Green tea may cut digestive cancer risk
30 October 2012
Women who regularly drink green tea appear to have less chance of developing certain cancers, the findings of a new study suggest.
Of more than 69,000 Chinese women followed for a decade, those who drank green tea at least three times a week were 14% less likely to develop a cancer of the colon, stomach and throat.
Women who drank two to three cups a day cut their risk by a fifth.
Green tea – made from the dried leaves of the Asian plant Camellia sinesis –contains antioxidants which scientists believe may have a protective effect against cancer.
Some laboratory studies have shown that extracts from green tea can stop cancer cells from growing.
But experts say more studies are needed to prove if green tea really works.
Some other research has found no reduced cancer risk among green tea drinkers.
UK investigators who have carried out their own review of the available evidence – 51 studies in total involving more than 1.6 million people – say although green tea remains unproven in preventing cancer it is safe to drink.
People can safely enjoy three to five cups a day, according to the Cochrane Group.
But remember, most green tea contains caffeine so it will act as a stimulant and may keep you awake if you drink it before bed.
For more information on different cancers, visit the rest of our Cancer Centre where you can read about cancer treatments and a range of lifestyle articles, or ask one of our experts a specific cancer-related question that you may have.
Source © Trio Media 2012