Eastern societies, such as China and India, have
been drinking tea for its therapeutic properties for centuries. Yet, Western
societies are just beginning to realize its numerous health benefits, as we
become more advanced in our scientific research in the area. Pure teas, such as
black, green, white, and oolong contain antioxidants called flavonoids, which
have been shown to protect the body against cancer, heart disease,
and clogged arteries. Another property of tea that is great for the body
is that it contains caffeine. I'll admit, I'm a caffeine addict, and have been
trying to drink more tea these days, as opposed to coffee. Why tea's caffeine
is better than coffee's caffeine is that tea also contains theanine, which
affects the brain and seems to heighten mental alertness (without the
jittery, trembling, heart racing effect of caffeine).
I have recently began exploring the different
kinds of teas. My husband has always been a black tea drinker (Earl Grey and
the like), while I have typically liked green teas and lighter blends. However,
I found this organic restaurant here in town that serves over 20 different
kinds of teas, and we have really enjoyed learning about and tasting each kind.
Each type of tea has different health benefits. We'll start out with the good
'old favorites, and I'll tell you a little about what they can do for our
bodies:
Black tea (Hubby's choice) has the highest
caffeine content and forms the basis for flavored teas like chai, along with
some instant teas. Studies have shown that black tea may protect lungs from
damage caused by exposure to cigarette smoke. It also may reduce the risk of
stroke. Researchers at Harvard University have found that daily cups of black
tea may strengthen your immune system against colds and flu. Studies have also
shown that black tea relaxes and expands your arteries, increasing blood flow
to the heart, while improving the functioning of the blood vessels and lowering
blood pressure. USDA researchers found that 5 servings of tea a day provided a
significant reduction in the production of LDL or "bad" cholesterol.
The polyphenols in black tea have been found to inhibit the growth of bacteria
in the mouth that can cause bad breath and it can fight cavities by reducing
plaque and controlling bacteria. Healthy skin and bones have also been
attributed to a regular diet of black tea.
Green tea (My fave) is made with steamed tea leaves, it has a high
concentration of EGCG and has been widely studied. Green tea’s antioxidants may
interfere with the growth of bladder, breast, lung, stomach, pancreatic, and
colorectal cancers; prevent clogging of the arteries, burn fat, counteract
oxidative stress on the brain, reduce risk of neurological disorders like
Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, reduce risk of stroke, and improve
cholesterol levels. (On that note, I would like to give a shout out to Red
Diamond tea for gifting me a box of green tea to enjoy during my health kwest.
It is DELISH! I have been drinking it a lot, especially when my allergies are
acting up! Looks like it's helping more than just my allergies though).
White tea is uncured and unfermented. One study
showed that white tea has the most potent anticancer properties compared to
more processed teas. I recently tried a white tea at that local restaurant I
was referring to (because I had a gnarly cold), and the menu said that white
tea contains a rich source of
antioxidants called flavenoids known to help in reducing cholesterol levels and
blood pressure as well as an antibacterial agent to fight infections and colds.
Naturally contains small amounts of fluoride.
Oolong tea (one that I really
don't know much about) shows in an animal study, those given antioxidants from
oolong tea were found to have lower bad cholesterol levels (LDL's). Consumption
assists in hydration and maintenance of essential body fluids, assistance in
weight-loss and it is a source of fluoride for maintenance of healthy gums and
reduces tooth decay. Japanese researchers have also discovered that skin
conditions such as eczema improved in patients who drank Oolong tea every day.
(Sounds like I need to get some Oolong in my diet too!)
Alright, since I'm salivating, I'm going to make
some tea. I hope you've enjoyed my blog, and remember to drink up for your
health!
--Lori
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