6 reasons to drink more green tea this morning

Research says green tea can cut heart disease. But it can do much more.

According to new research, just one cup of green tea a day could lower the risk of heart disease and premature death.

The study, conducted by Japanese researchers, analysed readings of more than 90,000 people aged 40 to 69 over four years and found that the more green tea they drank, the less likely they were to die from heart disease, stroke and respiratory disease. It is thought that green tea, which is high in antioxidants called polyphenols, helps regulate blood pressure and body fat.But if heart disease isn’t enough of a lure to drink green tea, hopefully these other six reasons may persuade you to go grab a cup. 

Catch out calories

Worried you’re not burning enough calories in the gym? Supplement your session with a brew. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found the catechins in green tea boost metabolism and increase your calorie burn by up to 4%. Much more civilised than the sugar-laced pre-workout buzz you’re used to.

A carnivore’s cuppa

Steak is one of the best muscle-building foods around. But lots of red meat requires suitable nutritional offsetting. A Chinese study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine discovered the antioxidants in green tea lower harmful LDL cholesterol and reduce your heart attack risk by 11%. Now listen to that sirloin sizzle, guilt-free.

Beat the effects of booze

Heading straight from business to bar takes its toll on more than your bank balance. But you can offset your fondness for a post-work pint with this herbal hangover cure. The polyphenols in green tea can help prevent liver disease, according to the University of Maryland. We’ll drink to that.

Performance-enhancer in a pot

Sick of suffering from early stitches and cramping muscles? Put the kettle on before your next big run (taking a thermos is a bit much). The American Journal of Physiology found this herbal EPO equivalent increases your exercise endurance by up to 24%. Think of it like a packet of fluorescent energy gel, minus the sticky fingers.

Sip yourself younger

If too many trips to the costa del sunbed have left your skin looking leathery, boiling up a brew could be the solution. The British Journal of Nutrition found the antioxidants in green tea help make your skin more resistant to ultraviolet radiation, stopping wrinkles in their tracks. Now all you’ve got to worry about is explaining tan lines in mid-winter.

Dodge the doghouse

Forgetfulness can land you in trouble with the boss. Or, worse, your girlfriend. Stay clear of slip-ups around your anniversary by making green tea your afternoon pick-me-up. According to researchers at the University of Basel in Switzerland, increasing your intake perks up your brain and can help to enhance your memory.