Steeping towards health: the science behind tea's benefits on life
Tea is the world's second most popular drink after water. Its positive effects on health are scientifically proven. It enhances concentration, contains many antioxidants and vitamins, and regulates cholesterol levels. What types of tea should one drink, and how much should one drink to unlock its positive effects on the human body?
Drinking tea is a daily tradition around the world. Many people can't imagine a day without a cup of their favourite brew. The most popular variety is black tea. However, the reputation and frequency of drinking green, red, and white varieties of this leafy plant's brews are steadily increasing.
Properties of Tea
Undoubtedly, the ease of preparation and the unique taste contribute to the popularity of tea worldwide. It's worth remembering that tea is also very healthy. In one cup, you can find many vitamins and mineral components. These include vitamins A, those from the B group, vitamins C and K, theine (caffeine), potassium, fluoride, copper, zinc, manganese, calcium, and fluoride.
Tea also contains essential antioxidants for human health. These are polyphenols, flavonoids, and catechins. Also called antioxidants, they counteract the harmful influence of free radicals and exhibit anti-inflammatory effects. Two cups of tea contain more antioxidants than a glass of red wine or four apples.
In 2022, the American government institution National Institutes of Health published the results of studies conducted on half a million people. Scientists confirmed that the risk of death is even 13% lower among those who drink at least two cups of tea daily compared with those who do not.
How many times a day should you drink tea?
Two to three cups of tea a day will positively impact our health. Regular consumption of its brew improves concentration and regulates cholesterol. Tea has a warming and stimulating effect. It improves digestion and regulates the development of bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract.
The list of benefits of drinking tea is long. Cystatin contained in the brew thins the blood and has anticoagulant effects. Frequent tea drinking reduces the risk of stroke.
However, it's important to maintain moderation in both the quantity and strength of the brew. Drinking more than four teas a day is not recommended. The best time to drink a brew is an hour after a meal. It's also important to focus on drinking quality tea.
