Green Tea Extract vs. Green Tea: What’s the Difference?

Green tea is a beloved beverage that has been enjoyed for centuries for its numerous health benefits. But what about green tea extract? Is it the same as green tea, or is there a difference?

Green tea extract is a concentrated form of green tea that is made by extracting the active compounds from the tea leaves. These compounds, known as catechins, are what give green tea its powerful antioxidant properties. Green tea extract is typically sold in supplement form, and is often used as an ingredient in weight loss supplements and other health products.

On the other hand, green tea is the whole leaf tea, which is made by steeping the leaves in hot water. Green tea leaves contain not only catechins but also other beneficial compounds such as L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation. Drinking green tea has shown to have more benefits than the extract form. It can lower the risk of cardiovascular disease and some types of cancer, help with weight loss, and improve brain function and mental alertness.

So, is green tea extract the same as green tea? The short answer is no. While both contain catechins, green tea also contains a variety of other beneficial compounds that are not found in green tea extract. Additionally, the extract form is more concentrated and can be taken in a pill or powder, whereas green tea is typically consumed as a beverage.

However, it is important to note that not all green tea supplements are created equal. Some supplements contain lower-quality green tea extract that may not be as effective as high-quality green tea. It’s important to look for supplements that contain at least 50% catechins and less than 5% caffeine.

If you’re looking to enjoy the benefits of green tea, we recommend drinking high-quality loose leaf green tea, rather than relying on green tea extract supplements. However, if you’re looking for a convenient way to supplement your diet with green tea, a high-quality green tea extract supplement can be a good option.

In conclusion, green tea extract and green tea are not the same but they both contain beneficial compounds. If you want to enjoy the benefits of green tea, we recommend drinking high-quality loose leaf green tea.