The Power of TEA – 5 Top Tips on Tea and Health

“There is unequivocal evidence that tea as a lifestyle factor can impact health. Drinking tea should be considered part of a healthy lifestyle.”
-Dr. Carol Greenwood, Professor of Nutritional Sciences at the University of Toronto

1. Secret compound = flavonoids

Camellia Sinensis, plant from which tea leaves are derived, is rich in antioxidant like compounds called flavonoids. Tea actually contains 750 times more flavonoids than coffee.  

2. Green or black tea?

Both teas come from the same plant, it is their drying process that creates the different flavour pallet. Tea leaves destined to become green tea are dried for a shorter length of time than the tea leaves that will become black tea. The health benefits remain the same regardless of their end result, it’s a matter of preference in taste.

3. If it’s good for your heart, it’s good for your brain

There has been extensive studies done with tea and its relationship to heart health. Researchers are seeing patterns of flavonoids having powerful health benefits of reducing risk of high blood pressure, which in turn helps reduce heart disease and stroke. Tea flavonoid compounds can function as antioxidants and scientists in Australia found that regular consumption of 3 cups of black tea a day can result in significantly lower blood pressure.

4. No calorie treat!

Drinking tea is the second most consumed beverage around the world just after water. It should come as no surprise that this brewed simple drink comprised of tea leaves is so well loved. Tea catechins can also provide modest shifts in metabolism that may improve weight loss and maintenance.

5. Tea keeps caffeine in check

While caffeine is a natural compound found in many beverages, the perk of tea is that it contains 66% less than a cup of coffee. Not only does a cup of tea contain less caffeine than coffee, it still provides enough of the cognitive benefits.