Green tea may be one of the most consumed beverages in the world, but there are other ways to enjoy it other than by the mug. It is hardly surprising that green tea is so widely enjoyed though; it is believed to have a range of health benefits for the drinker. The antioxidants found in green tea have been linked with fighting against ‘free radicals'- particles which are damaging to cells, causing premature aging and even cancer [1].

Aside from the cell protecting properties of green tea, research by Japanese scientists has shown that the antioxidants in green tea could also help cognitive function. They believe that consuming green tea can help to improve memory and learning ability, due to antioxidants being able to penetrate the brain's blood barrier to positively affect free radicals in the brain [2].

Green tea ice cream

However it isn't just the health benefits of green tea that are attractive, the taste is appealing to many drinkers too. In fact, in Asia there are many makes of green tea ice cream available to purchase. You could make your own green tea ice cream with green tea powder and a suitable recipe[3].

Green tea snacks

Green tea doughnuts like the ones above are available in some parts of the world, and green tea is also sometimes combined with macaroons for snacks. One brand of ginger ale has even made a green tea flavoured version.

For those who enjoy traditional products, including green tea capsules and bags, these are widely available at most good health food shops throughout the UK.

[1] Hawkins, E et al (2007) Green tea

http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/green-tea-000255.htm

[2] Lee, H. Et al (2004).Protective effect of green tea polyphenol EGCG against neuronal damage and brain edema after unilateral cerebral ischemia in gerbils. http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/journal/109581093/abstract?CRETRY=1&SRETRY=0

[3] Channel 4. (2010). Green tea ice cream recipe. http://www.channel4.com/food/recipes/green-tea-ice-cream-recipe_p_1.html