For centuries, tea has been enjoyed as a comforting and refreshing beverage, whether sipped alone or shared with guests. But did you know that it also offers a variety of potential health benefits?
From reducing the risk of heart disease to improving your mental focus, drinking tea may have a positive impact on your overall health and wellbeing.
5 ways it can reduce your health risks
It has antioxidant properties
One of the main benefits of drinking tea is its antioxidant properties.
Tea contains polyphenols and antioxidants which help protect the body from damage caused by harmful molecules called free radicals. These can contribute to the development of chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.
Green tea, in particular, is high in polyphenols called catechins – potent antioxidants which could reduce the risk of these diseases.
May lower your risk of heart disease
Several studies have shown that drinking tea, especially green tea, may help lower cholesterol levels, reduce blood pressure and improve blood vessel function, all of which can contribute to a lower risk of heart disease.
One study found that drinking green tea for 12 weeks significantly lowered LDL cholesterol levels (the ‘bad’ cholesterol) in people with high cholesterol.
Another study found that people who drank three cups of tea per day had a 20% lower risk of heart disease than those who didn't drink tea.
May lower your risk of cancer
Research suggests that drinking tea may help to reduce the risk of certain types of cancer. For example, one study found that women who drank green tea had a 22% lower risk of breast cancer than those who didn't drink tea.
Other studies have suggested that drinking tea may also help reduce the risk of lung, prostate, and colorectal cancer.
However, more research is needed to confirm these findings and determine the optimal amount and type of tea for cancer prevention.
May lower your risk of diabetes
Some research indicates that drinking tea may help to reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing inflammation.
Green tea, in particular, has been shown to help improve glucose metabolism and reduce insulin resistance. A study found that people who drank green tea for eight weeks had significant improvements in insulin sensitivity compared to those who didn't drink green tea.
May help to reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases
Drinking tea may help to reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Tea contains compounds with neuroprotective properties, which may help protect the brain from damage and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.
One research study found that drinking tea was associated with a lower risk of cognitive impairment in older adults. Another found that drinking green tea may help improve cognitive function in people with mild cognitive impairment.
5 ways tea can also improve your wellbeing
Can provide clearer mental focus
Tea contains caffeine, a natural stimulant which can help improve mental focus and alertness. The amount of caffeine in tea is generally lower than in coffee, so it may provide a milder, calmer energy boost.
Additionally, tea contains an amino acid called L-theanine, which has been shown to promote relaxation and reduce stress. When combined with caffeine, L-theanine can help to improve cognitive performance and mental clarity, particularly in middle-aged and older people.
Can aide with digestion
Certain types of tea, such as 'ginger' and 'peppermint', have been shown to help improve digestion and reduce stomach discomfort. Find these at Blooms The Chemist - Windsor Marketplace.
Peppermint tea may help relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a common digestive disorder which can cause abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhoea or constipation.
One study found that people with IBS who drank peppermint tea experienced significant reductions in abdominal pain and bloating.
Can keep you hydrated
Drinking tea can help to keep you hydrated, which is important for maintaining healthiness and overall wellbeing.
While some people may believe that drinking tea can be dehydrating because it contains caffeine, research has shown that the water content in tea more than offsets any potential diuretic effect.
Drinking tea may be an especially good option for people who don't enjoy drinking plain water, as it can help them stay hydrated while also providing a range of potential health benefits.
Can support your immune system
Tea contains compounds called catechins, which have antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.
These properties may help support the immune function and reduce the risk of infections.
Drinking tea has been associated with a lower risk of flu and other respiratory infections and may help to improve immune function in people with autoimmune diseases.
May provide weight-loss benefits
Drinking tea may have potential weight-loss benefits due to the presence of compounds which may help boost the metabolism and increase fat-burning. This could potentially aid in weight loss; however, drinking tea alone is unlikely to result in significant weight loss.
Whether enjoyed hot or cold, tea can be a refreshing and satisfying beverage that also offers a range of potential health benefits.
Opt for high-quality loose-leaf teas and avoid adding sugar or other sweeteners that can negate those benefits.
What are you waiting for? It's time for tea!
Tea can help you meet your daily fluid recommendations and is also a source of antioxidants, but it should be drank in moderation.
It's important to remember that the size of the cup you're drinking tea out of, the strength of your tea and your family health history can all play a part as to whether or not you see the benefits of tea-drinking.
However, if you want a cosy way to warm up and already drink tea, you may be getting health benefits you weren't aware of.
Reference: https://www.bloomsthechemist.com.au/articles/more-reasons-to-drink-tea-this-winter-/