Get the kiss of life, with green tea

A new study reveals that Green Tea is good for your gums and teeth. iTALK tells you why this beverage should replace your cola can

Regular consumption of Green Tea leads to significantly lesser symptoms of periodontal disease, says a new study. Chemical antioxidant catechin can destroy bacteria and viruses that cause throat infections, dental caries and other dental conditions. It may lower a person's need for emergency dentistry.

Besides its dental benefits, Green Tea is beneficial for weight loss, and helps protect the liver and immune system. We give you a lowdown on its other benefits, how many cups to have a day and why it's a favourite with celebrities.

How is Green Tea good for you?

Hira Mahajan Nutritionistu00a0
Weight loss: Often referred to as the secret behind the Hollywood Weight Loss Diet, Green Tea is an excellent fat burner.u00a0
Prevents cancer: Bladder, colon, Esophageal, pancreas, rectum and stomach cancers can be prevented with long-term consumption of Green Tea, say studies.
Protects the heart: The natural antioxidants in the tea may have a strong effect on heart disease, controlling blood pressure and lowering cholesterol. Antioxidants decrease blood clotting.
Prevents Arthritis:u00a0 It's a natural anti-inflammatory and reduces the pain of arthritis. Certain antioxidants in Green Tea, naturally postpone the onset or severity of certain types of arthritis.
Protects the liver: Scientists suggest that it helps the liver in 2 ways: by protecting the liver cells and by triggering the immune system. It has been shown to protect the liver against toxins like alcohol and chemicals in cigarette smoke.
Promotes health during pregnancy: Green Tea provides supplements such as iron, magnesium and calcium for to-be mothers.
Anti-ageing: It has great anti-ageing benefits. The antioxidants are compared to those in over 21 fruits and vegetables.

Why drink Green Tea?
>>Cuts stroke by up to 80%
>>Recommended by cancer society as a "High priority for cancer prevention"
>>Protects the prostrate from cancer
>>Proven to help with weight loss
>>One of the strongest antioxidants available
>>Helps digestion and reduces bloating
>>Normalises healthy bacteria in the intestines
>>Stops dental decay and gum disease
>>Helps with bad breath
>>Prevents heart disease

Shekhar Ravjiani Music composer
I drink Green Tea three times a day morning, afternoon and before I go to bed. I am feeling much better; it has taken care of my acidity problem

Green tea for the perfect smile

Dr Prashant Bhide Periodontist
Green tea is an excellent antioxidant. It has active ingredients like polyphenols in the form of catechins and flavinoids and epigallocatechin gallater (ECGC); all of them are powerful antioxidants. Green Tea has the ability to reduce symptoms of periodontal disease due to the presence
of catechin.

Green tea fights tooth decay as it inhibits major bacteria like streptococci mutans and helps prevent gum disease with reduction of plaque. It naturally contains fluoride, which protects teeth from cavities.u00a0

Green tea polyphenols control the adhesion of dental caries mutants. It prevents activity of saliva and prevents decomposition of starch into maltose which halts generation of carbohydrates that can be activated by dental caries mutants.

One must never drink caffeine when you are hungry, or at night since it increases appetite and ruins your sleep. Green Tea has only 50% caffeine.

As a health drink, it helps prevent tooth decay, gum disease and reduces chances of cancer.