Grab yourself a cup tea. It’s good for you! In fact, it is great for you. Not only does a warm cuppa help you relax and unwind, it can benefit your body in some pretty remarkable ways. There are many physical health benefits associated with drinking tea…and some emotional benefits as well. Whether you are looking for a way to get grounded each day or want to take proactive steps towards health and wellness, a cup of tea is the perfect place to start. This small addition to your daily routine can make a notable difference. Still stuck on your morning mug of coffee? Not for much longer. Here are a few of the health benefits associated with drinking tea.
Benefit #1: There Is Less Caffeine in Tea Than Coffee
Do you find yourself feeling kind of jumpy? Jittery? Does your stomach feel upset by the time lunch rolls around? You might be having a reaction to excessive caffeine. Some people can only tolerate so much per day. Others have caffeine sensitivity, which can lead to issues like headaches, restlessness, and anxiety. A single cup of coffee contains between 100 and 150 milligrams of caffeine. A cup of tea on other hand has about 30 milligrams…while non-caffeinated blends have no caffeine at all. Drinking tea is an easy way to reduce your daily intake of caffeine and avoid all of the symptoms that go along with ingesting too much.
Benefit #2: Tea Is Loaded with Antioxidants
If you are looking to improve your health, start small. Add a cup of tea to your everyday routine. Each glass is full of antioxidants, which can slow down the aging process, make your skin glow, and even prevent certain types of cancer. Some research studies have found that the antioxidants in tea can reduce your risk of developing breast cancer, skin cancer, and lung cancer – as well as liver, stomach, and oral cancer. If your focus is on antioxidants, reach for a white tea, like Darjeeling White or White Peony. White tea is thought to be less processed than other kinds of teas. As a result, it has even more of those health-boosting antioxidants.
Benefit #3: Tea Can Reduce Your Risk of a Heart Attack
It’s amazing. One cup of tea each day can have a long-term effect on your health. Countless studies have highlighted the connection between drinking tea and heart health. Research has found that overall cardiovascular health was improved among people who drank tea three or more times per week. The reason for this may be that black tea contains flavonoids, which are beneficial to heart health. Drinking black tea on a regular (or semi-regular) basis may be able to reduce the risk of heart attack and heart disease. Now that is a reason to slow down and treat yourself to a delicious cup of tea.
Benefit #4: Drinking Tea Can Improve Your Memory
Have a big presentation at work? Studying for an exam? You want to be at the top of your game. It might be worthwhile to start your day with a cup of warm green tea. The combination of low caffeine levels and L-Theanine (this amino acid is naturally found in tea) has been found to reduce stress levels and benefit your overall mood. If that wasn’t enough, green tea has also been linked to improved memory. It becomes easier to concentrate, stay focused, and retain information. Green tea is also thought to calm anxiety. Whenever you are feeling overwhelmed or need that extra something…turn on the kettle and treat yourself to a memory-boosting cup of tea.
Even More Health Benefits to Consider
Think that is all that tea can do? Not even close. There are many other noteworthy benefits associated with tea drinking. Some of them include: improved digestion, reduced risk of dementia, lower cholesterol, weight management, and an improved immune system. Some people even believe that drinking can reduce tooth loss by preventing cavities! While there have been countless studies related to drinking tea and the various health benefits…there is still more research to be done. However, one thing is certain: there is an awful lot of good that can come from this soothing beverage.
Get Grounded and Create a Ritual
While there are many health benefits associated with tea, it is important to make choices that are right for you. For instance, choosing a flavour of tea that you actually enjoy! When it comes to taste and temperature, always think about your personal preferences. Do you like hot beverages or do you prefer cold brew iced tea? Are earthy flavours your go-to or would you rather have something sweet? Be sure to factor in your taste buds and choose your drink accordingly.
Once you have chosen your tea…it is time to get grounded and create a ritual. Instead of pouring your tea into a thermos and running off to conquer that never-ending to do list, consider making this time intentional. Sit down and slowly drink your cup of tea. Maybe listen to some calming music or a guided meditation while you enjoy your beverage. Sit on the back porch or balcony and watch the world unfold. Read a book or the morning newspaper. Wondering why this is so important? Drinking tea isn’t just good for you physically. It is also a wonderful to connect to yourself and become more deeply rooted.
A cup of tea is so much more than a cup of tea. It contributes to a healthy and balanced lifestyle. So, skip the coffee and sugary drinks. Benefit your body, mind, and soul today. All it takes is a hot beverage and a few extra minutes.
