Drinking Pu'er Tea has benefits such as nourishing and protecting the stomach, aiding digestion, relieving constipation, weight loss, reducing cholesterol, anti-aging, and antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. Pu'er tea is the only post-Fermented tea, and its Caffeine and polyphenols are broken down over a long period of post-fermentation. The benefits of drinking Pu'er tea include:
1. Nourishing and protecting the stomach, aiding digestion, and relieving constipation: Pu'er tea is rich and full-bodied, forming a protective layer in the gastrointestinal tract that protects the stomach and intestines. Therefore, drinking Pu'er tea at an appropriate concentration will not irritate the gastric mucosa but instead protect it. Pu'er tea can also promote gastrointestinal movement, aid digestion, prevent constipation, and improve gastrointestinal function with regular consumption.
2. Weight loss and reducing cholesterol: Long-term consumption of Pu'er tea can reduce cholesterol and triglycerides, promoting metabolism and accelerating the breakdown and transformation of body fat. It can also enhance vascular contraction, preventing atherosclerosis. This makes it beneficial for obesity, hypertension, coronary heart disease, and cerebral arteriosclerosis.
3. Anti-aging: The catechins contained in Pu'er tea have anti-aging effects, with a higher total content than other tea varieties, making its anti-aging properties superior to those of other teas.
4. Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory: The bioactive components in Pu'er tea have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help eliminate bad breath and protect teeth.
Precautions when drinking Pu'er tea
1. Do not drink on an empty stomach
Pu'er tea contains large amounts of caffeine and theobromine. Drinking it on an empty stomach can lead to “tea intoxication,” causing symptoms such as gastrointestinal discomfort, weakness in limbs, and mental confusion. Therefore, do not drink Pu'er tea on an empty stomach, especially strong tea. Drinking light salt water or honey water in the morning on an empty stomach is a healthier way to lose weight and cleanse the bowels.
2. Drink less new tea
New Pu'er tea has undergone less post-fermentation time, containing higher levels of caffeine and active alkaloids, which can easily stimulate the nervous system and gastric mucosa. Therefore, drink less new tea; occasional tasting is acceptable. Freshly purchased Pu'er tea should be stored at home for two to three months. Not only will the taste and flavor improve, but the impact on your health will also be minimized.
3. Do not drink large quantities before or after meals
Do not drink large amounts of Pu'er tea before or after meals, as the tannic acid and theobromine in tea can affect the digestive system. The best time to drink tea is at least half an hour before or after meals. Light tea is recommended, avoiding strong brews. Drinking Tea this way is healthier.
4. Do not drink before sleeping
Avoid drinking Pu'er tea after 9 p.m., as it can cause excitement and disrupt sleep. Additionally, it increases the burden on the kidneys and can result in unsightly eye bags.
5. Do not drink during special periods
The nature of raw Pu'er tea is relatively cold. Women should drink less during “menstruation, pregnancy, and lactation.” It should also be avoided when taking medication.
While there are many benefits to drinking Pu'er tea, it is not advisable to drink overly concentrated Pu'er tea, as it can stimulate the nervous system, heart, digestive tract, and urinary system, leading to excessive nervous stimulation, accelerated heart rate, exacerbated digestive ulcers, frequent urination, and other issues. Drinking tea on an empty stomach can dilute stomach acid, inhibit gastric juice secretion, hinder digestion, and cause symptoms such as palpitations, headaches, gastric discomfort, dizziness, irritability, and “tea intoxication,” as well as interfere with protein absorption. Drinking Pu'er tea late at night should also be avoided to prevent insomnia.