As one of the most favored beverages in the world, tea is second only to water—and for good reason, too. Being a nutritional powerhouse, tea is well known for its bold flavors, calming effects, and range of health benefits. Plus, it’s calorie-free, so you can indulge in a cuppa without guilt. What’s more, a 2022 study found that people who drank tea regularly have a 9 to 13 percent lower risk of death compared to non-drinkers.
From having a remarkable impact on the body, starting from the immune system right up to your mental health, tea is an excellent supplement to a healthy and balanced lifestyle. What really makes this humble cup of tea so powerful, and how does it have such a remarkable impact on the body? Read on to find out!
Rich In Protective Plant Compounds
All types of tea, including black, green, white, and oolong tea, are rich in polyphenols, or protective plant compounds. Regular consumption of polyphenols can help protect cells from damage, thereby reducing the risk of chronic conditions like cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.
Theoflavins in black tea and catechins in green tea are the superstar compounds responsible for most of these incredible health benefits.
Helps To Improve Blood Pressure
Drinking tea increases nitric oxide availability, which relaxes the inner muscles of blood vessels. This helps blood flow more freely, improving how blood vessels function and lowering blood pressure.
Improves Cardiovascular Health
Since tea is rich in polyphenols, it can help reduce the risk of heart disease. Green tea is rich in catechins, which impart a positive effect on cardiovascular outcomes. Moreover, theoflavins and thearubigins, two flavonoids found in tea, can lower LDL cholesterol levels, helping keep the heart healthy.
Helps To Modulate The Body’s Glycaemic Response
The polyphenols in tea can help manage the body’s response to carbohydrates by stimulating insulin release and inhibiting digestion and absorption.
Reduces The Risk Of Diabetes
Polyphenols are known to inhibit digestive enzymes, such as lactase, and to delay glucose uptake in the gut. Therefore, some studies suggest that consistently drinking tea can be as effective as medication in diminishing the risk of diabetes.
Improves Gut Health
Most of the polyphenols in our diet pass to the large intestine unabsorbed, where gut bacteria break them down. This serves as a fuel source for beneficial gut bacteria, allowing them to thrive and diversify, thereby improving gut health and function.
Regular consumption of herbal teas like chamomile, ginger, and peppermint can help reduce stomach issues such as gas and bloating. Since peppermint tea contains menthol, an active ingredient that can calm the gastrointestinal tract, people who experience gut issues can benefit from herbal teas.
Lowers The Risk Of Cancer
While more in-depth studies are needed to confirm this, many researchers suggest that the polyphenols in tea can slow the development of certain cancers. Te contains anti-inflammatory compounds like epigallocatechin, which, in laboratory studies, have shown potential to inhibit cancer cell growth and reduce the risk of some cancers.
Reduces Stress And Anxiety
Tea is commonly seen as a relaxing drink, whereas coffee is considered an energy booster. While both beverages contain caffeine, tea also contains the amino acid L-theanine, which can increase alpha brain waves and promote relaxation. The compound apigenin, found in chamomile tea, binds to brain receptors, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. An excellent way to relax is to set up a quiet corner in your house where you can enjoy a steaming cup of tea, surrounded by aromatic candles and meditative music, for a truly immersive and soothing experience.
Enhances Focus And Attention
A cup of tea contains 25mg of L-theanine, which helps improve focus and concentration. Moreover, coupled with the tea’s caffeine content, it works wonders to enhance focus and attention.
Support Bones Health
Some teas, particularly green tea, are known to help maintain bone density and reduce the risk of fractures. Moreover, the polyphenols in tea can help the body produce more vitamin D and delay bone mineral density loss. It also helps to strengthen bone health and decrease bone loss.
Final Thoughts
There is no doubt that the chemical composition of tea contributes to its myriad health benefits. But it doesn’t stop there; the warmth and aroma of tea engage the senses, promoting relaxation and supporting mental clarity. According to studies, the sensory experiences when drinking tea can reduce anxiety, lower cortisol levels, and improve mindfulness.
Inhaling the aroma of black tea can reduce stress during cognitive tasks, and the fresh scent of peppermint tea can also improve alertness. Moreover, floral teas like chamomile are highly effective for relaxation.
When brewing your tea, be mindful of how it is sweetened and try to limit sources of added sugars. To amp up the flavor, you can add a little mint to green tea and experiment with mild spices, milk, and honey to enhance the nutritional content and the drinking experience.
