10 Things Green Tea May Do for Your Body

Green tea is arguably one of the most famous superfoods out there, but how much do you know about what’s in your cup?

Green tea is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinesis plant, just like all other nonherbal teas. Unlike black and oolong (wulong) teas, though, green tea is less processed, as it’s made using steam-dry methods. The delicate processing techniques are thought to be among the reasons why green tea is so rich in nutrients and antioxidants — all of which may lead to a range of health benefits. In fact, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), green tea has been used in Chinese and Japanese medicine practices for centuries.

While you’ve probably heard a lot of chatter about the benefits of green tea, the NCCIH points out that much of the evidence isn’t conclusive, and more studies are needed. Megan Casper, RDN, a New York City–based dietitian, notes another key caveat: “Many studies of green tea use green tea extract, which can be much stronger than your average at-home brew.”

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The potential health benefits of green tea can also vary based on the brand you choose, as well as the way you make it, says Casper. “Hot tea [may] have more antioxidants, since iced tea usually uses [fewer] tea bags and is watered down,” she says, “but tea that is cold-brewed over the course of a few hours has similar amounts of antioxidants as hot tea.” Decaffeinated brands of green tea may also not pack as many benefits because processing can take away the antioxidants.

Newer to the scene and also being talked up for its potential benefits is matcha green tea. Matcha is made from ground whole green tea leaves mixed with freshly boiled water. Casper says this preparation boosts this green tea’s antioxidant content, as well as its caffeine content.

Learn more about the possible health benefits of green tea and how this popular drink can help complement a healthy diet and lifestyle.