Happy, Healthy Hydration A-Z (Part 3)
We’re working through the A-Z of Happy, Healthy Hydration to give you some ideas and info to use in your day to stay inspired and hydrated. Here’s our G,H & I!
“G” is for GREEN TEA! (of course…)
Well, what can we say? We know green tea is amazing for us, and here are just 5 of our favourite evidence-based health benefits of green tea to get you inspired:
1. Green Tea contains mini “super-heroes”.
Like little super heroes, polyphenols (antioxidants) contained in green tea race around our body bravely protecting our cells and molecules against free-radical damage, and and in turn, help to prevent a very long list of diseases.
2. Green Tea makes you smarter!
Compounds found in green tea can make you smarter! (We are drinking as much as we can here at She-Tea HQ)
Caffeine found in green tea is effective in increasing the firing of neurons and the concentration of neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine, without causing the jittery side effects that coffee is famous for.
L-theanine is also found in green tea and increases the activity of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA, which has anti-anxiety effects. It also increases dopamine and the production of alpha waves in the brain.
Studies show that caffeine and L-theanine can have synergistic effects. The combination of the two is particularly potent at improving brain function
3. Green Tea increases Fat Burning.
Green tea has been shown to increase fat burning and boost the metabolic rate, in human controlled trials. Combine this with a little exercise and you’re looking good!
4. Green Tea shows HUGE reductions in cancer risk…yes, you read correctly.
Breast cancer: A meta-analysis of observational studies found that women who drank the most green tea had a 22% lower risk of developing breast cancer, the most common cancer in women.
Prostate cancer: One study found that men drinking green tea had a 48% lower risk of developing prostate cancer, which is the most common cancer in men.
Colorectal cancer: A study of 69,710 Chinese women found that green tea drinkers had a 57% lower risk of colorectal cancer.
These are just a few types with a demonstrated efficacy…have a look through the research – it’s quite amazing!
5. Green Tea may reduce Alzheimer’s Disease and Parkison’s Disease…!
The bioactive compounds in green tea can have various protective effects on neurons and may reduce the risk of both Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, the two most common neurodegenerative disorders.
“H” for Hydration
As we get into the colder months, it can be more difficult to keep up the water intake. Thankfully soups are high in fluids! An easy way to get loads of veggies in too.
Throw a bit of quinoa in and boom! Fabulous and filling.
Also- the Green Tea in 3 is delicious in hot water too. The fruits come out even more. Pop some into a thermos and have a tasty, healthy hydration option all day.
“I” is for Inspiration
What inspires you to take care of yourself?
Is it longevity? Is it being able to run around after the kids? Maybe you want to run a marathon, or you just want to look hot.
Whatever it is that gets you going, use it!
It might be a family history of illness that you are wanting to avoid, or maybe losing a few kilo’s to look great for your next birthday. Whatever it is, remind yourself daily of why you’re doing what you’re doing, to keep you on track and pointed towards your goal.
There’s nothing quite like feeling inspired to let you hit your mark!