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Do you drink Green Tea?

Posted by richrf • 6/09/08 • Subscribe to this Discussion [RSS] • Report This Topic
Topics: anti-oxidents, free radicals, green tea, health

My friend sent me this article on green tea. Basically green tea is a super-antioxidant, that protects the body of free-radicals. That is, those compounds in our body that rob our body of oxygen causing all sorts of disease.

Does anyone else here drink green tea for health?

www2.healthtalk.com/go/health-now/webcasts/the-truth-about-green-tea/transc...

User Comments

6/09/08

Nomadic

By the bucket full. Have done for years.

[reply]
1. 6/09/08
  
  richrf
  
  Do you spend much time in the lav?
6/09/08

DrowseyMonkey

And pleasure I love all teas, but yes green tea is healthy for you. I come from a long-line of tea drinkers. I think tea is more popular in Canada, I know when I've travelled to the States and asked for tea I got ice tea, so we were told we always have to ask for 'hot tea' lol. Ice tea isn't that big here. Putting on the kettle for a cuppa is quite popular.

[reply]
1. 6/09/08
  
  richrf
  
  I only drink hot tea or room temperature. The cold drinks interfere with digestion, so I try to stay away from them. I more or less follow the kind of diet recommended by those who have studied the traditional cultures, e.g. Asia, Europe, etc. Lots of veggies, some grains, a little bit of meats/poultries, and hots drinks.
  
  Thanks for the comment,
  
  Rich
6/09/08

gosmelltheflowers

We love the stuff - with honey in of course!

[reply]
1. 6/09/08
  
  richrf
  
  Raw honey! It's nice to have access to raw honey. Tastes totally different from the cooked variety. But I drink my tea plain. I love honey in hot water though.
  
  Rich
6/09/08

richrf

The article is fascinating reading. Lots of good information. I didn't realize that historically Chinese only drank green tea, until recently, because of European influences.

[reply]
1. 6/09/08
  
  DrowseyMonkey
  
  Oh yes, and their tea ceremonies are fascinating.
2. 6/09/08
  
  richrf
  
  I've never been to one. But I know people who do it, and love it. I'm just not the ritual type though. I am sure it is lovely.
  
  Rich
6/09/08

Nomadic

It's good for the mind, Rich

[reply]
1. 6/09/08
  
  richrf
  
  @Nomadic
  
  Thanks for the comment. Probably good for many, many reasons, as are veggies. I drink mostly herbals nowadays, but I drink green tea now and then. I try to be moderate in everything I do.
2. 6/10/08
  
  Nomadic
  
  Yeah. And I am a vegetarian too. This healthy living must even out the wine intake then!
6/09/08

richrf

Here is an interesting tidbit about veggies that I pulled out:

"We certainly know from epidemiology studies here in the U.S. and everywhere else that vegetables, specifically cruciferous vegetables and fruit consumption…

Cruciferous vegetables meaning the horrible tasting stuff like and broccoli and cauliflower, the bitter stuff?

That's correct, broccoli, Brussels sprouts. We know that those are good for preventing quite a few different cancers from the point of view of epidemiology in our society. So if you want a cancer positive diet, you have to go to what we know is true in our society, and that would be certainly fruits and vegetables. "

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6/09/08

richrf

Here is another little tidbit relating to heart disease:

"In this big Japanese study I just mentioned, the big benefit of green tea was for heart disease mortality and all cause mortality. The participants in the study who drank five or more cups of green tea a day had a 16 percent lower all cause mortality rate than those who didn't drink that much. And the reduction in deaths from heart disease specifically was even more impressive. The people who drank five or more cups a day had a 26 percent lower risk of heart disease death than those who drank less than one cup."

[reply]
6/09/08

DocNicole

Absolutely dah-ling! I am drinking it right now. It makes you ghetto-fabulous. One of the cheapest ways to get your anti-oxidants in.

[reply]
1. 6/09/08
  
  richrf
  
  And you do look F-A-B-U-L-O-U-S my dear. Here's to you.
  
  Rich
2. 6/11/08
  
  wandadog13
  
  did someone mention fabulous??
6/09/08

tiggyblog

I do like it but it makes me throw up.

[reply]
1. 6/09/08
  
  richrf
  
  Ouch. Really?
6/09/08

richrf

Here is an additional key paragraph:

"So the idea is if you are going to drink tea, you wouldn't want to drink a lot of it while you are eating, and the best thing to do if you have low iron or you are anemic would be to do the tea maybe an hour before or an hour after you eat."

This is very similar to the way Chinese drink tea. Never during the meal. Always before.

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6/09/08

ttiger

i like green tha and iced tea!

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6/09/08

tiggyblog

Yep. Apparently it's not just me, I've heard of other people who feel nauseous after drinking it. I'm fine with everything else!

[reply]
1. 6/09/08
  
  richrf
  
  Well, just eat your veggies then. To your good health!
  
  Rich
6/09/08

RenalFailure

And green tea is loaded with caffeine as well. Gets me through the work day. Oh, and I guess the cancer stuff is good too.

[reply]
1. 6/09/08
  
  richrf
  
  This is one of the reasons I do not have too much green tea. I try to keep everything in moderation. Just lots of different things. One thing I do not want is a caffeine addiction.
6/09/08

clioandme

Yeah, but I think what I get sometimes comes from China. And I drink green tea in addition to coffee. Just can't give up that strong Fair Trade coffee I like so much in the morning.

[reply]
1. 6/09/08
  
  richrf
  
  I gave up coffee, as a regular habit, when I was in my early 30s. I got really sick. After I recovered, I really couldn't stand the smell of coffee and caffeine for a very long time. Sort of like someone who has rid themselves of a tobacco habit. Nowadays, I have some, every once in a while. For me, it's OK since, for the most part I drink other things. Right now, I am drinking a new coffee substitute made from barley and I put some soy cream in it. It is quite nice.
6/09/08

timethief

I drink it by the bucketful and I only drink decaffeinated green tea.

Decaffeinated Green Tea:
Two commercial decaffeinating methods exist. One uses ethyl acetate solvent, retaining only 30% of healthy poly phenols. The other process using water and carbon dioxide (C02) called “effervescence” retaining 95% of the poly phenols.

Decaffeinating Green Tea at home:
But green tea can be decaffeinated naturally by the drinker. All you have to do is steep the tea for 45 seconds in hot water and then pour off the liquid. Next, add more hot water and steep as you normally would to brew a cup of that tea. Up to 80 percent of the caffeine is released in the first infusion of water so only minimal amounts will remain when you add water the second time. This method eliminates very little of the tea's flavor and aroma.

[reply]
1. 6/09/08
  
  richrf
  
  Interesting. I know that Chinese reuse the tea, because of the differences in medicinal value. I will try to do some research on this and talk to some of by friends, to better understand the tradition and how it may relate to green tea.
  
  Here is a listing that I pulled up of the comparison of caffeine in coffee and tea. I know that there are lots of variables, but this should at least offer some starter info:
  
  8-ounce Beverage milligrams
  Coffee, Drip 115-175
  Coffee, Brewed 80-135
  Coffee, Espresso (2 ounces) 100
  Coffee, Instant 65-100
  Tea, iced 47
  Tea, brewed, imported brands (avg.) 60
  Tea, brewed, U.S. brands (avg.) 40
  Tea, instant 30
  Tea, green 15
  Hot cocoa 14
  Coffee, Decaf, brewed 3-4
  Coffee, Decaf, instant 2-3
  
  SOURCES: National Soft Drink Association, US Food and Drug Administration, Bunker and McWilliams, Pepsi, Slim-Fast.
6/09/08

voodooKobra

I hate the store-bought stuff, but straight-up green tea rules.

[reply]
1. 6/09/08
  
  richrf
  
  I have both. I agree. A really fine green tea is really fine. We have many places in Chicago to get great tasting green tea. Very smooth and flavorful.
6/09/08

kdawg68

kind of skimming so i apologize if this came up before. Does the temperature matter as far as getting the benefits?

I'd also tend to think there are a lot of reasons for that 16% decrease in mortality rate drop - but definitely diet (including perhaps green tea) is a component of that.

I like the stuff - but the version I like is a cold store bought versin with ginseng added. I don't drink a lot of it as caffeine screws me up and sugars aren't processed well in my system - but it is dang tasty.

I hope this isn't too graphic for folks, but in college I used to swear that stuff was a liquid version of a certain little blue pill.

[reply]
1. 6/09/08
  
  timethief
  
  @kdawg
  
  "Does the temperature matter as far as getting the benefits?"
  I'd like DocNicole to weigh in on this. It's my understanding that the temperature the tea is drank at makes no difference to the nutrient value.
  
  You can easily decaffeinate it yourself (see above).
2. 6/09/08
  
  kdawg68
  
  where you at Doc?
  
  Sounds good to me. I'll have to check out how to decaffeinate - had never even thought of that!
3. 6/09/08
  
  kdawg68
  
  rats - double post!
6/09/08

accidentalsexiness

I actually am a huge lover of teas. I drink green tea every morning.

[reply]
1. 6/09/08
  
  richrf
  
  Good for you. A cup of tea a day will keep the doctor away.
6/09/08

richrf

I don't pay to much concern to things like how hot the water is, etc. There are soooooooo many variables in life. I just have a variety of things, and they are all good. It is tough to find a natural growing food that is bad for you (unless you are allergic to it), if taken in moderate quanties.

If you read the medical journals, every week they come out with a new study that suggests this food is good for you, or that food is good for you, etc. Well, they are all good for you - until you start taking to much. At this point it swings back.

Veggies, tea, fruit, whole grains, herbals, moderate amount of meat/poultry/fish, are all healthy - unless they have tons of chemicals and antibiotics. And don't forget the mega favorite - plain, beautiful Water.

Rich

[reply]
6/09/08

dixiefilms

I drink green tea every day with half a lemon...

From THE X RATED GRANDMA

[reply]
1. 6/09/08
  
  richrf
  
  Grandma! What big "eyes" you have. Must be from the green tea.
  
  And the best of health to you. (Just keep away from the wolves :))
6/09/08

nardeeisms

Yes- Nards

[reply]
1. 6/09/08
  
  richrf
  
  Hope you are enjoying it.
6/09/08

focusorganic

You know what is amazing? Green tea with ginseng and honey *drools*

[reply]
1. 6/09/08
  
  richrf
  
  Yummy.
  
  Actually, there are lots of different ginsengs. The Korean ginseng is pretty "hot" (makes the body very warm), as is best if you have a cooler body type. The Chinese ginseng a little less so, and American ginseng the mildest. My body type is already pretty hot (I mean energetically wise ), so any ginseng would heat me up even further, and may cause health problems (e.g. cold sores), so I stay away from ginseng. But it sounds like you adore it, so it must be just right for you.
2. 6/09/08
  
  focusorganic
  
  That's really interesting! It actually raises body temperature? Would it have anything to do with your normal body temperature?
3. 6/09/08
  
  richrf
  
  Yes, it could eventually raise normal body temperature. The initial feeling is one of hotness. Sort of like you feel if you have some warm, spicy food like garlic or onion. Over time, the body could over heat. Ginseng is a very strong, energetic herb (it grows in the wild and is very hearty), and has profound effects on the body. However, a person who already has lots of energy (I have strong "qi" from my Tai Chi practices), could then get too much of a good thing, and start over heating.
  
  If you ever talk to someone who always feels "cold", this is a perfect type of person to use ginseng.
  
  Cya,
  Rich
4. 6/10/08
  
  focusorganic
  
  "If you ever talk to someone who always feels "cold", this is a perfect type of person to use ginseng."
  
  That would be me! I have, what we call in my house, "corpse feet" most of the time, but especially right after getting in bed.
5. 6/10/08
  
  richrf
  
  Hi there,
  
  So yes, for you, foods that are moderately spiced with garlic, onions, etc. would create internal heat. Cooling foods such as watermelon would make you feel internally cooler. Ultimately, the way to build up your internal heat is moderate internal exercises that help build up the energy (qi) within you, such as yoga, Tai Chi, or even regular walking. You have to use less energy (qi) than you are creating, and you will feel warmer inside. Possibly, make dietary changes. For example never drink cold drinks or eat raw salads.
  
  Cya,
  Rich
6. 6/10/08
  
  focusorganic
  
  I don't have hot drinks often. For some reason, they make me dizzy.
  
  I actually did take Tai Chi a few years ago, and I've been starting doing Yoga at home. I know Tai Chi helped with my balance and posture, but I can't honestly say if it helped my internal heat.
7. 6/10/08
  
  richrf
  
  The internal heat comes in two steps:
  
  1) The stretching and movement
  
  2) The deep breathing which stokes the fire.
  
  I am not sure why hot drinks would cause dizziness, but I hope you can work through it. Often, dizziness is caused by lack of energy (qi), inhibiting blood circulation (energy is needed to move the blood). I hope that you find Yoga helpful. Good luck!
  
  Rich
6/09/08

Theresa111

Yes.

[reply]
1. 6/09/08
  
  richrf
  
  Lots of green tea drinkers here.
6/10/08

mayjah

I love it any which way; hot, cold, made into ice cream, mixed with Kahlua ...

[reply]
1. 6/10/08
  
  richrf
  
  Yummy .. a real green tea lover. I like the idea of a little Kahlua once in a while.
6/10/08

shawie9877

I don't but I take the capsules, a whole lot easier, lols!

[reply]
1. 6/10/08
  
  richrf
  
  lol. It is fine, but the tea itself has much more of the active and energetic elements that you are looking for. If you have a chance, try it sometimes. The pill forms of all stuffs is already "dead" and is never as good as the fresh harvest of the leaves. Ask your parents.
6/10/08

GFG

I used to..until i found out trials showed that BLACK TEA is far more superior in health benefits compared to the green one

[reply]
1. 6/10/08
  
  richrf
  
  I think that black tea has benefits also, but almost too much of a good thing. I am always wary of taking in too much of anything, because then the good affects reverses. I just take a little bit of everything, and try not to out think myself too much. Oolong is somewhere in between as is the popular Chinese drinks Pu-erh, as well as the delicate White.
  
  Happy drinking!
6/10/08

jan4insight

I drink both black tea and green tea, and sometimes oolong, and even white tea occasionally. Can you guess that I like tea?

[reply]
1. 6/10/08
  
  richrf
  
  You are like me. A little bit of everything. I also drink herbals as well as Pu-erh. Pu-erh is milder and White is quite delicate.
6/10/08

booboostrider

i LOVE green tea.... well i am a big tea drinker but my fave is green tea.

www.BoinkedPika.co.nr
www.BoobooStrider.co.nr

[reply]
1. 6/10/08
  
  richrf
  
  Good for you. Love my tea also.
6/10/08

roentarre

I love green tea. I collect boutique teas in fact

[reply]
1. 6/10/08
  
  richrf
  
  Really? Do you have any favorite?
6/10/08

jessblabber

My friends keep nagging me that I drink to much coffee so I bought a box of green tea. I was shocked when I opened the box the tea bags were individually wrapped with plastic. Is that normal?

[reply]
1. 6/10/08
  
  richrf
  
  There are all kinds of ways to wrap tea. Sounds like you purchased some finer tea, that was individual wrapped and meant to be brewed with the leaves fully exposed. This is the better way to brew it, so I hope you enjoy it. Brewing time will vary depending upon individual tastes so experiment to you get the flavor you want. And you can reuse them. The second brewing bring different health values compared to the first.
6/10/08

crkian

my wife used to dring that ooo long tea what ever it is

[reply]
6/10/08

richrf

Oolong is a very popular and ancient drink in China. Probably oxidized so that it can last longer, but still retain some of the taste of green tea. It is not one of my favorites, but it would appeal to those who like strong black tea, but would like a slightly lighter taste. All of the these teas, according to research, have the same health benefits. My guess though, is that green tea is probably better for ordinary use, and black tea, or oolong for more occasional use, because it is stronger.

[reply]
6/10/08

satijournal

Green tea is a little weak for my tastes, unless it's iced tea. I like black tea better.

[reply]
1. 6/10/08
  
  richrf
  
  I know of many people who would agree with you. My ex liked black tea. If you are use to black tea, green is going to seem weak. What I do, is mix it up. Over time, you enjoy both. Happy drinking! And to your health. Cheers!
6/10/08

marcxtg248

yep after meal I try to drink green tea religously. good for the health ^_^

[reply]
1. 6/10/08
  
  richrf
  
  So it is said. Cheers to your health!
6/10/08

rockstarkid76

i prepare coconut tea, made from the dried flower of coconut tree...not just as an anti-oxidant but also it normalizes your blood sugar and your blood preasure.

[reply]
1. 6/10/08
  
  richrf
  
  Oh, you are making me soooo jealous. Sounds delicious.
6/10/08

mariamichelle

YES! I heard it stops you from getting a cold if you drink a cup as soon as you feel one coming on. I haven't had a cold in more than a year and a half. I always get at least once a year.

I used to hate it. Now I love it, but I drink it with milk and sugar

[reply]
1. 6/10/08
  
  richrf
  
  Yep, green tea has this capability of protecting the body against free radicals, thereby making the bodily system more efficient and able to keep itself clean and healthy. Your results are excellent. Others may not see the same results, but every little bit helps. Congratulations on your good health!
  
  Rich
6/10/08

jackpayne

Never touched the stuff.

[reply]
6/10/08

wolfcreek

I do...I will...and while I can't swear by the health benefits, I can tell you that its a great tool for relaxing myself after a day. I do drink the caffieneless stuff, but enjoy it no less.

[reply]
1. 6/10/08
  
  richrf
  
  Kewl. I also use chamomile tea for relaxation.
2. 6/10/08
  
  wolfcreek
  
  Shoot, if I'm just into relaxation, I pull out some of my hops tea and chill it for an evening of total relaxation...
6/10/08

7masterheathen

I have drank green tea long, long before it became fashionable to do so. I love the stuff. I make sun tea with it or brew it. Either way, it's tasty and good for ya.

[reply]
1. 6/10/08
  
  richrf
  
  Totally agree. I've been drinking it for about 40 years. First introduced to it by my Chinese friends.
6/11/08

wandadog13

yes but with milk - afternoon tea - the british contribution to world cuisine.

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6/11/08

sherliez

green teas can help lose weight

[reply]
1. 6/11/08
  
  GFG
  
  really? Why am i still fat
2. 6/11/08
  
  richrf
  
  Yes, I have also seen reports to that effect.
6/11/08

buyersweb

i like green tea... cold green tea is nice too with ice and lemon..

[reply]
1. 6/11/08
  
  richrf
  
  I use to drink cold tea, but because it interferes with the digestive process (throws cold water on the hot fire of digestion), I stopped. Now, I only drink hot tea, and usually not during meals. This is traditional in China.
9/05/08

vsatie

Thanks for the great article on green tea. My body cannot tolerate coffee anymore, and black tea is too strong for me, so green and herbal teas are where it's at. It good to read about all of the benefits of green tea- I will keep right on enjoying it!

[reply]
9/05/08

annaswan

I had never even considered it until Lipton came out with the white tea commercial and the little dude say's... "we pluck it"... that cracked me up every time I seen it, so I went to buy some finally - but they didn't have white, so I bought green. Primarily so I had a reason to imitate little dude when I made a cup... but none the less..

I'm now hooked on the stuff! Love it

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3/15/09

meroblog

Hi Cute blog... try women related specially increse economic status in society www.wsrsc.com/

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3/15/09

txtface

Green tea and honey. Can't beat it.

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4/07/09

marrysoe

comment removed by the community.

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4/10/09

Tonyboy

I started drinking green tea a long time ago because I wanted to try something different to the milk tea that I usually drank. At the start I found the taste bitter but I stuck to it. Now I even eat the tea leaves lol.

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