Aside from water, tea is the most consumed drink in the world. Tea is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. The leaves are picked, rolled, dried and cured and then infused with hot water to make the beverage enjoyed as tea. The most common varieties of tea are green tea, white tea, oolong tea and black tea. The processing of the leaves determines the type of tea that is produced. For centuries, tea has played an important role in a healthy diet, with benefits ranging from the prevention of cancer and other diseases to weight loss.
Prevention of Cancer
Tea, especially green tea, is an excellent source of cancer-fighting antioxidants. These antioxidants, also known as catechins, may help slow or even inhibit the growth of cancerous tumors. For years, scientists have known that people living in China and Japan--areas of high tea consumption--have a lower incidence of cancer. Research is still inconclusive, and further study is needed, but results are promising.
Maintaining a Healthy Heart
Research suggests that consuming a healthy diet rich in tea can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. The catechins found in green tea help fight the dangerous effects of free radicals in the blood stream. Green tea has also been shown to decreases LDL "bad" cholesterol and improves the ratio of LDL cholesterol to HDL "good" cholesterol. Green tea has also been shown to have a positive blood-thinning effect, which is helpful in reducing the risk of blood clots. A specific catechin, EGCG (epigallocatechin-3-gallate) has shown protective effects on the heart and brain in patients who have suffered from heart attack and stroke, lessening the overall damage caused by these events.
Weight Loss
Catechins, caffeine and theanine in tea have been shown to promote fat loss, specifically visceral fat, which is often associated with an increased risk for heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Research is still inconclusive and further study is needed.
Other Health Benefits
Additional research indicates a positive relationship between the consumption of tea and reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes. Studies have indicated that enjoying a cup of green tea may help prevent catching the flu as well. Further possible health benefits of tea include detoxifying the liver, preventing Alzheimer's disease, kidney disease, osteoporosis and dental cavities.
Enjoying Tea
Aside from drinking tea, there are a number of ways to incorporate the healthful benefits of tea into your daily diet. Poach fish or chicken in a broth of strongly brewed tea, ginger and soy sauce for a light and nutritious dinner. Add ground tea leaves or matcha to batters to baked goods for a burst of antioxidants. Boil noodles in your favorite tea and enjoy with fresh vegetables and chicken or tofu.
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