Benefits of Drinking Tea

Drinking more tea has many benefits. According to the latest reports from foreign media, drinking three cups of tea a day can provide various anti-disease and health benefits. Experts suggest one cup in the morning, one at noon, and one in the evening, steeping the tea for at least 5 minutes to allow the active ingredients to dissolve in hot water. Both black tea and green tea contain a variety of health-promoting antioxidants. Due to the protein in milk, adding milk to tea can enhance its health benefits, but adding sugar does not have this effect.

1. Lower Risk of Stroke

A 15-year study in the Netherlands found that regularly drinking black tea without milk can reduce the risk of stroke. U.S. research found that the polyphenols in five cups of black tea can reduce bad cholesterol by 11%, thereby lowering the risk of stroke and heart disease. Tea polyphenols also help improve vascular function.

2. Promote Digestion

Green tea (unprocessed) helps stimulate intestinal peristalsis and promote food digestion. Green tea can also block about 30% of fat absorption, aiding weight loss. Peppermint tea aids digestion, ginger tea can relieve nausea (especially during pregnancy), and fennel tea helps prevent constipation, bloating, and abdominal cramps.

3. Sharper Mind

British research found that caffeine and L-theanine in black tea can improve cognitive abilities. Drinking two cups of black tea can enhance attention. Additionally, drinking more than 100 ml of tea (or coffee) daily can reduce the risk of glioma (the most common brain tumor) by 34%.

4. Lower Cancer Risk

The polyphenol antioxidants in tea (especially green tea) are eight times more abundant than those in fruits and vegetables. These substances can prevent cancer cell growth. A study in Taiwan found that drinking one cup of green tea daily can reduce the risk of lung cancer. Additionally, drinking tea can slow the progression of prostate cancer and reduce the risk of stomach cancer.

5. Boost Immunity

A Harvard University study found that drinking 5-6 cups of tea daily significantly improves immunity, metabolism, and skin health. Tea also helps the body recognize and fight bacteria and parasites. Ginger tea has anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and circulation-stimulating effects, and can relieve migraines.

6. Treat Insomnia and Anxiety

Black tea has a high caffeine content, so it is best not to drink it before bed. However, most herbal teas are caffeine-free. The tryptophan and amino acids in chamomile tea have a calming effect, while another substance, chrysin, can relieve anxiety and promote sleep, helping to treat insomnia. Lavender tea can relax the mind and body. Basil tea has a sedative effect.

7. Protect Teeth

Although drinking tea can cause tooth discoloration, tea polyphenols can fight bacteria, prevent tartar, and protect against dental diseases and cavities. Both white tea and green tea have this effect. Fruit teas are acidic and can damage tooth enamel.