Why Drink Green Tea?

Several studies have shown that diet greatly affects the possibility of cancer. In many kinds of vegetables and fruit were identified with a particular substance protective effects against cancer. According to experts, you can define folders that block various stages in the process of cancer. Recently, attention is focused on the poly phenols and other substances contained in tea.

Ascribes to them a prominent role in the prevention of cancer (it is interesting that 20 years ago, some of these substances believed to be carcinogenic!). Most important in this respect are called catechins. Their content in green tea is relatively high, while black tea fermentation process leads to the oxidation and destruction. For this reason, the protective potential of green tea is much higher. The content of polyphenols in tea is directly proportional to the amount of tea leaves and brewing time. In addition to polyphenols tea leaves also contain protein, 2-5% caffeine and minerals (potassium, calcium, magnesium, aluminum and fluoride).

An important mechanism of carcinogenesis is oxidative damage to DNA. Antioxidant effects of polyphenols are considered to be proven – antioxidants found in green tea are able to effectively defuse oxygen radicals, thereby reducing oxidative damage to cells. Has antioxidative effects of chlorophyll, which is contained in green tea. Green tea polyphenols glutationperoxidázy increase enzyme activity, and thereby also act as antioxidants.

The protective effect of tea is not just the antioxidant activity. Polyphenols also inhibit enzymes that activate the conversion of carcinogenic compounds procancerogens. Tea polyphenols affect the initial phase of the carcinogenic process. To prevent proliferation of malignant cells and promote the role of intercellular communication. Furthermore, blocking the enzyme urokinase, which is of considerable importance for metastasis and promote apoptosis (programmed cell death). Furthermore, it prevents the formation of new blood vessels that provide nourishment of tumors. Some authors believe that it plays a major role in cytokine TNF-alpha. And considering the importance of this cytokine in the development of many diseases (rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, multiple sclerosis) can předokládat that even in these diseases, green tea could have a positive effect.

Plead promising clinical studies, originating mainly from Japan and China in terms of reducing the incidence of some cancers – particularly the pancreas, colon, stomach, bladder, esophagus, breast and skin. According to these studies is particularly important quantity of tea drunk. For example, in one of the Japanese studies showed the effect of tea drinking, with daily consumption of more than 10 cups. The effect of polyphenols from green tea may adversely affect some ingredients. A classic example is the milk that bind to each other polyphenols, and thus prevents its absorption into the body.

In addition antikancerogenního action we should also mention briefly the results of studies on other diseases. Studies have shown the influence of tea drinking to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease associated with protection against atherosclerosis. This effect is linked again with antioxidant mechanism. Furthermore, given the reduction in the incidence of osteoporosis, antibacterial effects and improve cognitive and psychomotor skills. It seems that green tea is best chemoprotektivní substance, which has virtually no side effects. His hearty consumption can therefore only be recommended.