As the winter season sets in, even non-coffee drinkers can be tempted by the glut of sugary, (often pumpkin) flavored “holiday” drinks. Playing on our sugar addiction and holiday spirit, marketing geniuses get us at every corner. However, remember that consuming excess sugar takes a toll both on your health, and on your skin. As a gift to yourself, try substituting something healthy for at least some of those holiday drinks. Green tea, native to China and India, has been consumed and lauded for its health benefits for centuries. It is made from un-oxidized tea leaves and is one of the least processed types of tea. Modern science has begun to show us what those ancient peoples knew; green tea is all around amazing! You can drink it hot or cold, depending on the weather Las Vegas decides to throw at us. And as a bonus, you can use the steeped tea bags to reduce under eye dark circles and puffiness.
Green tea has been consumed and lauded for its health benefits for centuries. It is made from un-oxidized tea leaves and is one of the least processed types of tea. Modern science has begun to show us what those ancient peoples knew; green tea is all around amazing.
Minimal Processing
Because of its minimal processing, green tea contains high levels of antioxidants and beneficial bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols. These compounds help rid your body of free radicals, which are known to play a part in the aging process and the formation of disease.
Better than caffeine alone
While green tea contains less caffeine than coffee, it also contains the amino acid L-theanine, which works together with caffeine to improve brain function. So you get a healthy brain boost, not the jitters and then a caffeine crash.
Anti-everything
Green tea has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, and is therefore helpful in preventing dental cavities, stress, chronic fatigue, and helps treat skin conditions and arthritis. In addition, the catechins (antioxidants) in green tea can have a protective effect on neurons and may reduce the risk of both Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. Amino acids found in green tea reduce stress and provide a feelming of calm.
What calories?
It is a zero calorie drink, and there are many types of green tea, so you can easily find one to suit your tastes! (Try a green tea latte, green tea lemonade, or a green tea smoothie)
Tips for maximizing benefits
* Don’t add green tea to boiling water, that will destroy some of the catechins. Instead try to steep in 160 to 170 degree water.
* Add lemon. Vitamin C makes the healthy compounds in green tea easier to absorb.
* Levels of the healthful compounds in green tea can vary. High end teas usually have more, and canned green tea drinks generally have less.
Looking for another way to beautiful your life? Schedule your appointment with us today, or call for a consultation on any of our treatments.
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