The beneficial effects of tea on health
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For millennia, tea has been much more than just a soothing beverage. Appreciated worldwide for its many virtues, it has survived through the ages and civilizations, earning a place of honor alongside water and coffee. A growing body of scientific evidence attests to the benefits of tea on our overall well-being. This article explores in depth the recognized and sometimes unsuspected properties of this ancient beverage.
Exceptional antioxidant properties
Tea, a real shield against free radicals
Tea is known for its powerful antioxidant properties. Antioxidants in tea, such as polyphenols and catechins , play a vital role in fighting free radicals , unstable molecules that can cause cell damage and promote premature aging. Regular tea consumption may increase protection against the damaging effects of free radicals, helping to maintain long-term health.
Green tea, the champion of antioxidants
Among the different varieties of tea, green tea stands out for its exceptional antioxidant content. Thanks to its minimal processing, green tea retains a large portion of its bioactive compounds, including catechins , which are molecules with powerful antioxidant properties. Several studies have looked at the fact that regular consumption of green tea could help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, certain types of cancer, and even neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease. It is important to note that these results would be observed in regions where green tea is consumed regularly and may not apply in regions where black tea is more popular and generally consumed with milk or sugar.
Black tea, a little-known health ally
Although green tea is often touted for its antioxidant properties, black tea shouldn't be overlooked. While it contains fewer catechins than green tea, it does contain other equally beneficial antioxidants, such as theaflavins and thearubigins . These compounds play a vital role in protecting the body from environmental stressors and may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Effects on cardiovascular health
A reduction in LDL cholesterol
Teas, especially black tea, are thought to have beneficial effects on LDL cholesterol, often referred to as "bad" cholesterol. This reduction may help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Improved blood circulation
Compounds in tea, including flavonoids , have the ability to dilate blood vessels and improve circulation. This blood thinning may help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of blood clots, two key factors in preventing cardiovascular events.
A strengthening of the immune system
Stimulation of natural defenses
Tea contains many components that help strengthen the immune system, including polyphenols and alkylamines . These substances stimulate the production of immune cells, thus increasing the body's resistance to infections.
In parallel, an observation of a reduction in blood sugar peaks in type 2 diabetes has also been observed thanks to epigallocatechin 3 gallate (EGCG), a component of green tea.
Support for intestinal flora
Tea also contains prebiotics, fibers that nourish the beneficial bacteria in the gut microbiota. By promoting a balanced gut flora, tea may help improve the immune system, since a large portion of the immune system's defenses are located in the digestive tract.
Beneficial effects on mental health
Reduced stress and anxiety
Tea infusions, especially chamomile and green tea, have calming properties. L-theanine , an amino acid found in green tea, helps reduce stress and anxiety, promoting a sense of calm and well-being.
Improved focus and energy
Matcha tea and black tea are known for their ability to improve concentration and alertness. The combination of caffeine and L-theanine they contain provides a steady and sustained energy boost, which is conducive to maintaining optimal cognitive performance during periods of intense work.
Digestive benefits
A digestive aid
Certain herbal teas, such as peppermint tea and ginger tea, are valued for their beneficial effects on digestion. They can help relieve bloating, stomach cramps, and promote healthy digestion.
Relief from digestive disorders
Tea is also used to relieve various digestive disorders, such as indigestion and nausea. Mint, ginger, or chamomile infusions are particularly effective at improving digestive comfort and relieving stomach upset.
Tea has transcended its role as a comforting beverage to become a true health ally. Its multiple properties—antioxidant, cardiovascular, immune, mental, and digestive—make it a valuable choice for supporting overall well-being.
Sources:
https://observatoireprevention.org/2018/10/22/le-the-et-la-sante-cardiovascular/
https://cordis.europa.eu/article/id/413293-trending-science-tea-helps-you-live-longer-study-finds/fr
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/2047487319894685
https://ajcn.nutrition.org/article/S0002-9165(23)05354-6/fulltext
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/11521830_The_Role_of_Tea_in_Human_Health_An_Update
https://www.biocodexmicrobiotainstitute.com/fr/le-vert-cest-bon-pour-mon-microbiote
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6835862/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8271705/
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