Tea is one of the most beloved beverages on the planet. Some enjoy it with breakfast, while others use it to unwind before bedtime.
Considering that people all around the world have been consuming this beverage for thousands of years, the question arises: What kinds of health benefits can tea offer, and are there any negative side effects to drinking it?
Most of these benefits or side effects are associated with specific types of tea, but there are a few generalizations that can be made about tea. For example, green tea is known as one of the healthiest types of tea due to its specific antioxidants, which can offer certain benefits that other herbal teas may not. Similarly, herbal teas can be unique depending on the flower they originate from, so each type will differ in what it provides.
Tea can support your heart
Waking up with a cup of tea or enjoying a cup before bedtime can be more than just satisfying your cravings. In fact, a little tea can help maintain heart health.
“Certain teas, such as black tea, green tea, and hibiscus tea, are linked to improving heart health and can help lower blood pressure, reduce LDL cholesterol levels, and enhance overall cardiovascular function,” says Dr. Amy Goodson.
It can enhance your cognitive function
Those who drink green tea will be pleased to know that their tea-drinking habit may boost their brain.
“This tea contains L-theanine, an amino acid that synergizes with caffeine to provide a smoother and longer-lasting energy boost, improving alertness and cognitive function,” says Best.
However, these cognitive benefits don’t come only from green tea.
“Caffeinated teas can also provide a mild energy boost and improve alertness and cognitive function,” says Goodson.
Tea can aid in digestion
When dealing with stomach discomfort or digestive issues, certain teas can help you relax.
“Herbal teas like chamomile, peppermint, and ginger support digestive health and help alleviate symptoms of bloating, indigestion, and nausea,” says Dr. Lisa Young.
Not only can tea provide immediate relief for improved digestion, but it can also contribute to long-term gut and digestive health. For example, the tannins in black tea may have mild antibacterial properties that support gut health by promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria,” she adds.
It can help you relax
Chamomile tea, made from dried chamomile flowers, is particularly used for sleep and relaxation.
“This tea is known for its calming effects due to the presence of apigenin, an antioxidant that binds to specific receptors in your brain, reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation,” she says.
When it comes to sleep, chamomile tea before bedtime can improve sleep quality and duration, thanks to its sedative properties that can induce a feeling of drowsiness.
You can reduce inflammation
Tea is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties. According to a study in the International Journal of Molecular Science, there is a substantial body of research supporting the positive anti-inflammatory benefits of regular tea consumption.
This study specifically focuses on green and black tea. What researchers discovered is that the properties found in green and black tea can have a significant impact on reducing inflammation in red blood cells. They even found that individuals with lupus who consumed green tea daily for 12 weeks reported less inflammation in their bodies.
