Is green tea really ‘nature’s ozempic’? What the experts say

It’s the green lights for green tea.

The wholesome beer has long been known for its antioxidant properties, and recently, influencers have been touting it as a natural Ozempic. However, experts are now saying that while some claims are overblown, the green stuff may be even better for us than previously thought.

Tea leaves contain catechins, a type of polyphenol and flavonoid that protect our cells from damage as we age.

Tea leaves contain more catechins than any other food or beverage, and green tea, which undergoes less processing from leaf to cup than other tea varieties, tends to retain its catechins.

Among these catechins is EGCG, which fights inflammation and protects cells.

You’ll get the most for your cup and the highest doses of EGCG by drinking green tea fresh, as powders and ready-to-mix packets vary greatly in EGCG content and lose 30-50% of their catechins if they aren’t. consumed within six months.

Experts say that depending on your sensitivity to caffeine, you should aim for 2-4 cups of green tea a day. More is not necessarily a disadvantage, but the benefits are reduced. Consistency is the name of the game when it comes to sipping, as the body benefits of green tea are cumulative.

Among these benefits is heart health. Research has linked regular consumption of green tea to a 25 percent lower risk of heart disease and stroke, fatal heart disease and stroke, and death from all causes. Compounds in green tea are known to protect against cardiovascular disease and its risk factors – including high blood pressure and dyslipidemia.

The flavonoids in green tea have also been shown to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Green tea is equally good for the mind and body as it is a known mood booster.

“Scientifically, there are bioactive substances in green tea that keep the mind focused but calm,” Maggie Moon, MS, RD, a brain health nutrition expert and best-selling author of The MIND, told Well + Good Diet”.

“It’s not hard to think that they contribute to the overall well-being experienced in Okinawa, where locals often enjoy jasmine-infused green tea,” she said, referring to Japan’s Blue Zone, historically known for longevity and once called “the land.” . of the immortals.”

A 2018 study found that those who consumed at least three cups of green tea per week had a 21% lower chance of depression compared to those who did not drink the beverage.

Moon also noted that green tea flavonoids known to increase brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), helps grow new brain cells and keep existing brain cells healthy. Flavonoids suppress brain inflammation and counteract the negative effects of stress.

The caffeine and flavanols in green tea have also been found to prevent memory loss.

But can you drink poorly?

Not exactly. While social media suggests that green tea may work as “nature’s Ozempic” by raising GLP-1, the hormone that lowers blood sugar and tells your body it’s full, research says the resulting increase is insignificant.

Other studies have found that the catechins in green tea help with weight loss by promoting feelings of satiety, but the results are gradual. Think long game over quick fix.

“Eating tea plants is not like a drug. It won’t have an overwhelming effect,” Carol Johnston, professor of nutrition at Arizona State University, tells TIME. She recommends that people continue to sip while managing their expectations, “A slow, moderate weight loss is the healthiest type of weight loss. Don’t expect to lose 10 pounds in two weeks. This is a lifelong process.”