The wonderful health benefits of green tea
Thanks to the wonderful benefits of green tea, over the centuries, the Japanese have maintained the habit of drinking tea. Green tea is made from Camellia sinensis leaves, without the oxidation process of pink tea or black tea, so it retains the precious natural compounds. The most prominent of which are catechin and Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG) - substances that can boost metabolism, support fat burning and prevent many chronic diseases.
According to Dr. Catherine Ulbricht, a pharmacologist at Massachusetts General Hospital (USA): "Green tea not only supports weight control, but also helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes thanks to its ability to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce chronic inflammation". Dr. Ulbricht also emphasizes that this benefit is only optimal when tea is brewed properly, avoiding losing the bioactive in the water that is too hot or soaked for too long.
A study published in the National Library of Medicine shows that regular supplementation of green tea can reduce belly fat, improve BMI and regulate blood pressure - key factors in the treatment of metabolic syndrome.
How to make green tea properly to avoid bitterness
If you have tried drinking green tea and felt disappointed by the unpleasant smell of the tea tree or sand, you may have boiled the water too much or soaked the leaves for too long. Here is the right way to mix it to make it to your flavors:
Boil the water until hot enough: Take about 200ml of water and boil until nearly boiling (scale 80 - 85°C). Do not boil to 100°C because high heat burns catechin - the most valuable antioxidant active ingredient in green tea.
Add tea leaves or straw bags: Add 1 teaspoon of green tea leaves (or 1 tea bag) to the glass. If you use loose leaves, remember to strain after soaking.
Steep the tea on time: Cover and steep for 2 - 3 minutes. Don't leave it too long - that is the reason why the tea is bitter.
enhance the flavor of lemon and honey: A little fresh lemon and 1 small spoonful of honey not only soothe the bitter taste but also help increase the absorption of nutrients, especially vitamin C that supports EGCG absorption.
Reuse tea bags: A green tea bag can be brewed 3-4 times, as long as you do not leave it at room temperature for too long.
