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When you search the store shelves in search of healthy tea, you certainly most often bet on green, red or herbal. Of course, it is impossible to get used to this “ordinary” variety, i.e. black tea – it ranks second in the world in terms of liquids consumed by people. Therefore, it is worth answering the question: how does this popular drink affect our body?
Various types of tea are available on the Polish market: white, red, green and black. We present a list of the most frequently repeated myths and truths about its black variety.
Strong black tea works like coffee
Falsehood. Caffeine contained in teas has the highest activity up to the third minute of brewing. When the infusion is still “light” (and not strong), it is most stimulating. After this time, caffeine begins to bind to polyphenols and over time its stimulating properties decrease. It follows that – paradoxically – the longer the tea is brewed, the less stimulating its effect. In addition, it is worth knowing that the caffeine in tea has a different effect than that contained in coffee. In tea, it binds with polyphenols, thanks to which it has a mild effect, is not completely absorbed, only partially, and is excreted in a short time. So it has more of a “refreshing” effect than stimulating.
Green tea is healthier than black tea
False and true. Here the answer is not so clear cut. Research by scientists has proven that black tea is just as healthy as green tea. However, they differ in their effect on the human body. Although they come from the same plant, both are produced from fresh shoots, but each of them affects us differently. Despite this, a cup of black tea (depending on its quality and type) has a similar number of polyphenols as a cup of green tea. In addition, the black variety also contains theaflavin, which improves the cognitive functions of the brain and reduces blood cholesterol. Of course, we are talking about tea drunk without added sugar and juices, because its “pure form” will be the most beneficial for us.
It is unhealthy for children
Truth. It is not recommended as a drink for children, which will surprise many people. In strong black tea there are many ingredients unfavorable for children. A better form will be a weak infusion with a slice of lemon, with the addition of honey, or fruit teas, single ingredient, e.g. raspberry.
It has a dehydrating effect
Falsehood. This is one of the most common myths about tea. It hydrates as well as water, and additionally protects our body against some cancers and heart diseases. The most important and valuable component of tea are antioxidants, i.e. polyphenols.