Throughout the world, tea is the second most consumed beverage after water. All the different varieties of tea come from the same plant, Camellia Sinesis. The different ways in which the plant is harvested and processed, produce different type of tea, Black Tea being one among them. Black Tea is also often blended with other plants such as English Breakfast and Earl Grey giving it a diverse flavor and aroma. It is also known for its caffeine content as it contains more caffeine than its counterparts such as green or white tea. However, the caffeine content in Black Tea is far less as compared to coffee.
Black tea offers a variety of health benefits because it contains antioxidants and compounds that can help reduce inflammation in the body. There are several other health benefits that are associated with Black Tea. Here is a look at some amazing benefits of drinking Black Tea.
Rich in antioxidants
Black Tea is a good source of antioxidants, which help to remove free radicals. According to a study published in Pharmacognosy Reviews, a medical journal, phenolic compounds, which have antioxidant effects, constitute up to 30% of the dry weight of green and black tea. Thus, Black Tea can help remove free radicals and decrease cell damage in the body. This ultimately may help decrease the risk of chronic disease.
Reduces the risk of cancer
Recent studies conducted by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) suggest that the polyphenols present in Black Tea may decrease the risk of tumor growth. In particular, it reduce the risk of skin, breast, lung, and prostate cancers.
Good for hair and skin
The antioxidants and other phytonutrients in Black Tea help in eliminating the toxins from the body, and kick start the healing process. It is good for skin as it helps the body to fight against skin infections and blemishes. It also helps delay ageing and reduces puffiness.
Improves heart health
Black Tea contains antioxidants called flavonoids, which benefit heart health. Consuming it on a regular basis may help reduce many risk factors for heart disease, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, elevated triglyceride levels and obesity.
Protects against atherosclerosis
Atherosclerosis refers to a buildup of plaque in the walls of arteries. This can lead to coronary heart disease, stroke, and chronic kidney disease. A 2002 study conducted by the American Chemical Society on hamsters suggested that consuming Black Tea or green tea at human equivalent doses might prevent the development of atherosclerosis.
Lowers bad LDL cholesterol
Too much of LDL in the body can build up in the arteries and cause waxy deposits called plaques. This can lead to problems like heart failure or stroke. A study published in the Encyclopedia of Food and Health found that drinking five servings of Black Tea per day reduced LDL cholesterol by 11% in individuals with slightly or mildly elevated cholesterol levels. It concluded that Black Tea helped improve cholesterol levels in individuals at risk for heart disease or obesity.
Improves focus and concentration
Black Tea contains caffeine and a type of amino acid called the L-theanine, which can help improve alertness and focus. Beverages containing a combination of L-theanine and caffeine enhances the alpha activity in brain and have a greater impact on focus and alertness.
Enhances gut health
Consumption of Black Tea helps maintain a healthy gut health by stimulating the growth of good bacteria and preventing the growth of bad bacteria. Moreover, it contains antimicrobial properties that kill gut bacteria and repair the walls of the digestive tract.
Protects against diabetes
Researches have suggested that consuming Black Tea might help reduce the risk of diabetes. In a study published in the Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition, people with type 2 diabetes consumed different amounts of Black Tea extract over a period of 4 weeks. It concluded that regular consumption of it might have antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects for people with this condition.
Helps in oral health
Black Tea also reduces plaque formation and restricts bacterial growth. The polyphenols present in it suppresses cavity-causing bacteria that hinder the growth of bacterial enzymes that form the sticky-like material that binds plaque to our teeth.
