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AutoImmune Problems soothed by Green tea |
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Recent research indicates that green tea is beneficial in autoimmune
disorders, more specifically for Sjogren's syndrome, which damages the
glands that produce tears and saliva. Green tea has been in use for its
satisfying taste as well as its health benefits for well over 4000
years.
The animal study by Medical College of Georgia, School of Dentistry,
found significantly less salivary gland damage in a group treated with
green tea extract, suggesting a reduction of the Sjogren's symptom
commonly referred to as dry mouth. Stephen Hsu who led the study stated
"Since it is an autoimmune disease, Sjogren's syndrome causes the body
to attack itself and produce extra antibodies that mistakenly target
the salivary and lacrimal glands,"
The possible benefit in autoimmune disorders is
another benefit now being added to the list of reasons to be happy to
drink green tea. Green tea is a rich source of anti oxidants a group of
chemicals that science is finding to be very important in a range of
health problems including prevention of cancer, protection from heart
disease, inhibiting tooth decay and promoting a long life. Previous
research in the University of Kansas has found that one of the main
antioxidants in green tea is 100 times more powerful than vitamin C and
25 times more potent than vitamin E.
Green tea is very safe to use however it does
contain caffeine which some people would prefer to avoid. Green tea
supplements are much lower in caffeine and may be considered useful by
those wanting to lower caffeine intake. Green tea leaf should not be
taken directly by those on anticoagulant drugs as it contains high
levels of vitamin K which may interact with the medication. A cup of
brewed green tea or the green tea supplements however contain virtually
none and may be used with out side effects.
So lets go and have a nice cup of tea.
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