They pointed to the "Asian paradox," lower rate of heart diseases and cancer in Asia despite a high rate of smoking.
They theorized that the 1.2 liters of green tea consumed by many Asians each day, provides high levels of polyphenols and other antioxidants.
Specifically, green tea may prevent the oxidation of LDL cholesterol which in turn can reduce the build-up of plaque in arteries, the researchers wrote.
These compounds may work in several ways to improve cardiovascular health.
In May 2006, researchers at Yale University weighed in on green tea's health benefits with a review article that examined more than 100 studies on the health benefits of green tea.
