Green Tea Pills: What You Need to Know

I love green tea. I like having a few warm cups during the afternoon and evening hours; it contains less caffeine and has a more calming affect on me. I know there are many health benefits to it, as well, which is one of the main reasons I drink it. However, I know there are many people out there that do not like the taste of green tea, or any tea for that matter. For these people, there are other options for getting the same health benefits, without having to force down a drink. Green tea supplements are gaining popularity, and there are a few types, from green tea pills to green powdered tea extract, which can be used easily.

Although green tea has been consumed for thousands of years in Asia and other parts of the world, it has become popular in Europe and North America in the last few decades. Celebrities such as Oprah and Gwyneth Paltrow have sang it’s praises, and I can even swing by Starbucks to pick up a cup. But again, many people don’t like the taste, so it’s no wonder that green tea extracts have become very popular in the health and fitness industry.

There are a few different options to choose from: powder, green tea capsules, and green tea oil; the oil is generally used topically to treat skin irritations and protect against damage. Capsules are the most convenient option for getting all the benefits of tea, and great for those “on the go” people; it’s as simple as adding it into a daily vitamin regime and forgetting about it.

Some of the touted benefits of green tea include improved cardiovascular health, brain function, and the ability to fight off cancer cells. Whether its brewed or taken as a supplement regularly, it could help defend against many age-related diseases, such as Alzheimer’s.

Tea leaves are packed with polyphenols such as catechins, which act as antioxidants. Antioxidants help fight free radicals which can damage cells and DNA. Free radicals play a huge role in aging and also the development and advancement of certain diseases. One of the most powerful antioxidants in tea is known as EGCG. This has been shown to help fight disease and even weaken or kill cancer cells. EGCG is one of the main components that make green tea so beneficial.

There has been recent speculation that green tea also helps with weight loss, which is one reason that green tea supplements have become so popular. While there is conflicting research, there is evidence that EGCG may help with weight reduction. EGCG is thought to be one reason why green tea can contribute to a healthy weight, because this antioxidant helps boost the metabolism. Any boost in metabolism is sure to help with maintaining weight and increasing energy.

Matcha! Certain matcha brands have been found to contain very high levels of EGCG; in fact, 137 times higher then those found in a cup of brewed tea. The powder is pretty potent, but also still needs to be mixed into a drink, which can be unappealing to many. However, the good news is that there are options to purchase matcha capsules so avoid having to take time to mix and drink it.

Green tea pills provide all the wonderful benefits of tea leaves without having to mix it and drink it. They are also caffeine free, which is great for anyone who is sensitive to caffeine. There are few ways they are made, but the high quality supplements will be made with green tea leaves that are dried, crushed, and deposited right into a capsule. Less quality pills are not created with the whole leaves. With lower quality pills, the tea is brewed and the catechins are extracted and used to create the capsule. This process reduces the potency of the antioxidants and makes for a less effective pill.

Green tea pills and powders can be found in almost any drugstore or supermarket. However, this is something I would recommend splurging on a little. High-quality green tea supplements can be found in natural food stores like Whole Foods, or ordered directly on Amazon. There are also a wide range of websites specifically devoted to vitamins and supplements, such as Puritan’s Pride and GNC.A quality pill will have natural, organic sources and be produces directly from dried leaves. It will also be below the daily recommended amount of catechins. Some supplements have excessive amounts of catechins, and this could actually be dangerous if used too often or if too much is taken at once.

Supplements are generally considered to be safe for adults, when used as directed. Some people just don’t agree with them; it can cause a stomachache, constipation, headaches, nausea, or dizziness. According to WebMD, there have been some rare cases of liver failure associated with over consumption of green tea extracts. There is also a danger of interactions with certain medications, antibiotics, and some birth controls; it’s a good idea to check out the list of interactions before starting supplements.

Women who are pregnant or nursing are advised to speak with a physician before starting any pill or powder regimen. While small amounts of brewed tea are considered safe, it may be too much in extract form. In any case, it’s probably a good idea to discuss starting any supplement regimen with a doctor.

In general, green tea is considered very safe to drink or take daily. It’s hard to say no to something that is so rich in health benefits, especially when there are such convenient ways to get these wonderful benefits; I for one won’t be giving up my green tea habit anytime soon!