Is there anything green tea can’t do? When researchers at Athens Medical School in Greece studied the brew’s effects on the cells that line the blood vessels, which are important in proper artery function, they found that the flavonoid-rich leaves may improve blood flow. Fourteen study subjects drank either green tea, hot water, or diluted caffeine on three different occasions. Researchers measured blood flow in the arms of the participants before they consumed one of the drinks and then 30, 90, and 120 minutes following. After sipping the green tea, subjects had an increase in blood flow and arm artery relaxation. The effects were short lived—peaking at 30 minutes—and researchers say additional studies are needed to examine the long-term effect of green tea consumption on heart disease risk.

Source: European Journal of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation, June 2008

Slow and Steady

Put down your fork—doing so between bites could prevent overeating. According to a recent study, eating slowly and savoring your meal could help you eat fewer calories. Researchers from the University of Rhode Island gave 30 young women the same meal on two separate occasions. Initially the women were instructed to eat as fast as comfortable; during the second meal, the women were told to take small bites, put their utensils down between bites, and chew each piece 20 or 30 times. On average, each woman consumed about 70 fewer calories per meal when she ate slowly. Plus, the women felt more satisfied and fuller when they ate slowly. The reason? The researchers say leisurely dining may give your body time to alert you when to stop eating, and spending time appreciating a meal’s flavors and textures may lead to better satiety.

Source: American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, July 2008