Black tea is a popular drink consumed around the world, from the Arctic Circle to deserts and in both urban and rural areas. So what makes black tea so beneficial and how does it impact our bodies?
Composition and Benefits
Black tea is composed of a wealth of active elements, including vitamins, minerals, caffeine, tannins, and essential oils. The highest concentration of these beneficial compounds can be found in the first leaves of the tea plant, while subsequent leaves have fewer beneficial qualities.
Tannins give the tea its color and tart astringent taste, while essential oils provide the drink with its unique aroma. The tannins in black tea help to reduce physical fatigue and improve overall energy levels. They also help to regulate the nervous system and digestive organs by stimulating the production of gastric juice. Black tea can also normalize the acidity of the stomach, either reducing it with high acidity or increasing it with low acidity.
Tannins also have antioxidant properties, helping to suppress the growth of cancer cells and reduce the risk of cell degeneration in the body. Research has shown that drinking hot tea (not boiling water!) with a slice of lemon can reduce the risk of skin cell regeneration by over 70%. Additionally, tannins help to protect the body from the adverse effects of free radicals, preventing premature aging and maintaining a high level of immunity, and reducing the risk of atherosclerosis. Drinking a moderate amount of tea can also help to lower the body temperature during colds.
Caffeine in black tea provides similar effects to coffee, but with a milder and slower impact. It helps to increase concentration and cognitive performance. The drink also has a positive effect on blood vessels, helping to prevent the risk of stroke and improve heart function. It has a beneficial effect on the nervous system and can be recommended for seasonal neuroses, depression, and low blood pressure. The tea can improve brain activity and increase mindfulness and memory, making it a popular drink for longevity. Zinc in tea is valuable for pregnant women, but must be consumed with caution as it can harm the baby. The fluoride in tea is good for gums and teeth and helps to prevent caries and bad breath.
Harmful Effects of Black Tea
However, overconsumption of black tea can have harmful effects on the body. Drinking a strong tea on an empty stomach is not recommended for those with digestive issues. Excessive tea consumption can negatively impact the nervous system, causing fatigue and weakness. Drinking black tea before bedtime can also negatively impact the cardiovascular system. Overconsumption of tea can lead to dehydration and exhaustion, which is dangerous for those with thyroid problems. Black tea is also contraindicated for patients with glaucoma. Adding milk to the tea negates its beneficial qualities and brewing tea more than once can cause harm.
