5 Cognitive and Sleep Benefits of Consuming Green Tea According to Latest Research

By Mansurat Zakari 

Steeped in tradition and boasting a legion of loyal fans, green tea transcends continents and cultures. It is believed to have originated in China, with evidence dating back to 2737 BC. The Camellia sinensis plant, from which green tea is made, is thought to be native to China's Yunnan province.

And beyond its delightful grassy aroma and refreshing appeal, green tea also offers some health benefits. This article would look at the benefits of green tea for sleep and cognitive function as well as how its consumption brings about these benefits. 

Cognitive Benefits of Green Tea

1. Improved Memory and Focus

Turns out green tea is not just refreshing - it may be a brain booster too! Research suggests that the components in green tea like the polyphenols can help improve your memory and ability to stay focused.

A study even found that regular consumption of green tea may help ease feelings of anxiety and depression especially for older adults. And here's the kicker: it could also reduce your risk of developing cognitive impairment and dementia which causes memory problems as you grow older.

 

Also, the bioactive compounds in green tea have been shown to have neuroprotective effects (protecting neurons from oxidative stress and inflammation) which lowers risk of neurological disorders and helps in improving brain function.

2. Enhanced Brain Function

While you may see sipping your green tea merely as a satisfying habit, it is more than just satisfying. A key polyphenol in green tea, EGCG or epigallocatechin gallate, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that acts like a superhero shield protecting your brain cells from cognitive decline.

Regular consumption could also help in potentially reducing the risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. However, scientists are still working on discovering exactly how much you need to consume to get the best results.

3. Potential Protection Against Neurodegenerative Diseases

When it comes to protection against neurodegenerative diseases, green tea is more than just a refreshing pick-me-up. Research suggests that components like theanine and catechins hold neuroprotective qualities. These antioxidants have been associated with reduction in cognitive decline and even the development of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.  They have also shown promise in the prevention of clogged arteries, which is a risk factor for memory problems. 

Sleep Benefits of Green Tea

1. Stress Reduction and Relaxation

Have you noticed that having a cup of green tea helps you sleep better? Here's why. 

Green tea contains L-theanine, an amino acid that studies suggest can help you unwind and get a better night's sleep. This amino acid, L-theanine, may work by raising the levels of calming chemicals in your brain, like GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid).

A study found that people who consume L-theanine report feeling more relaxed compared to those who did not consume it. Regular consumption in healthy adults leads to a general improvement in sleep quality.

2. Improved Sleep Onset and Duration

If you've been considering adding green tea to your pre-bedtime routine, this is your go-ahead. The L-theanine in green tea promotes the brain’s production of alpha waves which leads to increased relaxation and sleepiness.

  L-theanine is also able to cross the blood-brain barrier allowing it to effectively influence neurotransmitters that promote relaxation while reducing the levels of chemicals associated with stress. This compounds its effects leading to improved sleep onset and sleep duration.

However, do have in mind that green tea also contains caffeine, so it's best to avoid it too close to bedtime especially if you're sensitive to caffeine.

Conclusion

Drinking green tea can help improve your memory, overall brain function, and sleep quality all thanks to its unique blend of components. Even though more research is needed to fully understand how these benefits come about, this natural drink remains a great sleep health and brain health booster.