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Green tea is being talked about more often these days. It’s certainly come a long way from when it was found right at the back of a local herbalist store to modern-day times where your local supermarket will have it right there next to the big brands.
So what is the effect of green tea?
It's often discussed as a weight loss promoter, but can it also help to increase testosterone levels?
What is green tea extract?
Green tea is made from a shrub called Camellia Sinensis, and green tea extract is its concentrated form. It’s an evergreen shrub that originated in the southwest forest region of China.
It contains caffeine, which explains why you often see it as an active ingredient in energy drinks. It has a high percentage of catechins, which are plant compounds that are the basis for several potential health benefits, such as weight loss and help with digestion.
Does green tea increase testosterone?
Recent studies have concluded that green tea extract may be great at helping to balance testosterone levels and improve hormone levels if they are low.
It can help promote the functions we associate with testosterone, such as energy and fertility.
The different ways to take green tea
Green tea is available in various forms, and it’s all down to personal preference, but it’s available far more freely nowadays, and there are plenty of options to choose from.
Supplements
Most herbalists sell green tea supplements; you might even find them in your local supermarket. They are designed to be used with a healthy diet and regular exercise.
Tea Bags
The most popular way to absorb green tea extracts into your system is by drinking green tea. They are more popular than ever, and you can find them in your local stores and a vast selection on Amazon.
The taste isn’t for everyone, but if you enjoy drinking green tea, it’s an excellent option to take it in this form.
Face masks
Green tea face masks are promoted for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. It may help with aging and damaged skin as its properties can help to fight bacteria.
Powder
Green tea powder is sold in its purest form as a supplement promoting its antioxidant qualities which can help reduce cell damage. It’s also a great energy booster and contains vitamins, minerals and other nutrients for the skin.
The pros of green tea extract
There are plenty of benefits to taking green tea, and more research seems to uncover more and more. Let’s have a look at the main ones.
It’s great for your heart.
Many people have seen the benefits of drinking green tea alongside an exercise program and a healthy diet. It has excellent anti-inflammatory properties, and the flavonoids in green tea extract can combat oxidative stress and relieve inflammation, which helps reduce plaque buildup in your arteries.
It’s a great energy booster.
The energy boost mostly comes from the caffeine contained in the extract, plus the L-theanine, which helps to slow the body’s absorption of caffeine, making it a slow and sustained release. If used in conjunction with exercise, it can help you push harder for longer, as it boosts fat oxidation during exercise.
It’s good for longevity.
Studies have shown that people who regularly drink green tea could have a lower risk of dying from chronic disease. The antioxidant properties in green tea reduce free radical damage and oxidative stress, which can cause chronic illnesses.
It may aid in weight loss.
Green tea has been shown to increase our metabolic rates temporarily, and the compounds can also help to break down fatty acids. A Journal of Research in Medical Sciences study showed that four cups of green tea daily decreased body weight.
It’s good for the brain.
A 2016 study found that green tea lowered the risk of neurodegenerative diseases and cognitive impairment. The components in green tea, such as polyphenols and theanine, have also been linked with a reduced risk of Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease, according to a 2018 study.
It can lower blood sugar.
Green tea extract has been known to lower blood sugar levels, and a 2013 study concluded that green tea lowered blood sugar fairly significantly. Trials have been promising, which could be excellent news for those suffering from diabetes.
The potential side effects of green tea
With the good comes the bad, but with green tea, there tends only to be a negative effect if taken to excess.
The caffeine issue
While some may see caffeine as a bonus, those sensitive to caffeine can encounter issues if drinking green tea in high amounts. Keeping the balance right is essential, even if you’re not caffeine-sensitive. Green tea has plenty of benefits so long as the correct amount is consumed. For example, it has a significant calming effect and can aid in sleeping, but if you drink too much, you may feel restless and have difficulty sleeping.
Potential liver damage
As with most things that are taken to excess, there are adverse side effects. Green tea might cause liver damage and illness if taken excessively (such as more than 5 cups per day). This is due to the caffeine rather than the health-promoting nutrients it contains, as too much caffeine can cause stress on the liver.
Green tea has been shown to boost energy, sex drive, fertility and heart function, which can be great for helping to get testosterone levels back in your system. Taken alongside a healthy diet and regular exercise, it can get you back on track and help get hormone levels back up. You must consume the right amount, as too much can negatively affect your health due to caffeine consumption.
Should you take green tea extract to increase testosterone?
Green tea extract is certainly one way that you can help boost your t-levels without taking prescribed medication.
Testoprime includes green tea extract and is available in an easily consumable form. It’s a great way to consume an adequate amount without adding more to your diet.
