Goodness Comes in Green!

            Adding green tea to my weekly routine has certainly been my favorite new health habit thus far. I prefer to have a cup or two in the morning versus later in the day, because green tea is naturally caffeinated. After trying a few different kinds, I frequently enjoy yerba mate green tea. I also like substituting this for coffee most days, because, as indicated on the box, it estimates that two bags of tea have about the same caffeine content as a cup of coffee. Gaining the caffeinated effects of coffee without yellowing my teeth? Yes, please! Furthermore, not only do teeth remain stainless, but the compounds in green tea actually protect against tooth decay, mouth cancers, and other oral diseases by inhibiting the growth and attachment of harmful bacteria (Otake 440). 

This simple addition to your diet comes with a myriad of health benefits, some of which I’ve noticed are produced fairly quickly, like heightened mood and decreased anxiety.  Dr. Carrie Ruxton, CEO of Nutrition Communications, famed dietician and expert health nutritionist, published a meta-analysis review of 23 studies that specifically analyze caffeine’s effects on mood and cognitive performance, all concluding an enhancement effect on both (16-18). In addition to caffeine, green tea contains L-theanine, an amino acid that facilitates a relaxing effect by generating alpha waves in the brain and increasing the inhibitory effect of GABA neurotransmitters (Juneja 200; Gunnar). As I mentioned earlier, these beneficial effects can be noticed immediately, because after ingestion, L-theanine is absorbed rapidly and easily crosses the blood-brain barrier, allowing a quick onset of its effects. Lastly, studies have shown that the combined affect of caffeine and L-theanine are particularly useful in enhancing one’s brain function (Gunnar).

Indulging in even one cup of green tea is an all-natural, and simplistic way to gear up your mind and energize your body, for a productive yet calm day. In my next posts we will explore some superfoods that can prolong your high spirits and energy throughout the day.

Works Cited

Gunnar, Kris. “Top 10 Evidence-Based Health Benefits of Green Tea.” Authority Nutrition. Kris Gunnar, 2 Sept. 2013. Web. 28 Apr. 2014.

Juneja, Lekh Raj, et al. "L-theanine—a unique amino acid of green tea and its relaxation effect in humans." Trends in Food Science & Technology 10.6 (1999): 199-204. Print.

Lopresti, Adrian L., Sean D. Hood, and Peter D. Drummond. “ A review of lifestyle factors that contribute to important pathways associated with major depression: Diet, sleep and exercise.” Journal of Affective Disorders 148 (2013): 12-27. Print.

Otake, S., et al. “Anticaries effects of polyphenolic compounds from Japanese green tea.” Caries Research 25.6 (1991): 438-443. Print.

Ruxton, C. H. S. “The impact of caffeine on mood, cognitive function, performance and hydration: a review of benefits and risks.” Nutrition Bulletin 33.1 (2008): 15–25. Print.