 mmHg or higher indicate hypertension. Prolonged high blood pressure increases the risk of stroke, heart disease, and kidney disease. While individuals with high blood pressure should adjust their lifestyle and follow medical advice, incorporating daily green tea consumption can contribute to better heart health and blood pressure management.

Many of green tea's cardiovascular benefits stem from antioxidants called catechins. These compounds help blood vessels remain flexible and open, promoting relaxation and subsequently reducing blood pressure.

Beyond immediate relaxation of blood vessels, green tea also provides long-term protection for arteries. Its polyphenols act as antioxidants, safeguarding arteries from oxidative stress and mild inflammation. These two factors are known to cause gradual damage, which can silently contribute to increased blood pressure as people age.

The catechins in green tea are also effective in reducing low-density lipoprotein, or "bad" cholesterol. They inhibit cholesterol production and absorption, which enhances cardiovascular health and lowers the risk of atherosclerosis and stroke. Individuals who regularly consume three to five cups of green tea daily may better manage their blood lipid levels, especially when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise.

Beyond its benefits for the heart, green tea contains potent antioxidants that help cells resist damage. This can potentially prevent neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. The beverage also helps lower blood sugar and improves insulin sensitivity, making it beneficial for individuals at risk of or living with type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, green tea's antibacterial properties can reduce bad breath, lessen acne, and boost immunity.

Most people can safely consume three to four cups of green tea daily. However, caffeine can negatively affect pregnant and nursing women, children, and individuals with anxiety, irregular heartbeats, seizures, insomnia, or irritable bowel syndrome. Pregnant or nursing women should limit their total caffeine intake to under 200 mg per day (approximately two cups of green tea) or follow their doctor's advice to protect their health. Additionally, green tea may reduce the effectiveness of certain blood pressure medications.

By Le Nguyen (According to Eating Well)