The Chinese and Japanese swear by its medicinal benefits. That’s why they consume it by the gallons throughout their lifetime. Their extended lifespan, usually free from debilitating diseases may well prove their claim.
Western research is catching up to validate what these cultures have known all along: that this most natural form of Camellia sinensis (minimal oxidation and not fermented) is good for the health and so using a green tea detox will certainly have its benefits.
More studies point to the fact that accumulated toxins, which the body is unable to efficiently flush out, is behind most degenerative diseases. While the liver and kidneys are the main players in cleansing the system (along with the lungs, lymph nodes and skin) the current lifestyles of most people simply overload these organs until they wear out and break down.
A green tea detox is an invaluable supplement to help flush out toxins and cleanse the body.
Rich in polyphenols, specifically epigallocathechin gallate (EGCG), which is a powerful antioxidant; it builds the body’s defense system to fight off free radicals.
The body itself produces free radicals each time cells are broken down to create energy. Throw in the environment so abundant in free radicals (pollution from air, water and land, food, and even the sun through UV rays) and its understandable why the excretory system just can’t handle the pressure.
A recent study by the Arizona Cancer Center also showed EGCG boosted the production of detox enzymes known as GST enzymes that effectively strengthen the body’s defenses against carcinogens or cancer-causing toxins.
While a green tea detox will not actually flush out these toxins, according to Arizona Cancer Center’s H.H. Sherry Chow, PhD D, there will be an increased production of GST enzymes that will help convert carcinogens to non-toxic chemicals.
Other than polyphenols, green tea is also packed with vitamins and minerals. It is an effective diuretic, to stimulate the cleansing process, while hydrating the body. A green tea detox improves digestion so that food is broken down efficiently into energy, the toxins separated and flushed out and the necessary nutrients absorbed for good health.
Further, it inhibits cholesterol absorption resulting to less toxin build-up. This is perhaps the reason why some studies have shown that green tea drinkers have a lower risk of developing cardiovascular diseases aside from certain kinds of cancer.
A green tea detox will also increase the metabolic rate. This is a natural energy booster as it helps burn more calories. The more energy the body expends, the less fat stored thereby reducing toxin accumulation. If you’re looking for an effective way to lose weight, a green tea detox can complement your regimen.
A green tea detox is also said to be effective for smokers since the polyphenols from green tea minimizes negative effects of smoking. This is supported by studies to explain why heart diseases were not very common among Japanese men, even though 75% of them were smokers.
At the same time, antioxidants also slow down the ageing process leaving you with a more youthful appearance. If ancient cultures that religiously include green tea in their diet have gotten such great results from it, then following suit may just be another key to living a healthier life.
