In recent years, green tea has been gaining ground over other infusions. Between myths and truths about its benefits (or about the supposed prejudice of other drinks, such as milk), little by little this tea became popular all over the world, becoming one of the most consumed beverages worldwide.

Coming from the Camellia sinensis plant (a shrub that does not exceed one and a half meters in height), the Chinese, aware of its many positive effects on health , have ingested it for more than 3000 years.

But there are also those who are just discovering it and wondering what green tea is for . Here, its main health benefits .

Health benefits of green tea

Unlike black tea, green tea is not exposed to an oxidation process. In general, the fresh leaves of the plant are taken, dried in the sun or with hot air (this stops their fermentation), they are pressed and then they are ground or crushed.

Being a type of tea less manipulated by man and not fermented, it is the healthiest (even more so than black tea).Much studied by scientists and nutritionists, it is increasingly known more healthy properties, from aesthetic care, such as reducing cellulite, to essential factors such as the prevention of certain types of cancer or cardiovascular problems.

The explanation lies in the fact that green tea is a rich source of polyphenols that protect against cardiovascular diseases and their risk factors, including high blood pressure and dyslipidemia (the increase in the plasma concentration of cholesterol and lipids in the blood). It is a natural regulator of blood sugar levels. It is also an excellent antioxidant, boosts the immune system, helps lower anxiety levels and improves concentration and memory.

Regularly drinking three or more cups of green tea per day (ideally 6-8 cups daily) can have different health benefits

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How to prepare vede tea

As it is an infusion that can be taken hot or cold, the ideal is to prepare it in the morning, leave it in the refrigerator and drink it during the day. Of course, do not leave it overnight because you lose nutrients. It is also very important to take care of the water temperature, which should not exceed 80 °.For a cup, heat 20 cl of water to 80 or 85º C, no more. It is a little colder than black tea water, whose water is heated to less than 100ºC.

Place about 5 grams of tea per cup. Good quality green tea is key at this point. In the market (supermarkets, dietetics and specialized houses) there is a wide variety of options. It can be in strands or in bags.

Let rest 3 minutes and taste it. To drink it following the tradition, you do not have to add sugar. It is taken bitter.

Another very famous alternative these times is also matcha tea, considered a "superfood" for its health benefits. In powder form, it is nothing other than the concentrated green tea leaves themselves. Widely used in gastronomy, it is usually drunk hot and sparkling, but it is also consumed in different smoothies and can be used in stews, soups and sauces. Being a powder, it has many possibilities.