By Kate Leo
Fall is approaching which means we are all excited for the leaves to start changing and to begin pulling out our sweaters for the cooler weather. One of my favorite parts of fall is curling up somewhere in a warm space with a cup of tea to do my homework or watch TV. Tea is one of my favorite warm drinks, but I always struggle with what to get. The grocery store has rows and rows of different flavors, claiming that theirs has the most vitamins or antioxidants. I always end up with my classic choice of Vanilla Chai, but what really is the healthiest tea to drink?
There are five “true” teas: black, green, white, oolong, and pu-erh. They are all made from the same plant: Camellia sinensis. This plant has essential oils, polyphenols, phytonutrients, enzymes, and methylxanthines, all of which contribute to your healthiness. Although all the “true” teas have benefits, one type seems to prevail as the most beneficial.
Green tea is highly recommended to drink daily for improved health. First, the tea has bioactive compounds. Polyphenols fall into this category which decreases inflammation. Catechins are also in the tea. It is an antioxidant that helps to stop cell damage. Although it’s not proven, these catechins may help protect the brain from Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s because of the protective function of the compounds. Both polyphenols and catechins reduce free radicals from forming; free radicals increase aging and prospect of disease like cancer and diabetes in people. Second, green tea has been believed to improve brain function as the amino acid L-theanine helps to decrease anxiety. L-theanine combined with the caffeine in green tea have been known to increase brain function. Finally, green tea has a fat burning supplement and boosts the metabolic rate of an individual. Although tea should not be drinken in place of exercise, it can be in support of leading a more healthy and balanced lifestyle.
Companies have realized the beneficial effects of green tea, and you can now find many different flavors of green tea including pomegranate, blueberry, mint, etc. Tea in general is a great substitute for any sugary drink and even coffee due to its overall benefits. Green tea definitely dominates, and it will be something I will go to first when I am in need of a hot drink.
Sources:
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/top-10-evidence-based-health-benefits-of-green-tea#sectio n6 https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321243.phphttps://www.arborteas.com/health-benefits-camellia-sinensis/
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