I have to admit that as a “health nut,” I have joined the green tea craze. Green tea in the traditional sense, green tea in “health” drinks, even green tea gum. Is there any foundation for this fad, or will it soon be replaced by the next health kick?
Many studies suggest that green tea has a protective role against cancer, and lung cancer is no exception. Not only do we see less lung cancer in cultures where green tea is a staple, but credible studies have even shown that green tea may prevent some of the damage smoking causes in the lungs that can lead to cancer - when individuals drank at least 4 cups per day.
For those of us that are non-smokers, this is good news as well. 20% of women who develop lung cancer have never touched a cigarette. Savoring that afternoon cup of green tea might play a role in keeping the oncologist away – while at the same time bringing a pleasant moment to our hectic lives.
Today, instead of a recipe we offer tips on maximizing the benefits of that tea. Our About.com Guide to Alternative Medicine, Cathy Wong, shares her expertise in:
Sources:
Hakim, I. et al. Green tea consumption associated with decreased DNA damage among GSTM1-positive smokers regardless of their nOGG1 genotype. Journal of Nutrition. 2008. 138(8):1567S-1571S.
Hakim, I. et al. Effect of a 4-month tea intervention on oxidative DNA damage among heavy smokers: role of glutathione s-transferase genotypes. Cancer Epidemiology Biomarkers and Prevention. 2004. 13:242-249.
