The Japanese, known for their high life expectancy, attribute their longevity to a diet rich in Omega-3 fish and a special beverage, readily available in the UK. Green tea, particularly matcha, has been a staple in the Japanese diet for centuries, and it may hold the key to their long and healthy lives.
Green tea, which costs just 10p per bag, is known for its high concentration of bioactive compounds, including flavan-3-ols, which have been linked to numerous health benefits. Research suggests that consuming 400-600mg of flavan-3-oils daily, equivalent to two to four cups of tea, can offer significant health advantages.
Dr. Michael Mosley, a renowned health expert, highlighted the benefits of green tea and its rich sources of flavan-3-ols, which improve blood pressure and blood flow, and may even have heart-healthy benefits. Additionally, green tea is rich in polyphenols, powerful antioxidants that can prevent or reverse cell damage caused by various factors such as ageing and environmental influences.
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Green tea has numerous health benefits, from supporting fat burning and breaking down harmful plaques in blood vessels to potentially preventing diseases like dementia. It is also abundant in catechins, antioxidants that combat cellular damage and lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and certain cancers.
The tradition of drinking green tea is deeply rooted in Japanese society, and it is associated with emotional and mental health benefits. Tea ceremonies, serving as a form of meditation and social interaction, are believed to enhance emotional well-being and strengthen community ties.
In addition to its potential health benefits, green tea has been linked to enhancing cognitive function, metabolic rate, and overall metabolic health, making it a significant factor in a rapidly aging population.