Green tea and depression

Green tea has a number of benefits. It can help relax the body, boost metabolism, counter the harmful effects of free radicals and protects against cancer and heart diseases. Green tea is also good for depression. The amino acid L-theanine present in green tea interacts with neurotransmitters of the brain and encourages the mind and body to relax. Green tea helps lower the levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Stress can cause chemical imbalances in the brain. These chemical imbalances are associated with depression. Low levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin are linked to increased occurrence of depression. By balancing out chemical mediators in the body, green tea can help reduce the chances of depression. There are several kinds of green tea available in the market. You can go in for plain green tea or green tea with lemon or ginger. Studies have shown that men and women who drink 4 or more cups of green tea are less likely to show signs of depression. This positive benefit is associated only with green tea and not with other forms of tea or coffee. Although the role of green tea in countering depression is still being studied, there is enough proof that this drink does have several benefits and is pure, natural and free of side effects. Therefore, there is no harm in including 2 or more cups of green tea in your daily routine.