Black tea is one of the most common teas in the world. At its origin Chinese, it is often called “red tea” in various parts of Asia and became known as “black tea” in the western world due to the tea leaves’ actual color. Nowadays, there are various types of black tea, either left in their natural “unblended” state or blended with other plants. The beauty of enjoying black tea is that it comes in a variety of flavors and you’ll be certain to find one that appeals to your tastes and palate.
Disclaimer: Remember, everything you eat and drink should be consumed in moderation! Although there are many health benefits to black tea, consuming too much (more than six cups a day) could actually lead to negative effects on your overall health.
- Contains plenty of antioxidants: Vital for health and wellness, antioxidants encourage a strong immune system, disable free radicals and improve cardiovascular health. The polyphenols found in tea and can provide you with essential nutrients that may not be found in antioxidants usually found in fruit. Antioxidants decrease the risk of DNA damage- a 2004 study showed black tea may help suppress the formation of cancer cells.
- Increased Alertness: Black tea has about 42 mg of caffeine. The awakening effect caffeine has on the body can make you more alert and enable you to work more efficiently in your workplace. This will give you plenty of energy in both social and work situations.
- Increased Concentration: Though it may seem contradictory, studies have shown that black tea has both relaxing and stimulating effects on the brain. The relaxing effects reduce stress but the stimulating effects keep your mind engaged and focused, preventing your mind from wandering, especially when you’re trying to accomplish a goal or finish a project.
- Increases immune system functionality: The daily consumption of black tea helps to boost your immune system. Black tea contains alkylamine antigens and tannins that fight viruses and bacteria to keep us from getting sick. In a study, participants who drank 20 ounces (the equivalent of approximately three cups) of black tea per day produced five times the amount of certain germ-fighting immune cells as those who drank the same amount of water.
- Increased energy: The presence of caffeine in tea is not only a fleeting burst. In fact, caffeine is a vasodilator, meaning the blood vessels open up and can enhance blood flow, supplying the brain and the body with more oxygen (and therefore energy) to accomplish activities. With more energy, you are less likely to skip a workout or eat unhealthy foods to make you feel better. You already feel great and ready to take on the day!
- Heightened Relaxation: A 2006 study found that black tea helps people to relax to a homeostatic state after exposure to stressful situations. Stress increases the risk of a number of health problems, including muscular pain, heart problems, and headaches, so reducing it has a significant positive effect on health.
- Can Reduce cardiovascular problems: Several studies over the years have linked increased consumption of black tea to decreased cardiovascular problems, including protecting against endothelial dysfunction. In fact, those who consume 3 cups of tea a day or found to be 21 percent less likely to endure a stroke.
- Improves oral health: The catechin antioxidants in black tea can help in the reduction of oral cancers. Polyphenols and tannin act as antibiotics that fight bacteria that cause tooth decay. A study conducted in 2005 by the International Society for Environmental Toxicology and Cancer found that black tea is effective in combating leukoplakia, a benign cancer of the gums.
- Can aid in healthy weight Loss: For people looking to lose weight in a healthy way black tea is a good option. It is low in sodium, fat, and calories and boosts metabolic activity. Black tea can serve as a substitute for juices and sodas.
- Natural ingredients: Black tea is made by oxygenating the leaves of a plant called Camellia sinensis, so all of the chemicals present in this tea are naturally occurring and are processed easily by the body.
