To obtain maximum benefits from green tea, four cups daily should be consumed, although even one cup daily can result in a marked improvement in general health. In cultures where green tea consumption is high, the rates of cancer and cardiovascular disease are drastically lower. Cups should be spaced throughout the day, as it is not necessarily more effective when taken in large doses. For those who do not care for the taste of green tea, green tea capsules are available at health food stores. One of these capsules contains the equivalent of four cups of tea.
Green tea is marketed in health food stores and in many of the larger supermarkets.
There are several varieties from both Japan and China whick contain the same healthful benefits. When choosing a green tea, always purchase the highest quality available since the higher grades contain even higher polyphenol levels. Tea is graded by the degree to which the whole leaves are left intact. The less breakage of the leaves, the higher the grade. Fresh green tea leaves should be a light yellow or light green.