Does Green Tea have Caffeine

Tea lovers throughout the world tout the benefits of drinking a cup of green tea a day.

One of the benefits of drinking tea is that it contains less caffeine than coffee, however, there tends to be a major misconception regarding green tea lacking caffeine.

Many people believe it does not contain the addictive agent.

So does green tea have caffeine?

The answer is YES.

Green tea comes from the same plant as black tea, thus it contains caffeine.

What’s the difference, you may ask?

The difference boils down to which part of the plant was used and how it was processed.

The good news is that green tea only contains about 25-45mg of caffeine compared to up to 70mg in black tea or 95-200mg in coffee.

For those who are trying to cut back on caffeine, green tea is definitely a good alternative.

Tips for avoiding maximum amounts of caffeine in green tea: 

– Use loose-leaf tea rather than tea bags.

– Avoid Coffee-House teas, which tend to be heavier in caffeine.

– Avoid shade-grown teas, as they tend to have a higher caffeine content.

– Brew tea at a lower water temperature. Simmer, don’t boil.

-Choose decaf blends (decaf will not be caffeine-free, but will contain small amounts of caffeine).

-Avoid Matcha, a powdered green tea that is dissolved into water.

Why Should I drink Green Tea?

Antioxidants

It is widely known that green tea contains antioxidants, and they are your friend! From boosting the immune system against common infections, to reducing the risk of cancer, antioxidants are invaluable.

While this is not a proven cure or preventative for cancer, it is safe to say that a healthy immune system properly supported by antioxidants will function better than an immune system of an individual with an unhealthy lifestyle that does not get a regular dose of antioxidants.

That being said, antioxidants are fantastic and should be consumed in any way possible, so drink up!

Caffeine

Wait a minute?

Didn’t we just discuss how to avoid caffeine?

Well, yes, but that doesn’t mean caffeine is altogether a bad thing.

However, in small doses, caffeine can be a good thing.

It can improve your sense of alertness without causing the jittery feeling that often times comes with an espresso, which is perfect for getting over that mid-day slump at the office.

Anti-Ageing

As if the immune system boost and small caffeine boost weren’t reason enough to drink at least one cup a day, green tea also helps reduce signs of skin aging, such as damage from the sun, wrinkles, and expression lines.

Remember those antioxidants we talked about? They’re saving the day in the wrinkle department, too!

Anti-inflammatory

Green tea contains catechin polyphenols, which give anti-inflammatory benefits.

As a result, it is often suggested that people with inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis include green tea in their daily diet.

So is Green Tea a Miracle Beverage?

While it may be a bit of a stretch to deem green tea as a miracle drink, it is quite tasty and incredibly healthful.

Just be careful to not counteract the health benefits by loading your cup up with sugar or other sweeteners.

Also, go light on the milk or creamers as too much may reduce the health benefits. Now go find your favorite mug and get to brewing!