Tea comes in three different varieties: black tea, oolong tea and green tea. They differ by fermentation--black tea is fully fermented, oolong tea is only partially fermented and green tea is unfermented. Varieties of tea further delineate by grade. Leaf size determines grade, with larger leaves producing a lower grade tea. All pekoe leaves are large leaves, but orange pekoe is smaller than pekoe.
Offers Theaflavins
Black tea's primary health benefit comes from theaflavins, according to "Passion for Tea" by Beverly Rorem. Theafalvins reduce LDL cholesterol, support lipoprotein metabolism and work in tandem with polyphenols to promote healthy bodily function. Theaflavins are a result of the oxidation process during fermentation. Accordingly, black tea contains the most theaflavins, while green and white tea do not contain it all.
Helps Prevent Illness
There are various illnesses that black tea may help prevent due it its various effects on the body when ingested. For example, Medline Plus indicates that black tea may reduce the risk of heart attacks, kidney stones, Parkinson's disease, ovarian cancer, hardened arteries and dizziness associated with age. In addition, black tea increases metabolism, stabilizes serum glucose levels and contains fluoride, which strengthens tooth enamel as well as bones.
Anti Aging Qualities
Black tea has anti-aging qualities, particularly when ingested regularly over long periods. This is likely due to its myriad of health benefits. For example, antioxidants prevent wrinkles and produce healthier-looking skin. In addition to a healthy diet and active lifestyle, long-term tea consumption can maintain a healthy composition that prevents some of the physical deterioration typically associated with aging.
References
- "Passion for Tea: Its History, Its Future, Its Health Benefits"; Beverly Rorem; 2008
- "Understanding Food: Principles and Preparation"; Amy Christine Brown; 2007
- A 2 Z of Health, Beauty and Fitness: Health Benefits of Black Tea
- Medline Plus: Black Tea
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