Green tea unlikely to reduce cancer risk

Science Daily ^ | July 1

[nickcarraway]

WASHINGTON, July 1 (UPI) -- The evidence that green tea may reduce risk of some cancers is weak and its unlikely to cut cancer risk, U.S. Federal Drug Administration officials said.

"Two studies do not show that drinking green tea reduces the risk of breast cancer in women, but one weaker, more limited study suggests that drinking green tea may reduce this risk," the FDA said in a statement Friday. "Based on these studies, FDA concludes that it is highly unlikely that green tea reduces the risk of breast cancer."

In addition FDA said, "One weak and limited study does not show that drinking green tea reduces the risk of prostate cancer, but another weak and limited study suggests that drinking green tea may reduce this risk -- based on these studies, the FDA concludes that it is highly unlikely that green tea reduces the risk of prostate cancer."

The FDA will continue to evaluate new information on consumption of green tea to determine if changes in these claims, or in the decision, are necessary, the agency said.

[veronica]

Another interesting natural remedy I just heard about is pomegranate juice. Dr. Rosenfeld on Fox news says it removes plaque from arteries. One glass a day, he recommends.

[mollynme]

So I can stick to black tea in peace? Cool.

I'm sitting here enjoying my daily 16oz of darjeeling. (I've always thought green tea was way overrated.)

[Extremely Extreme Extremist]

If the FDA had found that green tea fights cancer, the next thing you know the FDA would try to ban green tea.

The FDA already banned Red Yeast Rice because it contained the same cholesterol-lowering ingredients as do the prescription drugs used to lower cholesterol.

The FDA is a wholly owned subsidairy of the drug companies, and it should be disbanded and turned into an independent, non-profit organization, sort of like how ASE certifies auto mechanics.

[Diana in Wisconsin]

Chai Tea is my favorite. One half-shot of the purchased syrup from DaVinci Gourmet in a coffee-mug full of milk, then warmed on the stove, is great before bed. You can use the same proportions, but pour it over ice for a summer cooler.

Or make this yourself:

Chai Tea Mix

1 14-ounce can unsweetened condensed milk (low-fat or nonfat, if desired)
1/2 teaspoon ground cardamon
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper

1. Pour the entire can of milk into a clean, dry jar.

2. Add all the spices and cover tightly with a lid.

3. Place in the refrigerator. The longer it stays refrigerated, the better it gets.

4. To use, stir the mixture, and scoop out 2 to 3 tablespoons directly into a cup of very strong, very hot black tea.

(Makes 1 3/4 cups)

Neither of my suggestions have been approved by the FDA, LOL!

[adam_az]

"I've tried to like it but can't stand the stuff.... "

Try Green Tea and Jasmine - it's great.

And readily available.

[depenzz]

I was'nt aware that Red Yeast Rice was banned. It can still be purchased at the Health Food Store I use.

I used it when I lowered my colestrol, at least it was one of the items I used. In 9 weeks I lowered my colestrol 102 points. My Doctor was upset that I did'nt use the Lipitor he gave me but, hey, this is my temple and I say what goes into it.

My way was more complicated than poping a pill but it did'nt cause any side effects and it was much better for me. I use Policosanol now and will find out how well it is performing in September.

[who knows what evil?]

Another interesting natural remedy I just heard about is pomegranate juice. Dr. Rosenfeld on Fox news says it removes plaque from arteries.

Corcur. The 'Pomwonderful' juices on sale at most stores are excellent, and I use a pomegrante juice concentrate in my smoothies on a daily basis. Interesting side effect, guys...seems to have a "Viagra-like effect" in some men. Maybe that is why they are mentioned in the Bible's 'Song of Solomon'. Hmmm...

[spectre]

Here are just a few known health benefits of drinking green tea:

*Boosts your immune system
*Lowers blood sugar
*Helps prevent cavities and tooth decay
*Slows the aging process
*Helps reduce the risk of cancer
*Lowers cholesterol
*Aids in weight loss by burning calories
*Reduces high blood pressure
*Prevents arthritis
*Reduces the risk of heart disease
*Reduces the risk of stroke
*Lowers the risk of blood clot

I take a green tea capsule every day :)

[Wilhelm Tell]

I drink about 5 cups of green tea a day, mostly sencha but sometimes bancha because it is more affordable. Once in a while I have matcha, and that is so delicious I can't describe it. No wonder the Japanese built a ceremony around matcha.

I have also found it helpful to go for several days without tea to flush the caffeine out of my system. During my "fast" from tea I drink water and fruit juice. I do this once every six weeks or so -- I can just feel it when I have too much caffeine in my system and then I really appreciate tea after not drinking any for a few days.

[veronica]

Is there caffeine or speed-like products in green tea? I can't take anything that might speed up my heart rate - except for during exercise of course my rate goes up. A small amount of caffeine is ok. Very small.

[Republic]

Celestial Seasonings makes several varities of naturally decaffeinated green tea.