By Michael Heffernan

Green Tea and Sleep Disturbance

Green tea has long been associated with enhancing a healthy life as they contain catechins that have strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Research has shown green tea can reduce the risk of dementia in later life. As we age our quality of sleep is generally decreased so drinking green tea, which means consuming caffeine too, can impact the quality and quantity of sleep all the more in older individuals.  

 A study on the effects that consuming low-caffeine green tea had on sleep patterns in care home residaents in Japan, found that moving away from caffeine was beneficial for improving the sleep quality and suppressing stress (Ingestion of green tea with lowered caffeine improves sleep quality of the elderly via suppression of stress; Unno K et al 2017). Not surprisingly greater caffeine intake increases the number of times an individual gets up at night and this can impact our waking hours, and long-term brain health. However, the amino acids heanine and arginine found in green tea have been shown to have anti-stress effects and can actually help with sleep quality.  

Dr. Heffs Remarkable Mints contain natural ingredients and are caffeine-free and sugar-free. One of the main ingredients is green tea extract that is decaffeinated as this helps to protect the collagen that makes up your teeth and is also antibacterial. Since Dr. Heff’s Remarkable Mints contain de-caffeinated green tea, you will get the benefits but will not harm your sleep even if you need to use a mint in the night to help with dry mouth or to help soothe a cough. 

 They are ideal for people that suffer from dry mouth as they help to stimulate saliva and the mint leaves the mouth feeling fresh and clean. They are scientifically tested by international dental schools, recommended by dentists, and endorsed by Toothfriendly International. 

So, get a great night's sleep as well as the benefits of green tea! 

Available from our shop here.

Take care,

Dr. Mike Heffernan