This Tasty Beverage Can Help Fend Off Viruses, Boost Your Memory, and Kick-Start Your Metabolism
Cold season is officially upon us. If you’re worried about getting sick right before the holidays, fear not. You probably already have a powerful wellness tool in your cupboard: green tea. This revitalizing drink is brimming with compounds that boost immunity, reverse brain aging, and more! It’s high in antioxidants, flavonoids, and minerals that will keep you feeling in tip-top shape. Not a fan of the taste? We’ve got recipes that will make you a convert! Keep reading to find out what green tea can do for you.
Fend Off Viruses
Green tea brims with EGCG, a potent compound that blocks the actions of enzymes that help viruses like COVID multiply. That’s why Indian investigators advise drinking three to four cups daily to protect against infection. Separate research suggests green tea reduces the risk of falling ill by 68 percent.
Safeguard Memory
Sipping green tea daily can ward off memory decline and add four healthy years to your life, according to researchers at the Cleveland Clinic. Their study found that compounds in the sip called flavonoids prevent plaque buildup to reduce the risk of dementia by 50 percent.
Kick-Start Metabolism
Three mugs of the brew daily can double weight loss on any diet plan. Investigators reporting in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition say that’s because polyphenols in the brew increase the activity of fat-burning enzymes. Tip: Add a squeeze of lemon to boost absorption by 80 percent.
Lime-Mint Refresher
- 2 limes, cut into wedges
- 4 sprigs fresh mint
- 4 green tea bags
In large pitcher, combine all of the ingredients with 4 cups boiling water. Stir, and then chill. Makes 4 servings. Fun fact: Nutrients in limes boost mood by 40 percent in two days!
Rosemary- Pepper Reset
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
- 4 green tea bags
- 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 teaspoons of peppercorns
In large pitcher with four cups of boiling water, add lemon, tea bags, rosemary, and peppercorns. Stir mixture until flavors are blended. Chill for two hours. Makes 4 servings. Fun fact: Rosemary can chase away brain fog for two hours!
Lemon-Ginger Soother
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
- 1 small knob ginger, peeled, thinly sliced
- 1/4 tsp. ground turmeric
- 4 green tea bags
Squeeze lemon into large pitcher. Add remaining ingredients and 4 cups boiling water. Steep 3 minutes. Makes 4 servings. Fun fact: Ginger’s compounds speed cold recovery by 55 percent!
A version of this article originally appeared in our print magazine, First for Women.
