When most of us think of green tea, we always think of the most well known benefits of drinking green tea, namely assisting the immune system in the prevention of colds during the winter months because of its high level of antioxidants.

Another one of the possible benefits of drinking green tea is its potential as a cancer preventive. One of the main ingredients in green tea is catechin, and studies performed at the National Cancer Institute in Tokyo have shown that catechin use lowers the incidence of cancer by more than 50% if consumed in sufficient quantities. This is linked to both the catechin as well as the antioxidants that are found in green tea, and since the Japanese customarily drink at least two to three cups of green tea per day, and the cancer rate is lower in Japan, the link is established.

The benefits of drinking green tea also include its potential to restrict the excessive build up of the "bad" cholesterol. This function is also performed because of the catechin that is the main ingredient in green tea. Other benefits of drinking green tea include one or more of the following:

• Controlling high blood pressure
• Lowering blood pressure
• Suppressing aging
• Refreshing the body
• Deterring food poisoning
• Preventing and treating skin disease
• Preventing cavities
• Fighting viruses
• Acting as a bio-regulatory food

A better understanding of these health benefits can help a person make an informed choice. Incorporate more green tea into your diet and you may reap the same benefits!