05/05/2012
The Health Benefits Of Tea
Numerous health benefits have been attributed to tea since time immemorial. In folk medicine, the health benefits of tea were already recognized 5000 years ago and it was used as a treatment for infectious diseases, colds, and also as an aid to the digestive and nervous systems.
Upon the expansion of scientific research in this field, more and more facts have accumulated testifying to the connection between regular tea consumption and lower chances of suffering from a wide variety of diseases, including cancer and cardiovascular disease.
The main advantage of tea lies in the fact that it is a completely natural product. Likewise, when drunk without adding any sugar, honey or milk, tea has no calories and simultaneously serves as a crucial component for maintaining the balance of body liquids.
Research Into The Health Benefits Of Tea1. Strengthen your immune system and reduce your risk of cancer
Tea contains catechins, an antioxidant that boosts the immune system. Vitamin H, also known as biotin, is present in teas and also assists with a healthy immune system. In addition, tea contains flavonoids, a type of antioxidant that assists in the prevention of cellular damage, cardiovascular disease, skin disease and UV-induced DNA damage.
2. Prevent tooth decay and fight bad breath
The fluoride in tea assists in preventing cavities. The catechins, or antioxidants, help to prevent halitosis. Catechins kill bacteria in the mouth. Tea contains calcium and magnesium, which work together to form healthy bones and teeth.
3. Build stronger bones
Tea contains vitamin D, which helps build bones. Also, the amino acids that are present in tea help form proteins in the body to build muscle, bone, skin and hair, as well as combat bacteria and viruses. Women who are experiencing menopause are usually told to eliminate caffeine because it causes bone loss; however, tea does not contain as much caffeine as coffee and may still be enjoyed. (Be sure to check with your doctor first.) Alternatively, try decaffeinated tea.
4. Protect your heart
The antioxidant in green tea, EGCg, speeds up the recovery of heart cells and minimizes cell death after a heart attack or stroke. Green tea is also associated with a reduced risk of coronary artery disease because its high quantity of antioxidants, namely flavonoids, may reduce the amount of cholesterol in the artery wall. Tea acts as an anti-inflammatory and improves blood vessel function.
5. Prevent aging and cleanse your intestines
Tea helps with the antioxidation of cells because it contains vitamin E and antioxidants, and is therefore beneficial in slowing down the aging process. Catechins kill bacteria in the intestine while maintaining a healthy immune system and preventing illnesses such as gastric ulcers and arteriosclerosis. Tannins in tea help to calm the stomach and cleanse the intestinal tract.
6. Reduce your risk of ovarian cancer
A Swedish study published in December 2005 claims that drinking two or more cups of tea a day can reduce your risk of developing ovarian cancer by 46 per cent. The 15-year study involved just over 60,000 Swedish women.
7. Eliminate body fat
Antioxidants called catechins are highest in green tea and found in low doses in black tea. Catechins act as "fat blockers," especially of abdominal fat. In the digestive tract, catechins reduce the absorption of dietary fats by inhibiting the body's ability to break them down. Catechins also act as "fat burners" by activating the enzymes in the body that metabolize stored fat.
8. Boost memory and reduce your risk of Alzheimer's disease
An antioxidant in green tea called EGCg may help to protect the brain against developing Alzheimer's disease. EGCg decreases the production of a protein called beta amyloid, which can form into insoluble plaque and degrade nerve cells in the brain.
