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Benefits
of Tea
"Tea
tempers the spirit and harmonizes the mind, dispels lassitude and
relieves fatigue; awakens thought and prevents drowsiness...Its liquor
is like the sweetest dew of heaven."
Lu Yu, Ch'a Ching (The Classic of Tea) 780AD
Definitions
Antioxidants:
Antioxidants block the formation of destructive oxygen molecules called
free radicals. Free radicals, naturally occurring oxidants in the body,
play a part in degenerative diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
Antioxidants work to prevent damage to DNA and stop the formation of
carcinogens. Some forms of antioxidants include beta-carotene, vitamin
E, and vitamin C. Scientists have recently discovered other compounds
found in plants which also act as antioxidants. These compounds are
called phytochemicals and are found in fruits, vegetables and all types
of tea.
Phytochemicals:
Naturally occurring compounds found in many foods like broccoli, carrots
and tea. They may have a role in lessening risk of cancer, lowering
blood cholesterol and boosting the immune system.
Polyphenols:
One form of phytochemicals that are unusually high in tea (up to 36% of
dry weight). Polyphenols are believed to be effective antioxidants and
may be responsible for disposing of cancer-causing agents.
Flavonoids:
Another form of phytochemicals.
Catechins:
A type of flavonoid found in tea that function as antioxidants. While
catechins are found in black and oolong tea, it seems to be more
abundant in green tea. Catechins are currently considered the most
beneficial polyphenol.
Theaflavins:
A form of polyphenol that are produced from catechins during the
manufacturing of black tea. They are believed to be an antioxidant and
could play a role in prevention of diseases like cancer and reduce the
effects of aging caused by oxidants.
Health
Benefits
"Current
research shows that tea contains powerful specific antioxidants and
health promoting ingredients, lowering the risk of heart disease,
stroke, and certain types of cancer. Tea drinking [as] part of a healthy
life style...can contribute to good health."
John Weisburger, PH.D., American Health Foundation
Fluid
Balance:
While most benefits of tea still require further scientific research,
there is universal acceptance in tea's role in maintaining fluid
balance. Water plays a critical role in regulating body temperature,
transporting nutrients and hormones to cells, and cushioning of the
joints. You may of heard the adage to drink 64 ounces of water each day?
This is why - to make up for the loss of water we lose each day through
normal body processes. Tea helps to achieve that goal.
Cancer:
A National Cancer Institute study found that both green and black tea
protected human and animal cells from turning cancerous and discouraged
established cancer cells from multiplying. Now, scientists are testing
tea extracts much as they would a drug. Most studies seem to find a
reduction of risk particularly in lung, colon and skin cancer. These
results are promising and we wait for further human-based studies to
confirm this information.
Heart
Disease:
Studies in animals suggest that tea can lower serum cholesterol levels
and lower blood pressure. Tea also contains flavonoids which help to
keep arteries clear. In a study of elderly men, drinking tea appeared to
play a part with a lower number of deaths from coronary heart disease.
Stroke:
Polyphenols from green tea seem to lower blood pressure. In stroke-prone
rats, life expectancy has been extended. In a Dutch study, men drinking
more than four cups of tea per day were associated with a 69% reduced
risk of stroke.
Fluoride
and Oral Care:
Tea is a natural source of fluoride. It has also been found to prevent
cavities and gum disease by discouraging plaque. Plaque is a combination
of various forms of bacteria that grows in your mouth and sticks to your
teeth, breaking down the enamel, creating tooth decay and gingivitis.
The polyphenols found in tea prevent bacteria from growing. Tea also
seems to prevent a bacterial enzyme that turns sugar into a sticky
substance that allows plaque to stick to the teeth. While both black and
green tea has the polyphenols to keep your teeth healthy, green tea
seems to have more fluoride than black teas. Don't give up your regular
dental hygiene plan but a cup or glass of tea would certainly help.
Caffeine:
A natural component of tea, coffee and cocoa, caffeine is also added to
some soft drinks and medications. Caffeine is generally safe when
consumed in low quantities. Tea has a mere 40mg per cup compared to 80mg
in coffee. These levels are dependent on the blends and strength of a
brew. Tea can be naturally decaffeinated right at home
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