Green Tea Extract: Health Benefits and Guidance from the Word of Wisdom

The Health Benefits of Green Tea Extract According to the Word of Wisdom

The Word of Wisdom is a law of health revealed by God to Joseph Smith, the founder of Mormonism, in 1833. It outlines foods and substances that are healthy and should be used, as well as those that should be avoided. Green tea is not specifically mentioned in the Word of Wisdom, but the general principles in the revelation can help provide guidance about the health benefits of green tea extract.

What is Green Tea Extract?

Green tea is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, which is native to China and India. To make green tea, the leaves are quickly steamed or pan-fried after harvesting. This minimal processing helps preserve the natural polyphenols in the leaves, including antioxidants called catechins.

The most abundant catechin in green tea is epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG). This potent antioxidant has been shown in studies to have anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and immune-boosting effects. Green tea extract is a concentrated form of these beneficial compounds in green tea leaves.

Principles in the Word of Wisdom Related to Green Tea

The Word of Wisdom does not specifically mention green tea. However, there are some principles in this revelation that can provide guidance about green tea extract.

Wholesome Herbs

One part of the Word of Wisdom states:

"All wholesome herbs God hath ordained for the constitution, nature, and use of man." (D&C 89:10)

Green tea leaves come from the tea plant, an herb that grows naturally. Green tea extract is simply a concentrated form of the leaves of this wholesome herb.

Mild Drinks

Another verse in the Word of Wisdom recommends:

"All grain is ordained for the use of man...to be the staff of life...All grain is good for the food of man; as also the fruit of the vine; that which yieldeth fruit, whether in the ground or above the groundNevertheless, wheat for man...and barley for mild drinks." (D&C 89:14, 16-17)

These verses distinguish between grain for bread and baked goods, grapes for wine, and barley for mild barley-based drinks. Green tea could be considered a mild plant-based drink, similar to barley drinks.

Not For the Body or Belly

In contrast, the Word of Wisdom specifically cautions against:

"Strong drinks (alcohol)...tobacco...and hot drinks (like coffee and regular steeped black tea)" (D&C 89:5-9)

These substances are described as "not for the body or belly" (D&C 89:8). So according to these verses, drinks like coffee and regular black tea should be avoided.

However, green tea could be considered more of a mild, herbal drink. The green tea plant itself is described as a "wholesome herb" and green tea is only gently steamed, not heavily processed or roasted like black tea or coffee.

Potential Health Benefits of Green Tea Extract

A growing body of scientific research has uncovered potential health benefits linked to green tea extract:

Rich in Antioxidants

Green tea contains polyphenol antioxidants like EGCG that can help neutralize damaging free radicals and reduce inflammation in the body. Studies show EGCG and other green tea antioxidants may lower the risk of heart disease, cancer, and liver disease.

Supports Brain Health

The catechins in green tea extract may help protect the neurons involved in learning and memory. Human trials and animal studies suggest green tea compounds may boost cognitive function and delay Alzheimer's disease and dementia.

Aids Weight Loss

Research demonstrates green tea extract can elevate fat burning and speed up metabolism. The caffeine and catechins in green tea may help regulate appetite and increase calorie burning, especially when combined with exercise.

Lowers Blood Sugar

Some human studies report green tea extract can support healthy blood sugar control. The polyphenols may help regulate the digestion of carbohydrates, supporting steady insulin levels and lower blood sugar.

Supports Heart Health

Green tea catechins can help protect LDL cholesterol particles from oxidation, which is a key factor in the development of heart disease. Regularly drinking green tea is linked to improved blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Possible Side Effects and Precautions

Drinking moderate amounts of unsweetened green tea or taking green tea extract is generally quite safe. However, there are some considerations when it comes to potential side effects:

Caffeine Content

Green tea contains less caffeine than coffee or black tea, but it still has a modest amount. Too much caffeine from green tea extract or other sources may cause jitteriness, headaches, insomnia, anxiety, and fast heartbeat.

Stomach Upset

Drinking very strong green tea on an empty stomach can sometimes cause mild stomach ache or nausea, especially in sensitive individuals. It's best to avoid taking green tea extract capsules without food.

Iron Absorption

The catechins in green tea can bind to non-heme iron from plant sources, making it harder to absorb. People at risk of iron deficiency should take green tea extract capsules between meals and practice moderation.

Anemia

The EGCG in green tea may inhibit the absorption of folic acid, which is needed to make healthy red blood cells. Anyone with anemia should be cautious with high doses of green tea extract.

Bleeding Disorders

Green tea catechins like EGCG may inhibit platelet aggregation. People with bleeding disorders or taking blood thinners like Warfarin should exercise caution with green tea intake.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Most health authorities consider moderate green tea consumption to be safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, extracts in supplement form have not been studied for safety in pregnant women.

Green Tea and the Word of Wisdom: A Summary

The Word of Wisdom revelation offers principles that can guide the use of green tea extract for health. Green tea comes from a wholesome herb and is a mild drink, especially compared to heavily processed black tea. Green tea extract provides antioxidants and other beneficial plant compounds that may protect the body and mind.

However, green tea does have some caffeine. Higher doses found in concentrated extracts may cause side effects in sensitive individuals. Those with health conditions or taking medications should exercise caution. As with all herbal supplements, it is best to speak with a doctor before adding green tea extract.

Overall, green tea extract from a wholesome herb seems to fit within the spirit of the Word of Wisdom. Used moderately without sweeteners, green tea and its concentrated nutritional compounds appear to be a healthy, plant-based addition to the diet for most people.

The Word of Wisdom was given by God to Joseph Smith as a revelation of truth and has special significance to members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. However, the principles of healthy, wholesome living in this revelation can bless the lives of all who choose to follow them.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.