Tea: A Healthy Hot Drink
Legend has it, the ancient Chinese Emperor Shen Nong stumbled upon tea when some leaves from a camellia bush blew into his boiling water. The aroma and refreshing taste led him to believe that tea had qualities of vitality and healing.
Millenia have passed since that fateful day and tea has nearly taken over the world, second only water. Little did the ancient Chinese know (or maybe they did?) about tea’s incredible health benefits. We’ll look at a few of those benefits along with a few things to keep in mind when enjoying this delicious drink.
Tea Perks:
1. Decreased Inflammation
Chronic inflammation can cause of mess of serious health issues like diabetes, heart disease, arthritis and even cancer. Tea is packed with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds. Catechins and flavonoids are the antioxidant heroes in green and white teas.
2. Heart Healthy
Green and black teas help keep your heart in check by preventing the buildup of atherosclerosis.
3. Improve Mental Sharpness
Thanks to caffeine, tea can improve attention, alertness and memory. It may even help to protect against degenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
4. Weight Management
It has been suggested that green tea extract can be a part of a weight loss plan when combined with a healthy diet and exercise. Fermented teas like kombucha contain probiotics that support a healthy gut. This has been linked to better digestion and immunity.
Unique Benefits of Specific Teas
- Green Tea: Unoxidized with a host of antioxidants like catechins; it’s excellent for heart health, metabolism, and sharpening mental function.
- Black Tea: Fully oxidized, which gives it a unique set of benefits. It has polyphenols called theaflavins that help lower cholesterol and reduce blood pressure.
- Oolong Tea: Semi-oxidized; it may help to speed up metabolism and burn fat. At the same time, it is good for controlling blood sugars.
- White Tea: The least processed of the bunch with the highest antioxidant levels.
- Herbal Teas: Chamomile, peppermint, rooibos — all caffeine-free. These are often linked with specific benefits, like relaxation and aiding digestion.
The Downsides:
1. Caffeine
Tea naturally has caffeine, which can lead to insomnia, anxiety or a racing heart. Even low caffeine varieties can mess with your sleep if consumed too late in the day.
2. Iron Absorption Interference
The tannins in tea can get in the way of your body absorbing iron from food. Try drinking tea between rather than during meals.
3. Contaminants
Low-quality teas may have pesticide residues, heavy metals (like lead and aluminum) or other harmful additives. Poor quality black teas may have high levels of fluoride.
4. Bottled Teas
Pre-made bottled teas from the store often sneak in high amounts of sugar, artificial flavors and preservatives. It’s best to read the labels or brew your own to avoid the extra calories.
Maximizing the Benefits
- Organic, Loose-Leaf Teas: Usually have fewer contaminants and are less processed.
- Brewing Time: Don’t brew too long. Over-brewing releases more tannins, which can leave a bitter taste and upset your stomach.
- Purpose: Find teas that align with your health goals (peppermint & digestion, green tea & metabolism, chamomile & sleep).
- Limit Sugar: Instead use lemon, cinnamon or a small amount of honey for extra flavor.
- Stay Hydrated: Since caffeine can be dehydrating, balance your tea intake with plenty of water.
Storage
- Store in an airtight container to prevent the absorption of moisture, strong scents or flavors
- Store in an opaque container to protect it from light
- Avoid temperature swings near stoves or windows. Store in a cool, dry place.
- Moisture can damage tea and cause mold growth, so do not store in the refrigerator or freezer.