The struggle is real when the clock is ticking and you need to get out of bed for the busy day ahead, but your eyes just won’t open. Caffeinated beverages have made life easier for most of us who need a morning booster to start the day, and black tea is one of the world’s favorite morning drinks. Black tea has developed a cult following with its strong, earthy flavor and hydrating effect.
However, anything that is consumed regularly should be closely scrutinized for its effects on health. Black tea, one of the most widely consumed beverages worldwide, has been extensively studied for its health benefits and adverse effects.
What’s so special about black tea?
There are many types of tea – green, oolong, yellow, white, and black. All come from the same plant – Camellia sinensis.
Black tea undergoes an oxidation process that gives it a distinct taste and effect. Oxidation refers to the process of exposing tea leaves to oxygen-rich air for extended periods of time. It breaks down the enzymes that give black tea its color and smell.
Nutrients of black tea
Before moving on to the pros and cons, it is important to understand the nutritional content of black tea. The best black tea contains the following nutrients:
Alkaloids like caffeine, theophylline, and theobromine
carbohydrates
amino acids
chlorophyll
Proteins
Fluoride
Aluminum
Minerals and trace elements
Other organic compounds that determine its taste and smell
Here are some evidence-backed health benefits of black tea:
Helps in controlling blood pressure
Fast and high-fat food has become a regular part of our daily life. Research suggests that high-fat meals disturb the body’s blood pressure, which further affects heart function. It is commonly known as hypertension.
Black tea contains a rich compound called catechin. It relaxes the muscles lining the blood vessels. As a result, the blood pressure level decreases.
Prevents clogging of arteries
For many reasons, our arteries can become clogged with plaque. This condition is called atherosclerosis. It can result in chronic kidney diseases or cardiovascular problems. There is ample evidence to suggest that drinking black tea prevents atherosclerosis. It helps keep our arteries ‘clean’ and significantly reduces the chances of stroke or heart attack.
Improves gut health
Digestion has a profound effect on our overall health, immunity and well-being. Organic black tea has antimicrobial properties that wonderfully promote the growth of ‘good bacteria’ while inhibiting harmful gut bacteria.
You have often heard that Darjeeling black tea is good for immunity. Polyphones are the reason why it is called one of the most powerful immune boosters.
Fights cavities
Here’s one more reason to stick to your ginger black tea.
Those who drink black tea regularly need to worry less about their oral health. Modern dentistry accepts that black tea can fight cavities. Black tea powder is a natural source of fluoride. When it interacts with the tannic acid in the tea, it strengthens tooth enamel and creates a natural defense against cavities.
Excellent source of antioxidants
Natural processes and environmental stressors create unstable molecules in our bodies – known as free radicals. If left unchecked, free radicals can damage or change cells, resulting in health conditions such as atherosclerosis and even cancer. Therefore, health fanatics advocate foods and beverages rich in antioxidants. Black tea is one of the best sources of antioxidants. The oxidation process makes black tea’s antioxidants more potent. It is converted into potent cherubins, theaflavins, and flavonols.
Reduces the risk of cancer
Studies have shown that black tea can reduce the risk of developing tumors. In addition, black tea is considered beneficial for skin, breast, lung, and prostate cancer. However, more research is needed on this front.
Moderation is the key
It is said that excess of anything is poison. Black tea is good for health. However, it should be consumed in moderation for maximum benefits. Otherwise, it can contribute to the following health conditions:
Poor digestion:
Black tea is high in tannins and excessive consumption of this material can adversely affect digestion.
Should be avoided during pregnancy:
The ‘kick’ that black tea gives is due to the 2 to 4% caffeine content. It directly affects our brain function and improves alertness. However, the same material can cause health problems
During pregnancy. Therefore, pregnant women are advised not to drink more than two cups of black tea per day.
Insomnia:
Caffeine is good for the brain to some extent, but it can overstimulate the brain to the point that it can disrupt your sleep patterns. Therefore, health experts advise that it should not be consumed before going to bed. Especially people with problems like anxiety and insomnia should drink black tea in small amounts.
Anemia:
Some studies show that tannin, the active compound in black tea that gives the tea its pungent flavor, inhibits the body’s absorption of iron, leading to anemia. That is why doctors advise stopping drinking black tea two to three weeks before surgery.
Black tea is packed with powerful nutrients and has many health benefits. A person without any health problems can drink two to three cups of black tea daily.