Enjoying a healthy lifestyle doesn't mean reducing pleasures. In fact, one of the healthiest things you can do for yourself is simply adding a tasty drink to your daily routine. Black tea's numerous health benefits are scientifically sound, and along with the drink's rich taste and varied styles, you can't go wrong with a morning or evening cup! Here are the greatest health benefits that black tea has to offer! A Reduced Risk of StrokeDrinking more than 3 cups of black tea a day can reduce the risk of stroke by nearly 21%. Researchers found that this effect worked across all genders and ages and is due to the tea's helpful effects on the heart and arteries. While many things factor into the risk and severity of strokes, adding black tea into your diet is a simple, tasty, and effective way of preventing a terrible occurrence. Prevention of Cavities, Plaque Formation, and GingivitisBlack tea contains many beneficial substances including polyphenols. Polyphenols help your mouth by suppressing the bacterias and sugars that can eventually lead to tooth decay. They also slow down the production of plaque so that your teeth remain shiny and smooth. This also leads to a decreased risk of gum problems such as gingivitis. As with all oral benefits, your breath will remain fresher throughout the day as well! Cancer-Fighting AntioxidantsThe previously mentioned polyphenols are a group of strong antioxidants that differ from those found in fruits and vegetables. Their main claim to fame is fighting destructive free radicals in the body. By hindering their growth, your body has a better chance of preventing cancers and tumors from forming or spreading. This is especially helpful for those who regularly consume tobacco or alcohol. While black tea cannot cure a preexisting cancer, it still remains one of the simplest and most affordable ways to add daily health and pleasure into your life. Prolonged RelaxationBlack tea relaxes with its ritualistic preparation, smooth taste, and pleasant fragrance. However, it also reduces stress significantly through its unique chemical compounds. While caffeine may be the most known substance found in black tea, you also get helpful compounds such as L-theanine which can improve the production of serotonin to improve your mood. Along with this, black tea reduces the amount of cortisol (the stress hormone) in your body. While excessive caffeine and a lack of sleep can increase cortisol production, black tea contains comparatively little caffeine and has been proven to reduce the overall amount of cortisol released throughout the day. A Steady Energy BoostCoffee contains a lot of caffeine which can be difficult for those suffering from heart palpations or anxiety. However, the small amount of caffeine in black tea is the perfect amount for a mild boost without excessive stimulation. A little caffeine allows your brain to become more activated without an increase in heart rate or restlessness. This makes black tea a perfect companion for long workdays, early mornings, and even as a pre-workout drink. To get the most benefits, drink your black tea straight without any added milk, sugar, honey, or other fillers. Most of these simply add more carbs and sugars. Try different blends of teas as well since some have smokier flavors while others are richer and deeper. By adding black tea into your diet, you will reap numerous health benefits in the tastiest way imaginable! |
More From SparkPeople
|