The second most widely consumed beverage in the world, black tea is rich in antioxidants and can have numerous health benefits.
Even though we’ve been drinking tea for over 5,000 years, researchers are still discovering the full power of black tea. We take stock!
Black tea is rich in antioxidants
The benefits associated with most teas come from polyphenols, antioxidants that offer protection against many chronic diseases. However, black tea stands out for its theaflavins, a type of polyphenol that no other tea possesses!
A study in mice examined the role of theaflavins and thearubigins in black tea. The results showed that these antioxidants reduced cholesterol and blood sugar levels!
Black tea promotes heart health
Black tea is a real natural remedy! In fact, theaflavins help reduce blood cholesterol. And flavonoids – the same antioxidants found in red wine, dark chocolate and nuts – reduce the risk of heart disease by 8%.
« Studies show that with every cup of tea you drink daily, you can reduce your blood pressure, risk of major cardiovascular events (such as heart attacks and strokes) and risk of death from heart disease. » states UCLA Health.
Black tea boosts cognition and reduces the risk of stroke
The caffeine present in black tea can provide an energy boost and improve mental alertness! Black tea also contains an amino acid called L-theanine. This combination can help boost concentration and reduce mental fatigue.
Stroke is the second leading cause of death worldwide. Drinking black tea can help reduce the risk of stroke.
In fact, according to UCLA Health « Studies show that drinking at least two cups of tea a day can reduce the risk of stroke by 16% compared to people who don’t drink it ».
Black tea lowers blood sugar levels
As you know, consuming large quantities of sugar, particularly sweetened beverages, increases blood sugar levels and the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Instead of sugar-filled drinks, choose black tea! Numerous studies suggest that drinking this type of tea can help reduce blood sugar levels after a meal or snack!
The researchers also found that daily black tea drinkers had a 15% lower risk of pre-diabetes and a 28% lower risk of type 2 diabetes than non-black tea drinkers.
Good to know
« Drinking at least two cups of black tea a day reduces the risk of death from any cause by almost 13% compared with non-tea drinkers, » says a recent study published in Annals of Internal Medicine.