According to the American Heart Association (AHA), green tea contains catechin - a group of polyphenols with strong antioxidant activity, especially epigallocatechin gallate.
These compounds are believed to have the ability to support lowering LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) and improving blood vessel function.
Regular use of green tea is associated with improved total cholesterol and LDL levels in some groups with mild to moderate dyslipidemia.
The mechanism of green tea does not lie in "miraculous fat burning", but mainly in its antioxidant ability and lipid metabolism support. When oxidative stress is prolonged, LDL cholesterol is easily oxidized and contributes to the formation of atherosclerosis plaques in the lumen.
Catechins in green tea can help limit this process to a certain extent.
Some studies have also noted that EGCG can affect the absorption of fat and cholesterol in the gut. Polyphenols in green tea are associated with regulating lipid metabolism and reducing low-level inflammatory reactions - factors related to cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome.
A green tea formula to support blood fat control recommended by many experts includes:
3-5 g of dried green tea or a few fresh tea leaves; 300-500 ml of hot water at about 80 degrees C; Can add a few slices of lemon or mint; Do not add too much sugar or condensed milk;
Incubate tea for about 3-5 minutes and then use it after a snack. This is a drinking method that helps limit the overly astringent taste and still retains most beneficial polyphenols.
However, experts emphasize that green tea is not a blood fat treatment. A common mistake today is that many people believe that just drinking green tea can "dissolve blood fat" without changing diet or exercising. In fact, the effectiveness of green tea is usually only at the level of support and depends greatly on the overall lifestyle.
Another problem is abusing strong tea. Drinking too much strong green tea can cause insomnia, palpitations or stomach irritation due to caffeine and tannins. According to Mayo Clinic, people sensitive to caffeine or with stomach disease should limit drinking too strong tea, especially on an empty stomach.
The most important foundation for blood fat control is still to reduce saturated fat, limit processed foods, increase exercise and maintain a reasonable weight. Green tea should only be considered a supporting part of a healthy diet.
