Drinking Tea is an ancient and popular beverage practice that is not only a cultural symbol but also favored for its numerous health benefits. From psychological to physiological, tea has broad and positive effects on the body. Let's delve into these benefits in more detail.
I. The Benefits of Drinking Tea
1. Impact on Mental Health
Relief from Anxiety and Stress: Amino acids and polyphenols in tea can help alleviate tension and anxiety, improving mood.
Stimulation and Focus: The Caffeine in tea can enhance alertness, improve focus and cognitive agility, aiding productivity.
Relaxation and Tranquility: Brewing a cup of tea and savoring its aroma and taste is a relaxing process that helps regulate emotions and brings peace and calm.
2. Health Benefits for the Body
Antioxidants and Immune Boost: Polyphenols and vitamin C in tea have powerful antioxidant effects, helping to eliminate free radicals and strengthen the immune system.
Digestive Aid: Some teas like oolong and Black Tea can promote intestinal motility, improve digestion, and relieve stomach discomfort.
Cardiovascular Health: Drinking tea is associated with lowering blood pressure and improving lipid profiles, supporting cardiovascular health.
Aiding Weight Loss: Caffeine and polyphenols in tea can accelerate metabolism and promote fat breakdown, contributing to weight loss efforts.
II. How to Drink Tea for Better Health?
Drinking tea is not just about consuming a beverage; it's a way to promote well-being. Proper tea consumption can bring many benefits to the body, but how can one drink tea healthily and effectively?
1. Choosing High-Quality Tea
Tea Quality: Choose fresh, high-quality teas such as freshly picked green tea or premium oolong tea, which better preserve the nutritional components of the tea.
Tea Variety: Different types of tea have unique properties. Green tea is rich in polyphenols, aiding in antioxidant effects; black tea contains abundant anthocyanins, beneficial for cardiovascular health; oolong tea aids digestion, so choose the type of tea that suits your needs.
2. Mastering Tea Brewing Techniques
Water Temperature and Time: Different types of tea are suitable for different water temperatures and brewing times. For example, green tea is generally brewed at 80°C to 85°C for 2-3 minutes; dark tea or black tea requires boiling water and can be steeped for a slightly longer time.
Amount of Tea: Control the amount of tea used; too much can make the tea too strong, affecting both taste and health effects.
3. Establishing Healthy Drinking Habits
Moderate Consumption: Drink tea in moderation; excessive Tea drinking can lead to excessive caffeine intake, causing discomfort. Generally, adults should limit their daily caffeine intake to below 400 milligrams.
Avoid Drinking on an Empty Stomach: Drinking tea on an empty stomach may irritate the stomach. It's best to drink tea 30 minutes to an hour after a meal or with some food.
4. Considering Individual Constitution
Individual Differences: People react differently to tea components. Those sensitive to caffeine should drink moderately or avoid high-caffeine teas in the evening.
Selecting Teas Based on Needs: Choose tea types based on personal needs. For example, someone feeling anxious might benefit from a cup of Chrysanthemum tea, which helps relax the mind.
5. Storage and Preservation of Tea
Dry Storage: Store tea in a dry, ventilated area away from sunlight and odors.
Airtight Storage: Use airtight containers to store tea, protecting it from oxygen and moisture.
Tea is not just a beverage but also a way to promote well-being. Choosing high-quality teas, mastering brewing techniques, developing healthy drinking habits, and considering individual constitution are all key to enjoying the health benefits of tea.