Tea is one of the most popular beverages across the world for many reasons. Relaxation, tradition, customs and pleasure. Britain likes to have a classic afternoon tea, you can’t visit Argentina without enjoying a cup of mate, and Peruvians swear by tea made by coca leaves. I was able to experience a couple of these first hand studying abroad.
To keep it simple, there are two main categories of tea. The first are the herbals teas that essentially consist of a blend of leaves, roots, flowers of edible plants for example chamomile or peppermint. The second is camellia sinensis plant derivatives, which consist of all black, green, and oolong tea. The difference between them is how long the leaves are left to dry and oxidize. The green teas tend to be the least processed although in them to have the highest number of polyphenols, aka antioxidants.
Simply– Hydration
Although plain water is the primary fluid for replenishing thirst after a morning workout or a long day at work, tea can be equally useful. Even despite the caffeine, it provides a source of flavorsome water. But tea’s benefits go beyond the refreshments.
Antioxidants
It is a rich source of flavonoids, most commonly found in green tea. Flavonoids are a natural source of phytochemicals. They act as antioxidants, which essentially you could protect our body from “rusting,” with anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties.
Heart Health
Tea drinkers may be protecting their heart health without even knowing. There is a lot of strong evidence in literature protecting this understanding. In fact, a study published in 2016 concluded that among those who drank one to three cups of green tea a day had a 20% reduction in risk of heart attack and 35% reduced risk of stroke. Those who drank four or more cups of tea a day had a 32% reduced risk of heart attack and lower levels of LDL cholesterol.
Weight Watcher
Some studies suggest regular tea drinking keeps body fat down by speeding up your metabolism. Tea can also boost endurance. The antioxidants found in green tea extract increase the body’s ability to burn fat as fuel. If anything else we know it’s bound to be less fattening than sipping on a sugary pop.
Brain Power
Some believe certain types of tea, such as green tea, strengthen memory cells. It also may be an effective agent in protection from neurological diseases such Dementia and Alzheimers. Although there are many factors that influence our brains, polyphenols found in tea can keep maintenance on the areas that regulate learning and memory.
Pretty Smiles
Believe it or not, tea can strengthen your teeth. High acidity in your mouth is a large factor for tooth enamel. Tea changes the pH in your mouth to a more favorable environment to prevent cavities and well, to not erode tooth enamel. The antioxidants also fight against bacteria and gum disease.
Have you heard of Matcha? Matcha is actually just the powdered form of green tea! One cup of matcha tea is said to be the nutritional equivalent of 10 cups of regular green tea.
Most of these studies and findings have been found through habitual tea drinkers. That is, enjoying the beverage at least three times a week. However, it seems you can never go wrong with the great zero calorie alternative. Hot or cold, a dash of cinnamon or lemon juice, a squirt of honey, or plain as it is you can easily keep your palate pleased. There are plenty to try from brands such as Yogi Tea and Mountain Rose Herbs.