Health Tip: The Power of Green Tea
(HealthDayNews, 3/10/05)

As scientists investigate tea’s long-touted health benefits, numerous studies are confirming links between drinking green tea and a reduced risk of cancer. Furthermore, research is showing that antioxidants in green, black and oolong teas may promote cardiovascular health by supporting arterial function, inhibiting LDL (bad) cholesterol oxidation and increasing HDL (good) cholesterol. The Harvard Women's Health Watch recommends that to get the maximum disease-fighting effect from tea, you should drink it freshly brewed, having steeped it for 3 to 5 minutes. They warn that decaffeinated, bottled tea beverages and instant varieties are less effective. They also suggest adding lemon or milk to offset tea’s tendency to block the absorption of iron from fruits and vegetables.