Craft coffee is the new ‘hot’ trend, but there’s another hot beverage that you should be drinking more of: tea. Because the weather is beginning to get cold for the fall, or for us Texans, slowly starting to get cold, we’ll take a look at how this hot drink is good for you. Tea isn’t just delicious, there are many health benefits of drinking tea you may or may not be aware of. Let’s take a look.
So “What’s the Tea” about Tea?
There is plenty of evidence that shows how herbal teas are a natural remedy for all sorts of ailments. Even non-herbal teas, which contain the leaves of the camellia sinensis plant, contain powerful properties that support our bodily functions. Keep reading for a list of why a tea habit could bring more health to your life.
7 Health Benefits of Drinking Tea
#1. Disease Prevention: Teas are rich in antioxidants, which fight free radical damage from pollution. Green tea in particular contains natural antioxidants, called catechins, that help prevent cell damage. Teas are also rich in polyphenols that help reduce inflammation and fight cancer.
#2. Oral Health: Tea has shown to balance the pH in your mouth, which may slow down tooth loss, decay, and cavities.
#3. Bone Support: Certain teas, like green teas or teas that contain Moringa, offer a healthy dose of calcium, iron, and vitamins A and K, all which support healthy bones
#4. Heart Health: Studies have shown how certain teas can lower the risk of heart attack and stroke. One study showed participants who consumed 2-3 cups of green tea per day had a 20 percent less risk of heart attack and a 35 percent less risk of stroke.
#5. Immune System Support: Many teas, like dandelion and Holy Basil, are known for their immune boosting properties. Chamomile tea, in particular, promotes the production of white blood cells in your body, which is important for fighting off infections.
#6. Digestive Health: Ginger tea is good for soothing nausea and stomach discomfort, and chamomile tea contains antispasmodic properties that can alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
#7. Nutrients and Enzymes: Some teas contain amounts of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, enzymes, and phytonutrients that support the chemical reactions in the body. Phytonutrients provide antioxidants, anti-inflammatory activities, and they also strengthen immunity and intercellular communication.
Want to take on this healthy habit but unsure where to start? Some of the most common healthy teas are: Chamomile, Green, Peppermint, Ginger, and Lemon. Feel free to comment different health benefits of drinking tea that you’ve experienced – we love some positiviTEA.
For other nutrition-packed foods and beverages, read our blogs about pumpkins, cherries, and cranberries. Or like our Hospitality Health ER Tyler Facebook page for automatic notifications of our latest blogs on health, nutrition, and community.