Benefits, how to prepare and more

Green tea is a drink that has gained popularity in recent years due to its numerous health benefits. Originating in China, green tea is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, just like black tea and white tea. However, green tea is different from other types of tea because the leaves are harvested and processed in a specific way that preserves their natural nutrients and antioxidants.

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon of green tea leaves (or 1 sachet)
• 250 ml of water

Method of preparation

1. Heat the water: Heat the water until it is almost boiling, approximately 80°C. Avoid letting the water boil completely, as very hot water can bitter the green tea.

• Add green tea: Place green tea leaves in an infuser or use a green tea bag and place in the cup.
• Pour the water: Pour the hot water over the green tea leaves in the cup.
• Steep time: Let the tea steep for about 2 to 3 minutes. Avoid leaving it for much longer to avoid it becoming bitter.
• Remove leaves or tea bag: Remove the tea leaves or tea bag from the cup.
• Serving: The green tea is ready to be served. It can be enjoyed plain or with a little honey to sweeten, if you prefer.

Tips

• Use filtered water for a purer flavor.
• For a stronger tea, use more tea leaves rather than prolonging the steeping time.
• Green tea can be consumed hot or cold. If you prefer it cold, let it cool and add ice.

Health Benefits

Green tea is known for its numerous health benefits. In this section, we will discuss some of the main benefits that green tea can offer.

Antioxidants
Green tea is rich in antioxidants, which help protect the body’s cells against damage caused by free radicals. Antioxidants may also help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and cancer.

Prevention of diseases
In addition to its antioxidant effects, green tea can also help prevent a number of diseases. Studies suggest that green tea may help reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease.

Weight loss
Green tea is also known for its weight loss effects. It contains compounds that can help increase the body’s metabolic rate, which can help you burn more calories and fat. Additionally, green tea can also help reduce appetite and increase feelings of satiety.

In short, green tea can offer a range of health benefits, from disease prevention to weight loss. It is important to remember that these benefits may vary from person to person and that green tea should not be considered a cure for any disease. However, including green tea in a healthy diet can be an easy and delicious way to improve your body’s overall health.

Types of Green Tea

Sencha
Sencha is one of the most common types of green tea. It is made from the youngest leaves of the tea plant, and is known for its bright green color and fresh flavor. Sencha is generally considered a medium quality tea, but it is still very popular due to its mild flavor and easy drinking.

Matcha
Matcha is a type of green tea that is known for its vibrant green color and intense flavor. It is made from tea leaves that have been ground into a fine powder. Matcha is often used in Japanese tea ceremonies, but it is also popular around the world for its unique flavor and purported health benefits.

Gyokuro
Gyokuro is a type of green tea that is grown in the shade, which gives it a mild, sweet flavor. It is considered one of the highest quality green teas, and is often compared to fine wine. Gyokuro is generally more expensive than other types of green tea, but many people find it to be worth the higher price due to its unique flavor and aroma.

Differences between Green Tea and Other Teas

When comparing green tea to other types of tea, it is important to note that each variety has unique characteristics that set them apart. Below, we list some differences between green tea and other popular teas:

Black tea
Black tea is produced from the leaves of the same plant as green tea, but goes through a longer oxidation process. This results in a drink that is darker and has a stronger flavor than green tea. Black tea also contains more caffeine than green tea.

White tea
White tea is made from the young leaves of the tea plant, which are harvested before they are fully ripe. White tea is less processed than green tea, which means it retains more antioxidants. The flavor of white tea is smooth and sweet, with floral notes.

Oolong Tea
Oolong tea is a type of partially oxidized tea that falls between green tea and black tea in terms of flavor and color. Oolong tea is generally darker and stronger than green tea, but milder and sweeter than black tea.

In short, each type of tea has its own distinct characteristics. Green tea is known for its light, fresh flavor as well as its health benefits. However, if you’re looking for a stronger or more caffeinated drink, black tea may be a better option. White tea is an ideal choice for those looking for a smooth, sweet flavor, while oolong tea is a good option for those who like a more complex, balanced flavor.