Recent research shows that drinking tea daily can give you a significant health boost.
A comprehensive one judgement published in the scientific journal Beverage Plant Research highlights how beneficial drinking tea can be for your long-term health.
The analysis, conducted by a team from the Tea Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, reviewed extensive data from both human studies and laboratory research to determine how tea consumption affects everything from your heart to your memory.
Green tea has been the most researched, as the study authors note that less research has been done on white, black and oolong teas.
Extensive benefits of tea
According to the review, drinking tea – especially green tea – is linked to better heart health. Multiple studies have shown that it can lower blood pressure and improve cholesterol.
The analysis links tea drinking to a lower risk of diabetes, certain cancers and obesity. That may be due to the catechins found in the drink.
Catechins are natural compounds found in foods. They are known to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Previous studies have shown that green tea contains more catechins than other types of tea.
Large-scale research also shows that regular tea drinkers are linked to a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and a reduced risk of premature death.
The research shows that regular tea drinkers, especially older adults, show slower cognitive decline and fewer biomarkers linked to Alzheimer’s disease.
Additionally, it can help maintain muscle strength as you age, allowing you to remain physically active longer.
How you drink it matters
The researchers warn that not all tea is equal. To get the most health benefits, avoid processed teas, such as the bottled varieties or bubble tea. They are often full of sugar, preservatives and artificial sweeteners that can negate the health benefits.
There are other potential drawbacks to consider.
Some tea bags can release microplastics into your brewed drink. Contaminants and heavy metals can also be a problem depending on where and how the tea is grown.
Moderation is key, as drinking excessive amounts can lead to problems with caffeine or nutrient absorption.
How do you drink the healthiest cup?
To get the most bang for your buck, it’s best to use freshly brewed tea. Loose-leaf is often the best choice to avoid microplastics from bags.
Keep it simple and skip the sugar and cream.
For more information about the health benefits of tea, see ‘Coffee isn’t the only drink that can prevent dementia.’
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