11 Medically Proven Health Benefits of Tea

Oh, tea! When we think of tea some of us may imagine a still, chilly morning with a kettle whistling in the kitchen. Other times we may envision a group of mid – elderly individuals occupying various seats at a table positioned outside a café, located just at the very tip of another noisy street corner. But what exactly are the health benefits of tea? That’s what we want to touch on today.

It’s a given that with tea, depending on the blend, will come different benefits. Not all teas are the same. Not all teas will fully revitalize your body.

In fact, most times a certain blend of tea will target specific areas while missing certain qualities its counterpart might possess. However, in the next few paragraphs, we will touch on 11 medically proven benefits most teas will contribute to your health.

1. Antioxidants 

What are antioxidants? Antioxidants, as stated by MedlinePlus, are ‘’man-made or natural substances that may prevent or delay some types of cell damage. Antioxidants are found in many foods, including fruits and vegetables. They are also available as dietary supplements.’’ Some examples of antioxidants include the following: 

Beta-carotene: Eventually converted into vitamin A—an essential vitamin. 

Lutein: Related to beta-carotene and vitamin A. It is generally thought of as the ‘’eye vitamin,’’ as it is widely known to prevent eye diseases such as macular degeneration (AMD), cataracts, retinitis, and pigmentosa. Some people use it to prevent colon cancer, breast cancer, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. 

Lycopene: Is recognized to ‘’quench’’ free radicals that are known to cause damage to cells. 

Selenium: Known to reduce stress and fight chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer. 

Vitamin A: Important for growth and development, including maintenance of the immune system. 

Vitamin C: Provides protection against immune system deficiencies, cardiovascular disease, prenatal health problems eye disease, and skin wrinkling. 

Vitamin E: Supports immune function, prevents inflammation, and lowers the risk of cancer. 

2. Less caffeine than coffee 

As stated in an article published by Today: ‘’Herbal blends have no caffeine while traditional teas have less than 50 percent of what typically is found in coffee.’’

Additional tip: If you’re longing to erase your coffee drinking habits, try Teeccino and Chicory root blends. Not only do they give you the same energetic kick that coffee does, but Teeccino in-particular tastes a bit similar to coffee. 

3. May reduce risk of heart attack and stroke 

A lot of research has been done on this topic at hand. In fact, it is most recognized that there is a deep connection between tea and the heart.

As stated in an article published by Heart MD Institute: ‘’Specific to the heart, green tea contains theobromine, which relaxes the blood vessel walls and improves circulation. More importantly, green tea is rich in antioxidant flavonoids like epigallocatechin 3-gallate (EGCG), which helps protect the body against free radical damage and arterial disease.’’

4. May help protect bones

As stated in an article published by Today: ‘’Data from recent animal studies has shown that green tea may prevent bone loss. Moringa, a plant that’s native to South Asia, has been known for its medicinal properties and is now quickly becoming a mainstream superfood. With more calcium than milk, as well as iron, vitamin A and K, morning tea is a great addition to help keep those bones strong.’’

5. Fights inflammation 

As stated in an article published by Healthline: ‘’Many of the plant compounds in tea leaves do make it into the final drink, which contains large amounts of important nutrients. Tea is rich in polyphenols that have effects like reducing inflammation and helping to fight cancer.’’ 

Green tea, in particular, is recognized to carry large mounts of catechin—which are natural antioxidants that help prevent cell damage.  

6. Keeps you hydrated

It’s true! As stated in an article published by Nursing Degree: ”Conventional wisdom held that caffeinated beverages actually dehydrated you more than they hydrated you. Recent research has shown however, that caffeine doesn’t make a difference unless you consume more than 5 to 6 cups at a time. Tea has been shown to actually be more healthy for you than water alone because it hydrates while providing antioxidants.”

Isn’t that neat? 

7. Lowers stress and hormone levels 

Black tea, in particular, has been known to reduce the effects of a traumatic event. Green tea on-the-other-hand contains amino acids that have been proven to produce a calming effect on your body. 

Although research doesn’t fully support the popular belief, it is said by many that the smell of herbs personally makes them feel more content, further revitalizing their energy and mood.

8. Lowers cholesterol levels 

As stated in an article published by Nursing Degree: ”A recent study in China has shown that the combination of a low-fat diet and tea produced on average a 16% drop in bad cholesterol over 12 weeks when compared to a control group simply on a low-fat diet.” 

Certain teas that are especially known to reduce cholesterol levels include black, green, white, and oolong. 

9. Lowers blood pressure 

Better known as hypertension, high blood pressure levels can lead to a variety of major health concerns. This includes but not limited to heart attack and stroke. Hibiscus tea, in particular, is known to contain antioxidant compounds known as anthocyanins, which may have anti-cancer and cholesterol-lowering properties. 

10. Reduce stomach cramps

Heating pads and hot baths not doing you much justice during your menstrual cycle? Try chamomile, ginger, or raspberry leaf tea. 

You can learn more about the benefits of these three blends here. 

11. Lowers blood sugar 

As stated by Pacific College of Oriental Medicine: ”High blood levels of glucose and insulin predispose people to diabetes and cardiovascular disease, and are associated with accelerated aging. For many people, sugar is the primary culprit in the accumulation of body fat.”

It has been scientifically proven that the amount of polyphenols and polysaccharides properties found in green tea are effective at lowering blood sugar. Furthermore, in a recent study green tea extract was shown to reduce glucose and insulin levels when more than 50 grams of starch were injected.

Looking for more useful lifestyle tips? Go here: Nxt Modern Wellness