7 Amazing Health Benefits Of Black Tea

The beverage that is consumed the most all around the world is water, and following closely after it is tea. Camellia sinensis plant is where all tea comes from—the different ways the tea is harvested and processed result in the production of different types of teas. 

After harvesting, black tea leaves are wilted, bruised, rolled, and oxidised. The leaves are left out in the open for an extended period to allow them to dry. This promotes the brown colour and the familiar smell of the leaves as the enzymes break down the chemicals in the leave. This process is known as oxidation. Although the process is very similar, green tea is produced without oxidation. Therefore, there is a possibility that the oxidation process confers health benefits on black tea that are absent in green tea.

For instance, the minerals found in black tea may lower the chance of developing numerous types of cancer, prevent the heart from developing atherosclerosis, and assist in keeping blood pressure at a healthy range. However, one must remember that black tea is no alternative medicine to treat cancer, and proper medical care is necessary for those suffering from it.  Learn more about the health benefits of drinking black tea and the nutrients provided by it by reading this article.

Table Of Contents

1. What Is Black Tea?

2. Nutritional Contents Of Black Tea

3. 7 Health Benefits Of Drinking Black Tea

4. The Final Say 

5. FAQs

What Is Black Tea?

Black tea is a healthy type of tea among various teas. Like all other teas, this type of tea is also extracted from the plant Camellia Sinensis. Oxidation results in The leaves of the plant turning black. Black tea is stronger than its counterparts and has a good amount of caffeine.

In comparison to its other varieties, black tea is the type that is drunk the most around the world due to the rejuvenating and anti-ageing effects it possesses.

Nutritional Contents Of Black Tea

The NCI note that tea contains

• Alkaloids, including caffeine, theophylline, and theobromine
• Amino acids
• Carbohydrates
• Proteins
• Chlorophyll
• Fluoride
• Aluminium
• Minerals and trace elements
• Volatile organic compounds, which contribute to its odour and taste

7 Health Benefits Of Drinking Black Tea

Here is a list of health benefits of black tea, curated and brought to you by ToneOp.

1. Antioxidant Properties

Drinking black tea helps the body get rid of toxins and reduces the amount of damage that has been done, aiding in the of the body. Detoxification This, in the long run, brings about a reduction in the risk of chronic diseases.

A combination of polyphenols, such as thearubigins, catechins and theaflavins, are the primary sources of antioxidants in black tea, promoting overall health.

Another research confirmed the role of catechins from green tea extract on body weight. It was found that those who drank a bottle containing 690mg of catechins from tea daily for 12 weeks showed reduced body fat.

2. Enhances Gut Health

Our digestive tract is home to trillions of different types of bacteria, some of which play critical roles in maintaining our health.

Certain Studies tell that these bacterias help combat type 2 diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, cardiovascular disease, and even cancer.

Drinking black tea aids in maintaining excellent gut health by promoting the growth of good bacteria and inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria such as Salmonella. It prevents Salmonella from spreading. In addition, black teas have antibacterial characteristics that can eliminate germs in the digestive tract and repair damage to the lining of the digestive tract.

3. Helps Reduce The Risk Of Cancer

There are 100+ types of cancer, some of which can not be prevented.

Although, studies conducted recently by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) say that the presence of polyphenols in black teas may decrease the risk of tumour growth.

In particular, black teas reduce the risk of skin, breast, lung, and prostate cancers.

Another test-tube study examined the effects of the polyphenols in tea on cancer cells. It revealed that black and green tea might regulate cancer cell growth and prevent new cell development.

Despite this, black tea cannot be considered a viable alternative for cancer treatment because there is insufficient research on human cells and black tea.

4. Improves Heart Health 

Black tea also have flavonoids which are antioxidants that benefit heart health.

Flavonoids can also be obtained from fruits, vegetables, red wine, and even dark chocolates besides tea. 

It was found in a research paper that the consumption of black and green tea led to a lowering risk of stroke in up to 21% of the people who consume three or more cups of black tea than those who consume only one cup a day. Therefore, adding black tea to your diet daily can help you significantly reduce your risk of future health complications.

5. Helps Lower Bad LDL Cholesterol

LDL is known as "bad" lipoprotein as they are responsible for carrying cholesterol to our cells throughout the body. On the other hand, HDL is the "good" lipoprotein since they carry the cholesterol toward the liver for excretion away from your body. Excessive LDL in our body accumulates a waxy deposit called plaques in the arteries, which could lead to problems like stroke.

Fortunately, studies have revealed that drinking black tea can help reduce the amount of LDL in your body, reducing the risk of a stroke or heart failure. Another study showed that drinking five cups of black tea daily reduces LDL cholesterol by 11% among individuals with mild or moderately elevated cholesterol levels.

6. Helps Improve Focus 

Black tea has caffeine and an amino acid called L-theanine, which can help improve alertness and focus. Studies suggest that beverages containing a combination of L-theanine and caffeine enhance the alpha activity brain and have a more significant impact on focus and alertness. Compared to a placebo, the results of another study revealed that participants who consumed black tea daily saw a minor improvement in their concentration and focus, as well as a higher level of subjective self-awareness.

7. Improves Oral Health

Tea Trade Health Research Association funded research that indicated a reduction of plaque formation and restricted bacterial growth in the mouth who consumed black tea. 

The consumption of black tea restricts bacterial growth and tooth decay and reduces cavities but also suppresses cavity-causing bacteria that obstruct the growth of bacterial enzymes responsible for the formation of the sticky-like material that binds plaque to our teeth because of the presence of polyphenols in black tea. 

The Final Say 

Black tea is power packed with health benefits that are quite impactful and significant. The abundance of antioxidants and several other nutritious compounds that possess anti-inflammatory properties makes black tea a class apart from others. Camellia Sinensis is the source of the variety of teas available. However, the processing of all the varieties is what makes them different. Black tea, also described as an astringent, is the purest form extracted from the plant as they are processed after they are completely oxidised. These were the seven intriguing reasons why you should drink black tea often.

FAQs

1. Can black tea consumption be harmful as well?

Black tea contains a high amount of manganese. The body needs this mineral, but its excess can also be toxic. The longer the tea brews, the higher the concentration of these toxic elements. Therefore, Brewing tea for a maximum of 3 minutes can reduce the risks.

2. Does black tea help regulate blood sugar levels?

Yes, Black tea does help in regulating Blood sugar levels. The research concluded that black tea consumption helps lower our blood sugar post a meal or snack, also known as postprandial glucose. Also, it was shown that drinking black tea may enhance insulin sensitivity, particularly after a high-sugar meal or snack. 

3. Will black tea help you lose weight?

Due to its diuretic qualities, black tea may help you maintain a flat tummy. Drinking it between meals also suppresses appetite and discourages snacking, which aids in weight loss.

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