For many, comfort is defined by a cup of tea. A hot cup of tea may accomplish anything, from refuelling in between tasks to igniting the mornings. In actuality, each of us has a cupboard full of containers specifically meant for tea leaves and other chai-making components. Some people like green tea, while others prefer masala chai.
Then there is a subset of tea enthusiasts who like black tea produced from premium tea leaves. It's the oxidation process that creates the difference. For example, the most oxidised tea kind is black. To give the tea its unique colour and aroma, the leaves are sun-dried. The health advantages of black tea further contribute to its appeal.
Aids In Weight Loss
Rich in flavonoids, including theaflavins and catechins, black tea helps regulate weight since it is low in calories. Weight reduction is greatly impacted by these flavonoids since they speed up fat oxidation and enhance metabolism. In addition to increasing metabolism and fat-burning, black tea also contains caffeine. The body burns more calories even when at rest when your metabolism is high.
May Improve Gut Health
A compound called polyphenol, which is abundant in black tea, helps lower oxidative stress, lower the risk of chronic illnesses, and enhance general health. Immunity can be strengthened and gut health can be enhanced by polyphenols and their antibacterial characteristics, according to Healthline.
May Improve Focus
Compared to coffee, black tea has less caffeine. Having a cup of black tea can help you concentrate better on your activities in the morning. Just be careful not to consume it on an empty stomach.
Enhances Heart Health
In terms of heart health, black tea is effective. Blood cholesterol levels are lowered by theaflavins. Additionally, there is an 8% lower risk of heart disease when consuming flavonoids, which are the same antioxidants found in nuts, dark chocolate, and red wine. Extensive research from the NCI (National Cancer Institute) indicates that a daily cup of tea can effectively reduce blood pressure, the likelihood of severe cardiovascular events (including stroke and heart attack), and the risk of heart disease-related mortality.
Lowers Blood Sugar Levels
Your body's capacity to regulate sugar can be enhanced and blood glucose can be lowered, by drinking black tea without additional sugars. Additionally, Healthline states that black tea helps normal and pre-diabetic people's blood sugar levels just after meals.
Black Tea
Here's a quick black tea recipe for you to try.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of water
- 1 1/2 tea leaves
- 1 teaspoon honey or stevia, according to your taste
Method:
- Put water in a pot and warm over medium heat for about 2 minutes, stirring now and again.
- After the water reaches a boil, add the tea leaves and stir over medium heat for approximately two minutes.
- Now, place the lid on and let the water steep the tea leaves' goodness for approximately two more minutes over low heat.
- Add honey or stevia, whichever sweetener you are using, to the tea.
- Enjoy the black tea after straining it right away.