Caffeine is found occurring naturally and used as an additive to several of the foods we consume throughout the day, including coffee, tea, fizzy drinks and chocolate amongst other products. We often rely on such caffeine- laden products to give us boosts of energy when we are flagging. Many of us struggle to function and get through the day without it.
Caffeine is very difficult to avoid completely as mentioned previously, it does naturally occur in many foods and drinks but when consumed to excess, do you ever stop and wonder whether all that caffeine might be detrimental to your health?
Medical research has recognised that very excessive caffeine consumption, or even moderate caffeine intake in children and some individuals who are more sensitive to the effects of caffeine, may cause caffeine intoxication. Caffeine intoxication symptoms consist of; restlessness, sleep disturbances irritability, nervousness, frequent urination and stomach upsets. And trying to go cold turkey can cause headaches, anxiety and even the shakes.
Studies also suggest that pregnant women, those suffering from high blood pressure, anyone with heart disease, those who have survived a stroke and the elderly should drink caffeine with extreme caution. People who suffer from anxiety disorders or who are caffeine sensitive are much more prone to side-effects. Of course, there are healthier alternatives to getting that much needed energy boost.
Green tea has been used for its medicinal properties for centuries to treat practically everything from headaches to depression. The ancient Chinese herb contains catechin polyphenols like epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) which are antioxidants that can protect the liver from toxins and aid in its normal function.
These antioxidants mop up the harmful free radicals in the body and can help protect against heart ailments, strokes, arthritis, diabetes and degenerative diseases of the nervous system. Theanine, another ingredient in Green tea has a calming effect on the human body, and is known to relieve anxiety and partially neutralize the rise in blood pressure that can occur due to caffeine intake. It is also used to treat an array of skin conditions including acne and eczema.
Green tea does contain Caffeine as with any regular tea, however the amount is so inconsequential that it is unlikely to cause any major side effects and with the vast amount of benefits demonstrated by drinking a daily cuppa of Green tea we really can't think of any better reason to kick the habit and instead, make Green tea your drink of choice.
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