It’s Tea Time

Clearly if you do nothing else for your health, you should drink tea.

For thousands of years in the East, tea has been regarded as the key to good health, happiness and wisdom.

Its health benefits have caught the attention of researchers in the West.

“There doesn’t seem to be a downside to tea,” says American Dietetic Association spokeswoman Katherine Tallmadge, MA, RD, LD.

Although there are many varieties of teas available, research reveals that the most beneficial are those containing higher concentrations of polyphenols found in green, white, black, oolong and pu-erh teas.

Studies have shown that consuming green tea can lower cholesterol; reduce the risk of stroke, some cancers and even neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.

Black tea has the highest caffeine content and may protect lungs from exposure to cigarette smoke.

White tea has the most potent anticancer properties.

Some varieties of oolong and pu-erh teas were found to lower bad cholesterol levels.

These teas are all derived from the Camellia sinensis plant, a shrub native to China and India. They contain unique antioxidants called flavonoids and have antimicrobial qualities which inhibit the growth of bacteria. They also have caffeine and theanine, which affect the brain and seem to heighten mental alertness.

Avoid bottled varieties and restaurant sweetened tea and steep your own.

For added flavor use a lemon, a teaspoon of agave – a natural sweetener, or a small amount of cream.

You can drink tea anytime of the day but you may consider having a cup of afternoon tea.

It is virtually calorie free and a great way to fill up before dinner time.

Start drinking tea today!

For questions or comments email: suzanne_mcginnis@bellsouth.net.