What are the functions and effects of green tea?

Sep 12, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, the main functions and benefits of green tea include antioxidant effects, refreshing the mind, promoting digestion, protecting teeth, and diuretic and fatigue-relieving properties. When drinking green tea, it is not advisable to consume overly concentrated tea, as this may irritate the stomach or cause nervous excitement. It is also not recommended to drink green tea on an empty stomach to avoid damaging the gastric mucosa. Additionally, consumption should be reduced before bedtime to prevent disruption of sleep quality.

Generally speaking, the main functions and benefits of green tea include antioxidant effects, refreshing the mind, promoting digestion, protecting teeth, diuretic effects, and relieving fatigue. A detailed explanation is as follows:

1. Antioxidant

Green tea is rich in tea polyphenols, a component that can remove excess free radicals in the body. Free radicals can damage cells, and moderate consumption of green tea may reduce this damage, providing some protection for the body and helping maintain normal physiological functions.

2. Refreshing the Mind

The caffeine in green tea can stimulate the central nervous system, helping to improve concentration and reaction speed. When people feel tired or mentally sluggish, moderate consumption of green tea can alleviate drowsiness, keep one alert, and enhance efficiency at work or study.

3. Promoting Digestion

Green tea contains certain amounts of caffeine and theophylline, which can stimulate gastric juice secretion and enhance gastrointestinal motility. For discomfort such as bloating caused by indigestion or dyspepsia, moderate consumption of green tea may provide some relief and help improve digestive function.

4. Protecting Teeth

Green tea contains fluoride, an essential element for maintaining dental health, which can strengthen teeth against cavities and reduce the risk of tooth erosion. Meanwhile, the tea polyphenols in green tea can also inhibit the growth of certain harmful bacteria in the mouth, helping to maintain oral hygiene.

5. Diuretic and Fatigue Relief

The caffeine and theophylline in green tea can act on the kidneys, promoting kidney metabolism and increasing urine excretion. Urination helps eliminate excess water and metabolic waste from the body, while also relieving physical fatigue caused by metabolism, making one feel more relaxed.

When drinking green tea, it is not advisable to consume overly strong green tea, to avoid gastrointestinal irritation or nervous system excitation; it is also not recommended on an empty stomach, to prevent damage to the gastric mucosa. Additionally, consumption should be reduced before bedtime to avoid affecting sleep quality.

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