Tea has a well-established reputation as a healthy beverage. Thanks to modern marketing, Camellia Sinensis (tea tree) is often shown as a miracle plant. There are claims that it will clear skin, halt cancer, or melt body fat. For the most part, these claims aren’t true. While the research conducted generally supports the idea that tea is good for you, results on specific health benefits are less conclusive. But here are a few benefits of tea that we know for a fact:
Tea is good for your health, especially when it is fresh and naturally grown. It is a nutritious and hydrating beverage. Modern day scientific research has proven tea to contain many healthy compounds. These include antioxidants, L-theanine, and essential minerals like potassium.
True tea, ie. white, green, oolong, black (red) and pu-erh (but not herbal), all come from the leaves of Camellia Sinensis. Although there are some differences in the amounts of caffeine, theanine, and magnesium between tea types, generally all teas contain meaningful amounts of tea phytonutrients.
Flavonoids are dietary compounds found in tea, wine, cocoa, fruit, and vegetables. Tea flavonoids help maintain normal blood vessel function.
Drinking tea regularly can contribute to proper hydration, improves focus and concentration, as well as helps maintain a positive mood throughout the day.
It is known that three or more cups of tea per day may help maintain cardiovascular health. Furthermore, the regular consumption of black tea is associated with a reduced risk of heart disease and a reduced risk of stroke.
There are also studies (though inconclusive – the results vary from Asian to Western populations), that suggest drinking green tea may help maintain a healthy body composition. Tea naturally contains zero calories, therefore, when it is used in place of higher calorie beverages, it can help to control caloric intake which is important for managing weight.
With this in mind, our recommendation is simple. The most beneficial tea is one that you enjoy drinking often, ideally without milk and sugar.
Developing over the past thousand years, tea crafting techniques have produced a huge variety of styles and flavors that are both tasty and healthy. This is particularly helpful if it replaces a less healthy beverage habit, like soda, or increases your water intake overall.
For maximum antioxidant content, look for fresh harvests of whole leaves, without artificial flavors or color.