Green tea extract has gained popularity in recent years for its numerous health benefits. One of the benefits of green tea extract is its ability to help control blood sugar and inflammation.

This article will explore the science behind green tea extract and its positive effects on blood sugar and inflammation.

What is green tea extract?

Green tea extract is a concentrated form of green tea. It is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, which is native to China and Southeast Asia.

The process of making green tea extract involves steeping the leaves of the plant in alcohol or another solvent, then evaporating the liquid to leave behind a concentrated extract.

Green tea extract is a rich source of polyphenols, which are a group of compounds that have powerful antioxidant properties.

Antioxidants help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can cause damage to cells and contribute to the development of chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.

Blood sugar control

Green tea extract has been shown to help regulate blood sugar levels in several ways. One of the ways it does this is by inhibiting the activity of enzymes that break down carbohydrates and sugars in the body.

By slowing down the breakdown of these compounds, green tea extract can help prevent sharp spikes in blood sugar levels that can occur after consuming a meal high in carbohydrates.

In addition to its effect on carbohydrate breakdown, green tea extract has also been shown to increase insulin sensitivity in the body.

Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels by allowing glucose to enter cells where it can be used for energy. Insulin resistance, which occurs when the body becomes less responsive to insulin, is a hallmark of type 2 diabetes. By increasing insulin sensitivity, green tea extract can help reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Inflammation control

Inflammation is a natural response of the body to injury or infection. However, chronic inflammation can contribute to the development of numerous chronic diseases, including heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.

Green tea extract has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the risk of these diseases.

One of the ways in which green tea extract reduces inflammation is by inhibiting the activity of enzymes that produce inflammatory compounds in the body.

These compounds, known as cytokines, can cause inflammation and contribute to the development of chronic diseases. By inhibiting the activity of these enzymes, green tea extract can help reduce inflammation and the risk of chronic diseases.

How to use green tea extract

Green tea extract is available in supplement form at health food stores and online. The recommended dosage of green tea extract varies depending on the specific product being used.

It is important to follow the dosage instructions on the product label and to consult with a healthcare provider before using green tea extract, especially if taking medication or if pregnant or breastfeeding.

In addition to supplements, green tea can also be consumed as a beverage. Drinking green tea several times per day may provide similar benefits to taking a green tea extract supplement.

It is important to note that green tea contains caffeine, which can cause side effects in some people.

Conclusion

Green tea extract is a rich source of antioxidants and has numerous health benefits, including its ability to help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce inflammation.

By inhibiting the activity of enzymes that break down carbohydrates and sugars, green tea extract can help prevent sharp spikes in blood sugar levels. In addition, by increasing insulin sensitivity and reducing the production of inflammatory compounds in the body, green tea extract can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and heart disease.