Unfortunately, Green Tea is now high on the list of “wonder cures” for obesity. While its use in the East dates back thousands of years, and it is a wonderful component of the ritual known as the Japanese Tea Ceremony, we want to instead concentrate its properties in powder or pill form and ingest it as quickly as possible, believing that such an action will aid in the rapid loss of weight.

While there are many admirable properties found in Green Tea, several of which have potentially beneficial outcomes, we fail to admit that one panacea will not replace years of bad eating habits and a lack of regular exercise. We feel that more is better—a high concentration of Green Tea will allow me to drop a dress size in two (2) weeks! We ignore any potential shock to our systems that imbibing large amounts of Green Tea can produce, and whether we are actually endangering our future by seeking the “quick fix.”

The evidence of many of the health claims attributed to Green Tea are largely anecdotal and the FDA has only approved it as a component in a medication for genital warts. Therefore, we best serve ourselves by slowing sipping an occasional cup of Green Tea or enjoying it as a participant in the Japanese Tea Ceremony. The time and effort needed to lose weight is best spent embracing the simple principles of exercise and a proper diet.

If we take a moment to examine the culture and the context in which green tea is served, we may notice that these elements are as important to Asian longevity as the attributes of green tea alone. Japanese green tea plays an important part in their tea ceremony, where the handling of the cup alone is a series of special movements.

In other words, if we can really attribute the use of green tea to everything from weight loss to the prevention of cancer cell growth, it should be as important to examine the context of the consumption of green tea, as it is to cite the beneficial ingredients of the tea itself. If we examine the Asian culture, we will immediately notice the importance of deliberation. They do not gulp; they savor their green tea and celebrate its preparation.

Perhaps we should look at our health practices with more patient eyes. Long ago, the originators of green tea recognized that the process was as important as the product and the journey was a part of the destination.

Apparently, the processing of green tea leaves by steaming them is thought to preserve the antioxidant properties of the chemical ECGC. In addition to combating free radicals, these antioxidants are said to promote the oxidation of fat cells. At this time, many people consider green tea to be a staple in their regimen for weight loss. Green tea does contain caffeine, but much less than found in a cup of coffee. It is also possible that most people drink it without the additives of cream and sugar commonly used with a cup of coffee.

The antioxidants contained in green tea are also anecdotally attributed to lowering cholesterol and even prevention of cancer cell growth. We can hope these claims bear scientific fruit in the future. However at this time, the Food and Drug Administration has not endorsed the use of green tea, except as indicated above. In the meantime, the best strategy is to consult your physician before consuming more than a cup or two of green tea per day.

As a part of a calming ritual after a hectic day, a cup of green tea can do wonders. Who knows? Perhaps the day will come when we can prove that it does much, much more.

Green tea has been cited for its antioxidant properties, in the form of ECGC chemical components and its reputed oxidation of fat cells. But no matter how much of it we drink, it will not replace the necessary changes in our lifestyles from the sedentary to the active. Those of us who are too rushed to enjoy a properly prepared cup of green tea now have the option of ingesting its extract in pill form. While this may seem more efficient, the possibility of an overdose is considerable, and we negate the enjoyment that savoring a cup of green tea can provide. Furthermore, the Food and Drug Administration does not currently endorse the use of green tea for weight loss.

Our bodies are systems and attempting to take “short cuts” to permanent changes inevitably result in defeat. In other words, the experience of five (5) pounds off is followed by 10
pounds back on. The use of green tea originated in the Far East where patience in all things is revered. We would be well served by following this cultural example when attempting to change our bodies. In the words of the tortoise, “Slow and steady wins the race.”

The documentation of weight loss has been anecdotal, but enough to pique the curiosity of university researchers. At this time, definitive studies of this product have not been published and the Green Tea Hp has not been given FDA approval. Persons who are or may be pregnant or taking medication are advised to refrain from taking Green Tea Hp, as serious side effects and contraindications may exist.

The touted components of Green Tea Hp also present special challenges. For example, noni juice is exceptionally high in potassium and could be toxic to patients with kidney disorders. High potassium levels (“hyperkalemia”) can have an effect on the cardiac function of the body, which can lead to cardiac arrhythmia and sudden death.

As it is a combination of popular supplements, Green Tea Hp is being aggressively marketed as a potential treatment for every ailment from weight loss to cancer. With the presence of anecdotal evidence and the absence of FDA approval, it is always best to consult your health practitioner before adding Green Tea Hp to your daily regimen.

Of course, for those who cannot tolerate large amounts of sugar, there is a diet version available that contains the sweetener Splenda. Honey is still an ingredient; therefore, this product cannot truly be classified as “sugar free.” Always remember to read the product labels carefully and check the amount of servings per container.

Additional products from this company include the Arizona Green Tea Energy Drink. This drink is slightly carbonated and each can has approximately 200 mg. of caffeine. Other possibly thermogenic ingredients include guarana. The amino acid taurine is added to complement the caffeine and is reputed to improve mental performance. There is also a great deal of sugar present from honey and high fructose corn syrup. Hopefully, those of you who swear by this drink are engaging in some forms of aerobic and weight-bearing exercises, thereby channeling the extra energy boost you receive from the drink. Otherwise, the ingredients may result in a weight gain, which would defeat one of its highly touted features.

Now available in Regular (flavored with sugar) and Diet (with sugar substitute added), the Lipton Company has answered the challenge posed by the Snapple Company. Founded in 1972, Snapple began marketing bottled teas in 1987. Therefore, Lipton has faced stiff competition in its bid for the share of the bottled tea market. Another challenge posed by Snapple concerns the element of taste. Apparently, aspartame is the sugar substitute used by Lipton in its Diet Green Tea, while Snapple Diet Green Tea uses Splenda, thereby giving the consumer a more conventional “sugary” taste.

There are those who would discourage the use of either artificial sugar product. With the introduction of the next generation of brand name sweetening additives such as Truvia, many companies marketing a “diet” green tea may have to go back to the drawing board. The overwhelming demand for a sweet taste without calories and/or side effects will keep Lipton and Snapple developing new ways to serve their customers. There is no doubt that we will benefit from this “healthy” competition.

As a component of the Japanese tea ceremony, Matcha Green Tea can be bitter. The taste  is counteracted by the traditional sweets that are served to guests before the presentation of the tea. The teacup or “chawan” is turned clockwise three (3) times by guests before drinking. When finished, guests are expected to slurp their appreciation, wipe where their lips touched the cup with their hand and turn it counterclockwise before returning the teacup to the host.
While this practice seems intricate to those of us living in the West, we should take note that few of us engage in any ritual practices in our home unless we are celebrating a religious holiday. It might not be a bad idea to add the practice of some sort of ritual to our daily lives.

The claims for Matcha Green Tea abound, due to the aforementioned concentrations. In the rush for the “quick health fix” by the average consumer, the contraindications of ingesting a high concentration of antioxidants can be ignored. Such a mistake could have dire consequences.
It is best to consult a health practitioner when considering non-ceremonial use of Matcha Green Tea.

Over 250 years ago, Sohen Nagatani developed a process for steaming green tea leaves. He originated this process in the Uji region, and it immediately produced a better tasting tea than the traditional method of roasting the tealeaves. To this day, one of the differences in the flavors between Japanese Green Tea and traditional black tea can be attributed to the steaming process. Mr. Nagatani shared his unique processing method with the local residents, thus ensuring the economic survival of the region. Many tea merchants pay tribute to this generous inventor by visiting his grave every year.

Another contributing factor to the successful proliferation of Japanese Green Tea is that it is grown in an area that is never chilly enough to freeze. Therefore, the non-deciduous plants grow healthy and strong.

The gift of Japanese Green Tea is highly regarded and is appropriate for all festive occasions. I have been so fortunate to receive a popular rendition of this gift. Many years ago, a group of friends celebrated my birthday by taking me to a special sushi bar. As much as I loved the meal, the highlight of my celebration was the desert of Japanese Green Tea ice cream.

There are many different types of Chinese green tea. Many well-known teas are harvested in the Zhejiang province alone. A very popular variety is Longjing Tea, which is named for its origin in the Longjing area of Hangzhou. For optimal flavor, the leaves are harvested during the first two weeks in the season and picked by hand. When we are served Chinese green tea in Chinese restaurants, it is highly possible we are enjoying this most traditional variety. Grown in the Zhejiang province, the leaves are a curved yellow-green. Another popular Chinese green tea is Long Ding Tea, and is more commonly known by the name Dragon Mountain Tea. It is harvested from March to April of the year.

The Chinese green teas mentioned above are just a few of the varieties available. One should keep in mind that there are many Chinese provinces that grow green tea and like wine connoisseurs, we should appreciate that these teas each have different bouquets and compliment different Chinese cuisine. Unlike our Western idea of “eating on the run,” the tradition of enjoying Chinese green tea is a ritual in itself. Tea preparation and service are done slowly, and the tea is savored. Even if we cast aside all of the touted health benefits, the ritual practice of drinking Chinese green tea might aid our digestion by slowing down our eating habits.

Ultra Lean Green Tea is a supplement marketed to those wishing to quickly lose weight. It appears that there is a free trial available with the payment of shipping costs of $5.95. However, it has been noted that if you do not cancel the trial, you are billed for the full cost of the packet, which is apparently over $70.00. The ingredients listed are referred to as amino acid and mineral “blends.” What are the proportions of the blends? What clinical trials support their use?

As any reputable health professional will state, rapid weight loss is not desirable. Most physicians specializing in obesity recommend dietary control of calories and an increase in exercise, with the goal of losing one to two pounds per week.

Ultra Lean Green Tea promotes its product by touting rapid weight loss, along with anecdotal testimonies of many other benefits. Many of the listed benefits of green tea extract have yet to be confirmed by the FDA, not to mention the potential complications from any other drug interactions. Unfortunately, many people will happily endanger their well being in an effort to zip a pair of size 4 blue jeans.

It would be wise to consult your health professional before embarking on this or any other weight loss system.

Within the last 10 years, scientific studies conducted worldwide have demonstrated that the ingestion of green tea extract resulted in increased energy and oxidation of fat cells. Of course, as there is caffeine content in green tea, that lone factor could account for the extra energy expenditure, which has produced significant anecdotal reports of weight loss.

Obviously, the more dramatic claims made to date concern the use of green tea to prevent cancer cell growth. Other fans of green tea insist that it can be used to lower cholesterol and produce better cholesterol ratios and even cure bad breath. At this time, the Food and Drug Administration has yet to endorse these claims.

With that in mind, green tea may be a beneficial and enjoyable repast, but it has yet to be used as a significant component in the treatment of cancers and other serious diseases. While it is no doubt more pleasant than the standard cancer and other disease treatment protocols, it has not replaced them. As always, it is wise to consult your physician before using it in significant amounts.

Green tea has been touted as a powerful antioxidant for some time. One of the anecdotal claims of green tea is weight loss. Due to its components of EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) and caffeine, green tea has thermogenic properties, meaning that increased energy and the burning of fat are possible results from ingestion. Clinical trials have yielded mixed results.

Obviously, replacing sugary sodas or chemically laden diet drinks with a cup of green tea is a healthier choice. However, the use of green tea alone will not provide permanent weight loss.
For optimal results, overall lifestyle changes must take place including regular exercise (aerobic and weight-bearing), the proper amount of sleep and the consistent practice of good nutrition.

In addition, anyone taking medications on a regular basis should consult their physician before adding significant amounts of green tea to their daily regimen, as the effect of some anticoagulant drugs can be diminished by green tea use.

As always, a disciplined lifestyle with a focus on healthy habits and constructive thought patterns is more effective than the use of a single product.

In 2006, the FDA approved “Veregen ointment,” a topical prescription used for the treatment of genital warts caused by the HPV virus. It has been acknowledged that green tea extract is one of the chemical ingredients of the ointment. This ointment is available only by prescription. Therefore, physicians may use it as a part of an overall treatment plan for the HPV virus. A visit to the doctor is necessary, and clinical trial results have been mixed.

Before rushing out to stock up on green tea extract, a word of caution is in order. Please note that the FDA does not recognize green tea as an effective panacea for the rest of its claimed benefits and a “more is better” approach could result in toxicity. The anecdotal evidence of the benefit of green tea is based upon the consumption of it in the form of tea, meaning that it has been diluted by water. The heavy concentrations found in green tea extract are many times the potency of drinking a cup or two of green tea per day.

Just like everything else, there are no “quick fixes” or “short cuts,” to safe ingestion of green tea. If brewing tea really presents a problem, it would be wise to consult with your physician or health practitioner before beginning to use any concentrated form of green tea on a regular basis.

Do you practically exist on coffee and Diet Cokes, just to make it through the afternoon? Are you trying to lose weight but the scale has not budged? If there were a drink that gave you a boost without chemicals, would you want to try it?

Everyone at your office has the flu, yet you sail through the week symptom-free.
What’s your secret?

All of the above scenarios depict some of the claimed benefits of drinking green tea on a regular basis. Perhaps the next time you prepare a cup of green tea to sip at your desk, your co-workers may ask to join you. Due to the presence of catechins, which are powerful antioxidants, your “green tea breaks” may have protected you from the latest office “bug.” Green tea also contains caffeine. Therefore, you may also be on the only person fully awake at the meeting held after lunch.

Whether or not all of these claims are scientifically substantiated, it is safe to say that drinking green tea on a regular basis is probably a good health habit to have. Just remember to consult your doctor before attempting a green tea regimen to combat any outstanding health issues. Remember that your body is a “temple of systems,” and it is always best when everything you ingest works in conjunction with everything else.