Oxidation happens everywhere from piece of potato turning brownish color to rust in a machine. This is a common activity that also takes place inside a human body. Our body takes care of oxidation well, but occasionally it causes cell damage. The damaged cells are known as free radicals. They are molecules with unpaired electron. Because it is unpaired, it will try to take an electron from another molecule. Once this action gets intense, it can cause many medical problems like cancer, heart problems and arthritis. Pollution, radiation and cigarette smoke add to the creation of free radicals as well. Antioxidants are substances that counteract free radicals.
By supplying an electron to free radicals, antioxidants prevent cell damage. It is crucial to eat meals that offer antioxidants on a daily basis to stay in good health. Lots of veggies and fruits are a great supply of antioxidants thanks to vitamins E and C. The vitamins are known to be one of the best antioxidants. Vegetables and fruit such as strawberry, kiwi, papaya, spinach, bell pepper, and broccoli are a great supply of vitamin C and E. But these vitamins are not the only supply of antioxidants and actually they are certainly not the most effective source.
A lot more nutritionists agree with the fact that Epigallocatechin or often called EGCG may be a much stronger supply of antioxidants than vitamins C and E. Many research workers agree that EGCG is 100 times more beneficial than vitamin C and 25 times more efficient compared to vitamin E in reducing free radicals. EGCG is a material contained in tea. A few of the acknowledged green tea extract benefits are preventions against depression, heart problems, cancer, weight gain and bad cholesterol.
There have been many laboratory examinations regarding the effects of green tea on cancer cells. The results suggest the dose of 300mg of EGCG daily to be the best amount. One cup offers around 100mg of EGCG. Far more studies are in the process; however as for now 3 cups every day looks like a ideal amount.
At this time there are a variety of methods to consume green tea. Common way is to make and to drink the hot tea. This is good way especially when consumed with meals. One additional preferred way is to mix green tea powder with water. Blending citrus juice with EGCG has been identified to boost the positive effects. An easy way is to consume tea pills. This will work for individuals not liking the flavor.
