Aside from water, tea is the most popular beverage in the world. All true teas, whether they’re black, green, or white, come from the Camellia sinensis plant and contain antioxidants, amino acids, and other compounds that promote good health.
White and green are the least processed types of tea and are brewed with lower temperature water, so they retain most of their beneficial compounds from the time they’re harvested. Studies suggest that these compounds, taken together, may provide health benefits, including:
- Improving heart health
- Reducing high cholesterol
- Lowering blood pressure
- Reducing the risk of cancer
- Stabilizing blood sugar
- Reducing the risk of stroke
The traditional advice to drink tea when you have a cold is also worthwhile, as tea helps prevent dehydration and may act as an anti-inflammatory.
In addition to the physical benefits, tea provides energy and focus while helping to reduce stress. Tea contains the amino acid L-theanine, which promotes relaxation, improves focus, provides energy, and reduces anxiety. Tea is also a great choice for those of us looking to reduce caffeine consumption. It contains about half the caffeine of coffee, depending on the method of preparation and variety.
Aside from all the health benefits, tea is a delicious way to warm up in the cold winter months. That’s why January is National Hot Tea Month in the U.S. and Canada.