5 Reasons to Drink Green Tea

Green Tea – A Favorite Drink of Mine

Coffee is a staple in the functional fitness community. Not only is it Paleo-friendly, but it also delivers a natural energy boost that helps push through tough workouts. At The Rx Review, we understand caffeine’s appeal.

But coffee isn’t without its downsides: stained teeth, afternoon crashes, and frequent bathroom breaks can make it less appealing. Enter green tea, a beverage that provides caffeine with added health benefits, including support for weight management and overall wellbeing.

What is Green Tea?

Green tea comes from the unfermented leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. Unlike black tea, it undergoes minimal processing, which preserves antioxidants, polyphenols, and other beneficial compounds. These nutrients contribute to green tea’s numerous health benefits.

5 Reasons to Swap Coffee for Green Tea

1. Provides a Gentle Caffeine Boost

Each cup of green tea contains approximately 35 mg of caffeine. While less than coffee’s 100+ mg, it delivers a smoother, longer-lasting energy boost without the jitters or afternoon crash. Ideal for late-afternoon energy slumps or as a coffee alternative.

2. Promotes Dental Health

Green tea has natural compounds that help prevent tooth decay and minimize staining. Drinking green tea regularly can lead to healthier teeth and gums — without the unsightly stains coffee leaves behind.

3. Supports Fat Burning and Weight Management

Green tea has metabolism-boosting properties, helping the body burn calories more efficiently. Studies suggest that drinking one cup per day can result in burning an additional 78 calories daily, making it a simple addition to a weight management routine.

4. Slows Down the Ageing Process

Green tea is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which help reduce oxidative stress in the body. It can protect skin from damage, maintain a youthful appearance, and even minimize the effects of sun exposure when applied topically.

5. Improves Cholesterol Levels

Regular consumption of green tea can lower LDL (bad cholesterol) and improve the ratio of good to bad cholesterol, supporting heart health and reducing cardiovascular risk.

A Brief History of Green Tea

Green tea has been consumed for thousands of years. Legend has it that Emperor Shen-Nung discovered tea in 2737 BC, when leaves accidentally fell into boiling water. Today, it’s celebrated worldwide as a health-promoting beverage.

How to Incorporate Green Tea into Your CrossFit Routine

• Replace one cup of coffee per day with green tea.

• Drink unsweetened or lightly sweetened to maintain health benefits.

• Pair with a light breakfast or post-workout snack to enhance energy and metabolism.

Conclusion: The CrossFitter’s “Wonder Drink”

Green tea offers caffeine, fat-burning properties, youthful skin, dental benefits, and heart support — making it a perfect addition to a CrossFit lifestyle. Next time you reach for your coffee, consider trying a cup of green tea instead. Your body, your teeth, and your performance will thank you.