Many people associate green tea with wellness, but researchers have also examined its impact on cardiovascular health.
Several international studies show that green tea contains antioxidants that may help the body protect blood vessels.
According to research published in Nutrition, Metabolism & Cardiovascular Diseases, people who drank green tea regularly had a lower risk of heart disease than those who did not drink it.
Compounds known as catechins and EGCG are believed to be among the main reasons. They have been linked to reduced inflammation and improved blood circulation.
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May affect blood pressure and cholesterol
Researchers have also investigated how green tea affects cholesterol levels and blood pressure in a study published in Medicine.
Several analyses suggest that the tea may help lower harmful LDL cholesterol while also supporting healthy blood vessels.
A study published in Nutrition Journal also found modest improvements in overall lipid profiles among people who consumed green tea over a longer period.
Research published in Nutrition Research further indicates that green tea may have a positive effect on gut health, which could play a role in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
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Several cups may make a difference
Green tea cannot replace a healthy diet or exercise, researchers emphasize.
However, the study published in Nutrition, Metabolism & Cardiovascular Diseases suggests that drinking two to four cups daily may be associated with a lower risk of heart disease.
The same study, which included nearly 800,000 participants, found that people who drank around three cups of green tea per day had up to a 15 percent lower risk of heart disease.
Sources: EatingWell, Nutrition, Metabolism & Cardiovascular Diseases, Medicine, Nutrition Journal, and Nutrition Research.
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