Good News For Smokers: The Leaf Can Help You (revised)

(Submitted to Anna Lim via email, as part of the requirements of the job as content writer- 02105)

By: Granny's Mettle

Since ancient times, the Chinese have known of the medical benefits found in green tea. From headaches to depression, they have been using the leaf to treat illnesses and diseases. In fact, it was known that green tea was used as medicine in China for at least 4,000 years.

In the United States, green tea continues to grow in popularity amongst the health conscious, as well as those who wants to be one, because of its vast medical effects. Scientific research suggests that green tea extract is a rich natural source of antioxidants that help protect the body from accelerated ageing and increased risk of major diseases.

According to medical journals, green tea is rich in catechu polyphenols that are considered as powerful antioxidants. These antioxidants provide protection from life-threatening diseases like cancer. Besides inhibiting the growth of cancer cells, it also kills the cancer cells without harming healthy tissues in the body. It has also been affective in lowering cholesterol levels, and reduces the abnormal formation of blood clots.

Aside from the medical benefits, did you know that green tea also reduces the effects of cigarette smoking? This is good news indeed for smokers out there!

Studies have shown that cigarette smokers who drink up to six cups of green tea a day suffer 40 to 50 percent less damage from the toxins caused by cigarette smoke. By reducing the toxins, potential diseases associated with smoking-- cancer, emphysema, and cardiovascular disease, among others—will be substantially lowered.Another interesting information about green tea is that it hastens the discharge of nicotine from the body. With less nicotine, less likely that you would be suffering from an adrenaline rush which causes rapid heartbeat, increased blood pressure, and rapid, shallow breathing— all symptoms of an increased incidence of heart attack and stroke.

Here are some information on the effects of green tea to other illnesses related to cigarette smoking:

• Esophageal Cancer- In 1994, the Journal of the National Cancer Institute reported a lowered risk of esophageal cancer by those who drank green tea. The study conducted on women indicated that those who drank green tea were protected from the cancer compared to those who did not. It was also concluded that the more the women drank, the more protected they become. The study was conducted in different locations and used medical records of patients aged 30-74 years old who were diagnosed with esophageal cancer.

• Lung Cancer- In a 1996 issue of Fundamental & Applied Toxicology, it was reported that mice bred to develop lung tumors were protected against lung cancer by green tea. Researchers found out that mice that has green tea added to their daily diet developed fewer or no lung cancer tumors compared to those who did not have green tea in their diet.

Exposure to pollution, smoking and excess sunlight increases our susceptibility to ageing and illnesses. With the antioxidants found in green tea, we have much to thank for because not only does green tea promote good health, but also makes us look younger and healthier.

So drink up and protect yourself. The leaf may just save your life especially if you are a smoker!