Green tea supplements offer a simple and convenient way to obtain some of the benefits you would get from drinking whole leaf green tea, but without the trouble of having to brew it. These supplements can either come in tablet or pill form, some of which are caffeine free. However, it is important to realize a few important things concerning these tea supplements
Drinking several cups of green tea daily is very good for you according to a lot of research. Green tea can:
help lower blood pressure and cholesterol
may decrease the risk of developing certain tumors
destroy free radicals and promote younger looking skin
help boost the immune system due to its high level of catechin antioxidants
contains natural plant polyphenols that may help aid in weight loss along with proper dieting and exercise
Now, as mentioned above, tea supplements can help you achieve this in a fast way, but there is a hidden hazard that you should be aware of.
First, realize that very low grade leaves go into making these supplements. You can forget a manufacture paying top dollar for higher quality leaves. Also, these cheap leaves are smaller and more dried making it easier to compact.
The risk is taking too many of these green tea supplements in any given period of time! They contain way more polyphenols in them when compared to a regular cup of brewed green tea...in some cases they can have up to 50 times more!
Overdosing may be easy for folks taking these supplements for weight loss, and it has been recorded that livery toxicity may occur if proper dosage if not adhered. Also, a study done at the University of Mississippi found that high quantities of green tea extract may increase the risk of tumor growth due to higher levels of the (ECG) compound. However, this compound in normal smaller doses has shown to decrease tumor cell replication.
Also, some tea supplements may contain other ingredients such as soy proteins, that when ingested in large doses can be rough on the stomach.
Always consult your doctor before consuming green tea supplements and what the proper dosage should be, and for how long!
But if you want to obtain green tea benefits in the most natural, and in my opinion, the most enjoyable way, I suggest making a tea brewed by whole fresh leaves!
There are many varieties of green tea to explore, so you are bound to find a favorite.
