Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is the most common type of heart disease and the leading cause of death in the United States and across the globe in both men and women.
CAD occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed and hardened, due to the buildup of cholesterol and plaque. This process is called atherosclerosis, and as it progresses, less blood is able to flow through the arteries. This means the heart is not receiving the blood and oxygen it needs. This often causes everything from chest pains to a heart attack.
How can green tea protect you against CAD?
A study published in the European Journal of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation says that people who drink green tea have better blood vessel function in as little as 30 minutes after consuming the green tea.
The study subjects also experienced significant artery widening (dilation) after consuming green tea. This allows for maximum flow of blood and oxygen to the heart.
The antioxidants specific to green tea improve the function of endothelial cells. When these endothelial cells do not function properly, they play a key role in the development of clogged arteries (atherosclerosis).
