Why tea is a healthy choice
People all around the world love tea! No matter what the season, tea is a refreshing beverage that can be served iced or hot. Chances are that you’ve heard of the amazing health benefits of green tea. But did you know that black tea has just as many benefits? But its benefits go far beyond refreshment. There is plenty of research showing that drinking tea can contribute to functional wellness.
At the very least, it’s a flavorful way of staying hydrated each day.
Let’s start with the differences
Both green and black teas are made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. The key difference between the two lies in how the leaves are processed. The amount of time the leaves are processed determines whether you end up with a green, black or oolong tea.
To make black tea, the tea leaves are first rolled and then exposed to air to trigger the oxidization or fermentation process. This process causes the leaves to turn dark brown and allows the flavors to intensify.
The green teas are the least processed and tend to have the highest amounts of polyphenols and the only type that contains the polyphenol, catechin, which is why many studies have been done using only green teas. Certain herbal teas are known for their medicinal values, including soothing the digestive system.
During this oxidation/fermentation stage, there are two compounds that form which are unique to black tea, and not found in green tea: theaflavins and thearubigins. These two compounds not only make black tea look and taste different than green tea, but they also are responsible for black tea’s unique health benefits.
TEA CONTAINS ANTIOXIDANTS.
Antioxidants work to prevent the body’s version of rust and thus help to keep us young and protect us from damage from pollution.
TEA HAS LESS CAFFEINE THAN COFFEE.
Most traditional teas have less than 50% of the caffeine level compared to what is typically found in coffee. That means you can consume it without the jitters.
TEA MAY BOOST THE IMMUNE SYSTEM
Studies have shown tea can tune up immune cells so they reach their targets quicker. Many different herbal teas have been used by Ayurvedic practitioners for centuries to help keep the immune system strong after injuries or illnesses thanks to its antibacterial, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties.
TEA MAY SOOTHE THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM
Herbal teas, in particular, chamomile, can be good for people with stomach issues because it is an antispasmodic. And ginger teas can calm nausea.
TEA IS CALORIE FREE
Tea is a great no-calorie alternative to augment your daily water intake. It provides so many options for flavor and versatility. You can have it hot or iced. And with the right teas, you don’t have to put anything in it. That means you’re able to hydrate with something other than water alone.
Get yourself a pouch of Cranberry-licious or Jasmine Bliss and you'll never get bored — or miss the sugar. With all-natural flavors like cranberry, hibiscus, and jasmine you can easily keep your palate pleased.