This winter, warm up, relax, and focus on wellness with a simple cup of tea. Tea leaves contain high levels of antioxidant compounds, called polyphenols. Due to the antioxidant capacity of tea, researchers are optimistic about the role of tea in prevention of obesity, cancer, CVD, diabetes, and other inflammatory chronic diseases.
The main types of tea include:
- Green tea (28 mg caffeine/8 oz) – made with steamed tea leaves, this cup contains high antioxidant levels of EGCG, which has been associated in research studies with prevention of tumor growth. EGCG is also correlated with improved CVD risk factors and reduced risk of neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease.
- Black tea (47 mg caffeine/8 oz cup) – made from fermented tea leaves, black tea may protect the lungs from smoke exposure as well as reduce the risk of stroke. Black tea is the most widely consumed tea in the world.
- Oolong tea (35 mg caffeine/8 oz cup) – made from partially oxidized tea leaves, oolong tea may improve insulin resistance, although more research is needed. Oolong tea also shows promising results in the research for healthy teeth by strengthening tooth enamel.
Aside from tea being beneficial to your health, tea is naturally unsweetened, lower in caffeine content than coffee, and in my personal experience, an excellent way to unwind. Holding a warm mug of subtly scented tea always helps me to relax!
If you would like more information on the health benefits of certain foods, or how to incorporate them into your day, reach out to [email protected] to schedule a nutrition counseling session! Happy and healthy tea drinking this winter season!
Content Submitted by Jessica Roy MS, RD, LDN & Nutrition Counselor