What is the Healthiest Tea? Trying to find the “healthiest” Pure Ceylon Tea is not the most successful approach. Black tea, green, oolong, and white teas are all produced from the leaves of Camellia sinensis. It is how each tea is harvested or processed that differentiates the various end products from the same plant.
This means that you will find slight variances in the amounts of antioxidants in each. Different types of teas have different types of benefits. For example, white tea has the highest concentration of antioxidants because it is the least processed tea. According to this fact, it might be considered the “healthiest” of them all.
When antioxidants are concerned, white tea is followed by jasmine tea, green tea, then black tea. Each tea has different amounts of caffeine, magnesium, and theanine a factor according to their characteristics.
Since each individual is unique their bodies may react to any of these elements in different ways. For instance, some people can handle caffeine very well because of their genetics. Some people may not do so well with high caffeine teas, so those would be considered slightly less healthy for these individuals.
And yet, it’s common to hear that one type of tea or another has been found to provide specific benefits in the latest research.
Flavonoids
The Health benefits of tea often focus on flavonoids, which can be rather confusing. These flavonoids are dietary compounds plant-based phytonutrients found in tea, wine, cocoa, fruit, and vegetables.
Tea flavonoids help maintain normal blood vessel function. All teas from the Camellia sinensis plant, such as black, green, oolong, and white teas, naturally contain between 100 to 300 mg of flavonoids per serving.
Choosing one over the other type of tea depends more on personal taste than flavonoid levels.
1.) Black tea
Black tea is a famous tea. But unlike green tea and oolong tea, it is fully oxidized, which gives it a stronger flavor. Black tea has antioxidants that reduce cell damage in the body and prevents the body from rusting. Consuming black tea regularly may improve heart health and reduce the risk of high blood pressure and cholesterol. It may also lower blood sugar levels and improve gut health.
2.) Green tea
Green tea is a type of tea, that is derived from the Camellia Sinensis plant. Green teas are not oxidized and are allowed to dry under the sun or pan-dried. Green tea is considered to be one of the healthiest teas in the world. It is rich in antioxidants and contains bioactive components that improve health. It contains caffeine that can improve focus and brainpower. It also increases fat burning. Hence, it is a great way to lose belly fat. Some studies also suggest that green tea can prevent certain types of cancer. So be it for weight loss or better health, green tea is the drink of choice.
3.) White tea
White tea is a unique type of tea. But unlike black and oolong tea, it is not oxidized. Hence, it has a lighter flavor. White teas also have similar benefits like the above-mentioned teas. But apart from aiding in weight loss, improving heart health, lowering blood sugar, and cholesterol levels, white tea also has certain other benefits that are surprising.
According to a study white tea can prevent acne. This is because the antioxidants in white tea flush out toxins from the body. It also improves hair and skin health and might be beneficial during pregnancy. White tea contains fluorides and tannins which improves dental health.
Health Benefits of Tea
There are a few general health benefits that can be ascribed to all type of teas
- Regular tea drinking can contribute to good hydration, improve focus and concentration, and help maintain a positive mood throughout the day.
- Tea naturally contains zero calories. When it is used in place of higher-calorie beverages, it can help control caloric intake, which is important for managing weight.
- Green tea consumption can reduce the amount of fat in the body (known as “visceral fat”). This has been confirmed in the Eastern population but not in Western populations, but the findings suggest green tea drinking may help maintain healthy body composition.
- Three or more cups of tea per day may help maintain cardiovascular health. Population-based studies have shown that regular consumption of black tea is associated with a reduced risk of heart disease and a reduced risk of stroke.
- Clinical studies have shown that drinking two to three cups of black tea per day can help maintain healthy blood pressure and promote normal blood vessel function.
- The antioxidants present in tea helps to keep the body young and healthy. Antioxidants protect you from the body’s rust, thus keeping you youthful and protect you from pollution and damage.
- Studies have found that tea can reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Drinking tea lowers the levels of bad cholesterol in the body.
- Green tea is advertised as a weight loss product. Studies suggest that it may be true. Also, green tea may reduce bloating and aid in weight loss.
- Tea may also boost the immune system. Holy basil tea is known to boost the immune system and has been used in traditional Indian medicine to cure fever and cold.
- Certain herbal teas are also good laxatives and may aid in digestion. Drinking herbal tea can improve bowel movements and also cure diarrhea.
- Improves sleep. Drinking camomile tea reduces stress and soothes the body. This results in better sleep and can cure insomnia. Sipping hot tea after a tiring day can relax the body and provide peace of mind.
- Tea may help protect your bones. Certain studies indicate that consuming green tea may prevent bone loss. Moringa tea is rich in vitamins A and K and has more calcium content than milk. So drinking this tea is a good way to keep your bones healthy
In other words, enjoy tea no matter the type and flavor as it a healthy beverage in moderation. Tea can become a part of a healthier lifestyle and alternative to other drinks when paired with a balanced diet and exercise. Talking to your doctor about any recommendations regarding your health is also a good idea.
All types of tea are healthy. Just drink a cup of any type of tea to get its amazing benefits.