In a land of tea lovers, green is the new black. Where the traditional black tea is served at literally any time of the day, green tea is fast gaining in popularity among the increasingly health-conscious people of Saudi Arabia. The numerous benefits of China’s national drink (tea – green and black) have been proved in studies conducted from time to time, where not just green but also the black tea has its own health properties.

A recent study of over 3,400 adults in the Kingdom found that those who consumed over six cups per day of black tea had a more than 50 percent lower risk of coronary heart disease compared to tea abstainers, despite other factors such as smoking, diet and obesity.

Meanwhile, a new study last month concluded that a cup of green tea may protect against Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. The researchers also found proof to support the theory that green tea polyphenols might improve thinking (cognition) in animals as well as humans.

Green tea is a natural source of flavonoids and antioxidants, and among other benefits, aids in purifying the body, reducing blood pressure and improving the skin health.

It is a common knowledge that green tea is the favorite drink of dieters. And why not! In yet another study, researchers found that men who were given a combination of caffeine and green tea extract burned more calories than those given only caffeine. Green tea’s bacteria-destroying abilities make it a powerful cure for dental plaque. It’s effectiveness as a solution for the overall body health can be seen from the numerous body creams, shampoos, and other cosmetics making a strong presence in the market.

The secret of green tea lies in the fact that it is rich in catechin polyphenols, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). EGCG is a powerful anti-oxidant: besides inhibiting the growth of cancer cells, it kills cancer cells without harming healthy tissue. It has also been effective in lowering LDL cholesterol levels, and inhibiting the abnormal formation of blood clots.

What sets green tea apart is the way it is processed. Green tea leaves are steamed, which prevents the EGCG compound from being oxidized. By contrast, black and oolong tea leaves are made from fermented leaves, which results in the EGCG being converted into other compounds that are not as effective against various diseases.

The only known negative effect of green tea is insomnia, which is a result of its caffeine composition. However, the caffeine content in green tea is less than that in coffee.

While some experts recommend a dose of at least four or five cups of the wonder drink a day, others insist a ten-cups-per-day formula for maximum benefit. A University of California research studying the cancer-preventative qualities of green tea put the number at a mere two cups per day for attaining the desired level of polyphenols. Another study, this one by Cleveland's Western Reserve University, found that drinking four or more cups of green tea per day could help prevent rheumatoid arthritis, or reduce symptoms in individuals already suffering from the disease.

Saudi Arabia’s favorite tea company, Pepsi Lipton International, in a bid to tap the green tea market, had launched a new range of ready-to-drink green tea in cold format called the Lipton Clear Green. The delicious beverage, which allows its enthusiasts to enjoy all the benefits of natural green tea, comes in two flavors: Mint Lemon, and Honey Lemon.

These days Lipton is ensuring that you gain from more than just the apparent benefits of green tea as it gives random advice carefully written on the back of the tea bags. These are ‘Feel good Tips’, which can be anything from ‘Meet your friends for lunch today’, ‘Spend more time outdoors today’ and so on. Need more reason to take that sip of health?

A number of green tea brands – some original, others not – are available in the market. If you are confused, let d3ayat’s listing help you decide on your pick.