Surprisingly, there is a best time of the day to drink green tea for maximum health benefits. Having your favorite tea at the right time might help you kickstart a healthy lifestyle and promote wellness.
Some individuals feel that drinking green tea first thing in the morning improves brain function. But when is the best time to drink green tea?
In this post, we will discuss the health benefits of this beverage and the best time of day to drink green tea.
Many people enjoy a steaming cup of green tea throughout the day. The drink is well-known for its numerous health advantages and pleasant herbaceous and vegetal flavors.
But what is best time to drink green tea to maximize its benefits? Surprisingly, when you drink the beverage, it may alter your ability to reap the benefits and your likelihood of experiencing certain unfavorable side effects.
Benefits Of Drinking Green Tea
Green tea is a type of tea produced from Camellia sinensis leaves and buds. The tea is thought to have originated in China.
Green tea contains a polyphenol known as a catechin(1). These are antioxidants that help prevent cell damage and provide other health benefits. The most well-known and abundant catechin in green tea is epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), which has been linked to improved health and disease markers in studies.
Because of the abundance of the catechin, EGCG, the tea is known to help with obesity, cancer, diabetes, heart disease, brain and skin health. It also has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties. Green tea is also high in vitamins and minerals.
Next, we discuss when should you drink green tea for optimal health benefits.
Understanding The Timing
Many people ask us: when to drink green tea, at night or morning? The time of day you drink your green tea is determined by personal preference and the benefits desired. While some individuals prefer to drink it in the morning or before working out to reap the health advantages, others may find it more convenient at other times.
Green tea contains L-theanine and caffeine, which helps boost alertness and attentiveness, which is especially useful in the morning. Therefore, the best time to drink green tea to improve brain health is in the morning or 1 to 2 hours after meals, in the early afternoon.
The Morning Ritual: Benefits Of Morning Tea
Sipping a cup of green tea first thing in the morning is one of the best times to enjoy the beverage. Green tea contains L-theanine, the amino acid that keeps you awake and focused, preparing you for the day ahead.
Drinking green tea in the morning benefits the mind(2). Green tea, as a mild stimulant, can help you concentrate better. If you do not like yourself early in the morning, brew a cup of green tea to perk yourself up and boost your productivity.
Benefits of Afternoon Tea
Green tea contains antibacterial and antiviral properties that can help protect you from the common cold, flu, and other upper respiratory diseases. A cup of green tea about 1-2 hours after breakfast or lunch is an excellent way to enhance immunity. Green tea has also been proven to help with digestion and soothe the stomach, making it an ideal afternoon tea.
Mixing a tablespoon or two of matcha green tea powder into your smoothies or post-workout snack is a great way to enjoy the benefits of green tea in the afternoon. Additionally, drinking this tea before exercise may enhance fat-burning and decrease muscle injury.
Evening Relaxation: Benefits of Evening Green Tea
Green tea may help you relax and unwind in the evening. L-theanine is a natural stress reliever and relaxant. According to several research studies, the compound appears to promote alpha-wave production in the human brain, signaling a state of relaxation. L-theanine alleviates both mental and physical stress.
Take a tea break, focus on your breathing, and practice yoga the next time you're stressed. You may even participate in physical activity because sports help people unwind, dwell on other things, and let go of their worries.
The Nighttime Dilemma: Should You Drink Green Tea Before Bed?
Green tea contains a small amount of caffeine, which can disrupt sleep and induce insomnia by promoting brain activity. Aside from that, drinking additional fluids before bed can exacerbate discomfort and frequent trips to the restroom.
As a result, it is essential to take green tea in moderation and to limit the amount consumed directly before bedtime or at least 2-3 hours before bedtime. You can even opt for caffeine-free herbal teas, like chamomile and ashwagandha.
FAQs About The Best Time To Drink Green Tea
How Many Cups Of Green Tea Can I Drink In A Day?
Green tea consumption of 8 cups or fewer daily is considered safe for most adults. However, there are dangers associated with drinking excessive amounts of green tea, particularly as an extract.
Can I Have Green Tea When I'm Feeling Stressed Or Anxious?
The green brew relaxes the mind—Theanine, an amino acid present in green tea leaves, aids in relaxation and stress reduction. According to studies, theanine can also help with anxiety.
Can I Drink Green Tea In Empty Stomach?
If taken on an empty stomach, green tea may cause irritation. Eat a light snack or breakfast before drinking green tea first thing in the morning.
Key Takeaways
Timing can be crucial when it comes to reaping the advantages of green tea. The best time to drink green tea is determined mainly by personal preference. However, some compounds in green tea can prevent iron and other mineral absorption, so it's better to consume it between meals. Furthermore, consuming coffee before bedtime can cause trouble sleeping.
References
- Green Tea Extracts Epigallocatechin-3-gallate for Different Treatments, (1)https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5572593/
- Green tea effects on cognition, mood and human brain function: A systematic review, (2)https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28899506/
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