Dear Doctor,

Is it healthy/safe for a diabetic elderly person to take green tea? And generally, what are the health benefits of taking green tea? Anne

Dear Anne,

Green tea has multiple health benefits. Hence it is safe and even healthy for an elderly person and that too a diabetic.

It is not processed much before it is consumed. Hence it is rich in catechins. Catechins are anti oxidants that prevent cell damage and even help in cell regeneration. This is beneficial for the elderly as it prevents or minimizes the risk of degenerative conditions of old age like macular degeneration, spondylosis and osteoarthritis. It is helpful in preventing cancer as well.

It improves blood flow, which improves the functioning of the heart. It is also known to reduce blood cholesterol. These actions reduce heart problems. It is helpful in heart failure as well. Because of the improved blood flow, function of the brain is improved, which reduces risk of senile dementia. This prevents or minimizes risk of Alzheimer;s disease in the elderly. Green tea helps to block the formation of plaques that are related to Alzheimer’s disease. In diabetic patients, it is known to keep the blood sugar stable. It also helps to reduce the blood pressure, which is a common co-morbidity with diabetes. Some studies claim that green tea is helpful in obesity, but this claim is controversial. However it certainly does not add to calories.

As such drinking tea is relaxing. Theanine, a chemical present in green tea provides a calming effect to the brain and mind.