What is green tea?
Green tea is a non-oxidized tea made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. Unlike black tea, it retains a high content of catechins, polyphenols and antioxidants, giving it exceptional health benefits.
Originating inAsia, notably China and Japan, green tea is renowned for its detoxifying, energizing and protective effects. It is available in several popular varieties, including Sencha, Matcha, Gyokuro and Long Jing.
What are the benefits of green tea?
Green tea is a beverage with multiple benefits for health and well-being:
- Rich in antioxidants → Protects cells from aging and oxidative stress.
- Promotes weight loss → Speeds up metabolism and fat burning.
- Boosts energy and concentration → Contains theine (natural caffeine), which improves attention and reduces fatigue.
- Supports cardiovascular health → Reduces bad cholesterol (LDL) and improves blood circulation.
- Detoxifies the body → Helpseliminate toxins and stimulates liver function.
- Improves digestion → Soothes bloating and regulates intestinal transit.
- Strengthens the immune system → Thanks to its polyphenol and flavonoid content.
- Protects the skin → Anti-aging effect, fightsacne and skin inflammation.
How to use green tea
Green tea is mainly consumed as an infusion, but it can also be used in cooking and cosmetics.
As a hot or cold infusion
- Water temperature: 70-80°C to avoid bitterness.
- Infusion time: 2 to 3 minutes, depending on desired intensity.
- Dosage: 1 teaspoon per cup (approx. 2 g per 250 ml water).
As a refreshing iced tea
- Infuse cold for 4 to 6 hours in the refrigerator.
- Add lemon, ginger or mint for a detox drink.
As a dietary supplement
- In capsule or concentrated extract form, for a slimming and antioxidant cure.
- In matcha, ultra-fine powder rich in nutrients, ideal for drinks and pastries.
Recommended dosage:
- 2 to 4 cups a day to benefit from its health-giving effects.
- As a slimming cure, consume regularly over 3 to 4 weeks.
Does green tea help you lose weight?
Yes, thanks to its fat-burning and draining properties, it :
- Stimulates metabolism, increasing energy expenditure.
- Promotes fat oxidation, particularly during physical activity.
- Reduces the absorption of sugars and lipids, helping to regulate weight.
It is often combined with guarana and mate for an enhanced slimming effect.
Is green tea good for the heart?
Yes, thanks to its polyphenol and flavonoid content, it :
- Improves blood circulation and reduces hypertension.
- Reduces bad cholesterol (LDL) and promotes good cholesterol (HDL).
- Prevents cardiovascular disease by protecting blood vessels.
Regular consumption of green tea is often recommended to maintain a healthy heart.
Is green tea healthier than coffee?
Yes, because unlike coffee :
- It releases caffeine gradually, providing stable energy without fatigue.
- It contains L-theanine, an amino acid with relaxing effects.
- It is richer in antioxidants, with a beneficial effect on skin and immunity.
Caffeine content per cup:
- Green tea: 25 to 50 mg.
- Coffee: 80 to 100 mg.
Green tea is a milder, more balanced alternative to coffee.
What's the difference between green tea and black tea?
- Green tea → Low oxidation, rich in catechins, detoxifying and anti-aging effect.
- Black tea → Fully oxidized, richer in theine, stimulating and digestive effect.
Green tea is preferred for its health and slimming benefits, while black tea is more energizing.
Where to buy quality green tea?
Green tea is available in :
- Organic and specialist tea stores → Premium varieties such as Sencha, Matcha, Gyokuro.
- Pharmacies and parapharmacies → Teas in bags or leaves for well-being.
- Specialized online stores → Pure, flavored or fair-trade green teas.
- Asian and Japanese grocers → Selection of traditional green teas.
Choose organic, pesticide-free green tea from respectful plantations for best quality.
Does green tea have any contraindications?
Although beneficial, green tea should be consumed in moderation:
- Avoid at the end of the day, as it contains theine.
- Limit in cases of anemia, as it may reduce iron absorption.
- May be irritating to the stomach, especially on an empty stomach.
- Not recommended for pregnant women, due to its natural caffeine content.
- May interact with certain medications, notably anticoagulants and hypotensive drugs.
A balanced intake of green tea is the best way to enjoy all its benefits.