Benefits and effects of black tea:
1. Reduces fat and aids weight loss
Polyphenols in black tea dissolve fat and accelerate its breakdown, earning it names like "slimming tea" in Korea and "beauty tea" in Japan.
2. Antioxidant and anti-aging
Compounds like catechins and theaflavins in black tea combat free radicals, delaying cell aging.
3. Improves digestion
Rich in dietary fiber, black tea regulates gut health and aids digestion, traditionally used to treat bloating and indigestion.
4. Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory
Theaflavins in black tea inhibit bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and even some viruses.
5. Supports cardiovascular health
Black tea softens blood vessels, lowers cholesterol, and regulates blood pressure and sugar levels.
6. Detoxifies liver and kidneys
It purges toxins like alcohol and heavy metals, protecting organs.
7. Diuretic and detoxifying
Caffeine in black tea promotes urination, aiding alcohol metabolism and neutralizing toxins like nicotine.
Nutritional value
Theaflavins and thearubigins in black tea offer antioxidant and antimicrobial benefits, also aiding weight management.
Precautions for drinking black tea
1. Avoid new tea
Fresh tea may irritate the stomach due to unoxidized compounds.
2. Skip the first brew
The initial wash removes pesticide residues from tea leaves.
3. Don’t drink on an empty stomach
It may cause dizziness or nausea by rapidly absorbing into the bloodstream.
4. Avoid post-meal tea
Tannins in green tea hinder iron absorption; drink tea an hour after eating.
5. Avoid during fever
Tea raises body temperature, worsening fever.
6. Ulcer patients should avoid
Caffeine increases stomach acid, risking ulcer perforation.
7. Avoid during menstruation
Tea may exacerbate menstrual symptoms.