Green tea and lemon make for a delicious and effortless beverage that is also incredibly nutritious. Various studies have shown that this combination has numerous health benefits. Here are the top 10 benefits of drinking green tea with lemon:
In-rich with antioxidants properties
Green tea and lemon are both rich in antioxidants, which protect against cell damage and inflammation caused by oxidation.
In particular, green tea is rich in antioxidants such as epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), quercetin, chlorogenic acid and theogallin. Meanwhile, lemons are also a great source of antioxidants ascorbic acid, hesperidin, naringin and ferulic acid.
Studies have shown that antioxidants play an essential role in health and can protect the body against chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer, or obesity.
Maintain healthy weight-loss and dietary
Green tea with lemon can be a great addition to a healthy weight-loss diet. Many studies have shown that green tea can aid weight loss and increase fat burning.
Based on a review of 15 studies, it has been found that consuming green tea with higher amounts of EGCG for at least 12 weeks can lead to a reduction in body weight and body fat. Additionally, while further research is required in humans, some studies suggest that lemons may also aid in weight loss. It has been discovered in studies that antioxidants play a crucial role in maintaining good health and can help safeguard the body against chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and obesity.
Prevent diabetes
It's interesting to note that certain studies indicate that green tea has the potential to enhance blood sugar control and provide protection against type 2 diabetes. Consistent tea consumption may also aid in reducing inflammation and improving blood circulation which, in turn, supports the body's insulin effectiveness. Insulin is the hormone responsible for moving sugar from the bloodstream into the cells.
A study of 92 people with type 2 diabetes found that taking green tea extract for 16 weeks reduced insulin resistance, potentially improving blood sugar control.
Enhance the cardiovascular health
Research has found that both green tea and lemon are associated with several heart health benefits. In fact, one review suggests that citrus flavonoids, including those found in lemons, may suppress inflammation, improve blood vessel function and support healthy cholesterol levels.
Meanwhile, according to another study, people who consumed lemons daily had reduced blood pressure levels, especially when they also walked regularly.
It has been found that regular consumption of green tea may reduce the risk of heart disease, heart attack, and stroke. A total of nine studies analyzed the effects of green tea and concluded that it offers a protective effect against these conditions. Furthermore, a recent review of 24 studies found that drinking green tea may also help to lower blood pressure, which is a significant risk factor for heart disease. Both systolic and diastolic blood pressure can be reduced with green tea consumption.
Improve brain function and performance
Although further research is required in humans, various studies suggest that green tea and lemon could potentially offer some benefits for brain health. A review of eight studies found that drinking green tea was linked with a reduced risk of dementia and cognitive decline.
Additionally, some test-tube and animal studies have discovered that certain compounds present in citrus fruits may reduce inflammation, protect brain function, and prevent plaque buildup in the brain, which could potentially contribute to Alzheimer's disease.
Enhance the immunity and resistance
Lemons are a rich source of vitamin C, which can help reduce inflammation and prevent infections. Additionally, green tea contains EGCG, which is known to improve immune function.
Energize the body
Green tea is a natural source of caffeine, a central nervous system stimulant known for boosting energy levels. If you're sensitive to the effects of high doses of caffeine, green tea with lemon could be a better choice than coffee or energy drinks as it contains less caffeine.
Prevent kidney stones
Kidney stones are hard minerals that can form in the kidneys and cause symptoms such as pain, nausea and frequent urination. Drinking green tea with lemon is a great way to help prevent kidney stones from forming.
In fact, one large study found that drinking green tea was associated with a reduced risk of developing kidney stones, especially in men. The citric acid found in lemons can also help prevent kidney stones by increasing urine output and binding to calcium oxalate. This prevents the accumulation of crystals that lead to kidney stone formation.
According to one review, consuming just 4 ounces (118 mL) of lemon juice per day may be beneficial for treating kidney stones.
Help to prevent cancer diseases
Green tea and lemon are both known for their anti-cancer properties. Research has shown that specific compounds found in lemons may help prevent the growth and spread of cancer cells, including those associated with lung, stomach, esophageal, and breast cancers.
Similarly, studies have found that green tea consumption is linked to a reduced risk of certain types of cancer, including bladder, breast, colorectal, and prostate cancers.
Keep you hydrated
Drinking green tea with lemon can be a great way to stay hydrated. Hydration is essential for almost every aspect of health, especially skin health, weight control, brain function, digestive health, and kidney function.
Drinking enough of this drink every day can even help prevent certain diseases, including kidney stones, headaches, and constipation.
How to have a nutritious cup of green tea with lemon?
Making green tea with lemon at home is very simple. To start, you just need to boil about 200 ml of water and let it cool for 2-3 minutes before pouring it into the cup.
Next, add green tea (bag or leaf form) and steep for 1-3 minutes. Finally, add some fresh lemon juice to the tea cup with a dose of about half a lemon.
You can also enhance the flavor by adding other ingredients such as honey, cinnamon, ginger or fresh mint.
Enjoy 3–5 cups a day to stay hydrated and maximize the potential health benefits of green tea with lemon.