In China and Japan the rates of cancer are much lower than the rates in the United States. Scientists think that their high consumption of green tea may be responsible for this. Green tea has a polyphenol called epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) which scientists have linked with having cancer prevention properties. One study found that the extract of green tea slowed the growth of breast cancer cells, and decreased it's spread to other parts of the body in mouse studies. These polyphenols are thought to help create T cells in the body which enhances the immune system that inhibits the growth of tumors.
In one recent study it appears that EGCG changed pancreatic cancer cells so that they suppressed an enzyme associated with this type of cancer. This substance also appeared to inhibit breast cancer, human cervical cancer, colorectal cancer, and prostate cancer.
Green tea also has properties that protect against other health problems, like heart disease, inflammation, high blood pressure, diabetes, Alzheimer's disease and weight loss. Besides this, green tea is a very pleasant beverage to drink if it is prepared properly. Most people make their water much too hot for the tea to steep in. The ideal temperature for steeping green tea is 165-175 degrees. The ideal steeping time is 1 to 2 minutes. The decaffeinated version seems to be more effective for disease prevention than the decaffeinated though decaf is better than nothing at all.
You can experiment with green tea and try adding lemon, or pomegranate or mint for flavor. Some people have it iced, though I personally prefer it hot. Japan has the highest rate of longevity in the world. Perhaps green tea contributes to that too.
Check out my website at www.valerielull.com. Also, on Facebook under the heading Book, Ten Healthy Teas.
Valerie Lull
Author
Ten Healthy Teas
Lullval@clearwire.net
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