While you may frequently consider how the foods and beverages you consume effects your body, it’s important to remember that your diet also plays a crucial role in the health of your brain. Frequently consuming processed foods, for example, may increase your risk of age-related diseases. But on the flip side, there are also plenty of ways to nourish both your body and your brain with mood, memory, and focus-boosting options. That includes one popular morning beverage: green tea.
To learn more about how drinking green tea on a regular basis can help give your brain health a boost, we spoke to Dr. David Seitz, Medical Director at Ascendant Detox. He told us that this antioxidant-rich beverage can reduce stress, improve focus, protect your brain from age-related decline, and more. Find all of his expert insight below!
Brain-boosting benefits of green tea
Green tea isn't only a delicious way to start your day. It's also packed with health benefits, especially when it comes to your brain (and it can even help you lose weight!). Here are just a few of the brain-boosting benefits of this hot beverage:
- Reduce stress and improve mood - Dr. Seitz explains that green tea is a good source of L-theanine, which is an amino acid that can make a major difference in your mood and stress levels (and help you sleep better). "L-theanine helps increase the activity of GABA, a neurotransmitter in the brain that helps regulate mood, focus, memory, and other cognitive processes," he tells us. Additionally, it can give you a boost of serotonin and dopamine, which he notes are "known as happy hormones because they can help improve mood and make you feel calmer, more relaxed, and happier."
- Prevent age-related decline - In addition to L-theanine, green tea is packed with plant compounds called polyphenols, which offer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help keep your brain healthy and sharp. "These polyphenols can help protect the brain from oxidative stress and damage due to free radicals, which are known to be a major contributor to age-related cognitive decline," he explains.
- Improve focus - Another benefit of green tea is the fact that it can give you a bit of a caffeine boost, which Dr. Seitz notes can help improve your alertness and focus.
"Together, these compounds make green tea an excellent option for promoting brain health," Dr. Seitz concludes.
READ MORE: Why People Who Drink This Tea Everyday Have A Stronger Immune System
The bottom line
All in all, green tea is a great option when it comes to improving cognitive function and boosting your mood. However, it's important to remember that no one food or beverage can be a miracle worker.
"These brain-boosting benefits of green tea are most effective when combined with a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and plenty of rest," Dr. Seitz reminds us. (Read more about the importance of sleepf or weight loss here.) You should also keep in mind that moderation is key, and too much caffeine can have adverse effects. But when combined with other help habits, drinking a cup of green tea in the morning is a great way to go!
