In recent years, along with an interest in everything that is natural, we've seen an increase on scientific research regarding the potential benefits of tea on human health.
OltBesides the obvious benefits that tea is an all-natural and low calories drink (if taken without milk or sugar), recent research has shown that tea can help in:
- reducing the risk of cancer
- improve cardiovascular activity
- reduce cholesterol levels
- contribute to oral health, by strengthening tooth enamelk (tea is a natural source of fluor)
- aid in the digestive process and improve the digestive activity in general
Tea is composed of three major chemical components - polyphenols (polyphenols in tea are called flavonoids), caffeine and essential oils. Polyphenols have antioxidant properties that help to neutralize free radicals and inhibit the absorption of cholesterol in the blood. Caffeine acts as a mild stimulant to the heart and circulatory system, helps to intensify the senses of taste and smell, and helps stimulate the digestive juices and metabolism (which helps to eliminate toxins from the body).
A cup of tea usually contains less than half the caffeine of a cup of coffee. The actual level of caffeine depend on the specific blend and the amount of leaves used. In general, green tea contains less caffeine then oolong tea, and in turn oolong tea contains less caffeine than black tea. Tea bags, which normally use smaller pieces of leaves, release caffeine much faster than whole leaves.
Although the benefits of tea on human health have not yet been fully tested, the results of research and study until studies conducted so far are very positive and show that the ancient Chinese beliefs were based on scientific truths.