Black tea: 9 benefits that will surprise you

Originally from Japan, the plant camellia sinensis, which gives rise to black tea, has thought-provoking properties. Its antioxidant power draws attention for causing an improvement in mood, not to mention disease prevention.

Black tea is also widely sought after by women in the weight loss process, in addition to having more flavor and caffeine than other variations of teas available on the market.

black tea benefits

So let’s get to the important part and get to know some of the benefits of this well-known tea.

1. Slimming

Much sought after for its association with weight loss, black tea helps with weight loss because it contains caffeine, which accelerates metabolism, facilitating the burning of fats. This guarantees the thermogenic properties of the drink. In addition, it still has polyphenols, known as catechins, which reduce appetite and also act in reducing fats in the body. It is important to remember that this tea has very few calories, about two per cup. It also acts as a powerful diuretic, which reduces swelling from fluid retention.

2. Maintains heart health

Known to prevent cardiovascular diseases, the polyphenols present in black tea prevent the oxidation of bad cholesterol, LDL. This is also avoided since the caffeine in the drink influences the dilation of the vessels, preventing heart attacks, for example. The manganese present in tea also keeps the heart healthy by reducing the risk of coronary heart disease.

3. Protects the brain

Brain degeneration is often caused by inflammation and oxidation of brain cells. In this way, black tea polyphenols act by neutralizing these problems caused by free radicals, proving to be a potent antioxidant. Also, caffeine, found in high levels in tea, increases brain blood flow, stimulating attention and concentration.

4. Maintains the beauty of skin and hair

As already said, black tea is rich in antioxidants, which are also responsible for maintaining skin health, preventing conditions such as acne. It also reduces oxidation that damages hair and skin, making them stronger and more beautiful. In addition to keeping the body always hydrated, as the sodium and potassium in black tea maintain the body’s water levels.

5. Well-being

Another important element is L-theanine, an amino acid that increases levels of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), dopamine and serotonin. These neurotransmitters send the body a feeling of relaxation and well-being. Tea is also known to reduce the body’s cortisol levels, decreasing stress.

6. It hinders the development of cancer

Free radicals are responsible for DNA damage, influencing the development of cancer. Black tea polyphenols, possessing antioxidant properties, help to eliminate free radicals, decreasing the incidence of cancer.

7. Helps the digestive system

Other important components of black tea are tannins, which have the function of reducing intestinal activity, acting as a therapeutic for diseases of the digestive system. Caffeine also works in this part as, like tannins, it increases the production of digestive acids.

8. Brings energy

As already mentioned, caffeine is an important component of this tea and perhaps its main function is to provide energy to the body. It not only stimulates metabolism and maintains brain health, but also maintains alertness. The caffeine in tea (less than in coffee) works as a subtle stimulant, this is because of a compound found only in tea, theophylline. This substance stimulates the respiratory system, heart and kidneys, keeping the body healthy and full of energy.

9. Increases immunity

The tannins in black tea, in addition to ensuring the health of the digestive system, also have the ability to fight viruses such as flu, dysentery and hepatitis, exerting an antibacterial effect. One of these tannins, named catechin, even helps to decrease the incidence of tumors. And, to improve, the drink also contains antigens, which increase the body’s immunity, decreasing the frequency of the appearance of diseases.

Better impossible, right? No wonder black tea is so popular everywhere.

Differences between teas

Just like black tea, white and green teas are also very popular, but do you know the difference between them? After all, the three are made from the plant camellia sinensis.

White tea

What mainly differentiates these three variations of teas is the stage in which the plant is harvested and the way in which they are prepared. White, for example, is produced from young leaves, stems and shoots. These are considered the best parts of the plant, which are harvested before the flowers open. At this stage, the parts used have a light color, which guarantees the name of the drink. White tea does not go through the fermentation process, having more antioxidants and less caffeine than others.

Green tea

It is made with the plant that is a little older, but has not yet gone through such a large fermentation stage. In this way, the antioxidant effect is very present, although in smaller amounts than white, but has a greater amount of caffeine.

Black tea

This one is made with the oldest leaves and goes through a longer fermentation process. Therefore, it has less antioxidant action than the other two teas and a lot of caffeine, which contributes to weight loss. It differs from the others because the leaves are completely oxidized, leaving them with a darker tone and stronger flavor.

Who knew that with the same plant, three amazing types of tea would emerge? Each with its own unique properties and characteristics.

How to consume black tea

It is necessary to remember that despite all its benefits, black tea should be consumed in moderation, trying not to exceed the limit of 3 cups of the drink daily. So to learn how to make this special tea, check out the recipe below.

1. To start, boil 1 liter of water;
2. After starting to boil, add 3 tablespoons of tea leaves and turn off the heat;
3. Steep the mixture for 5 minutes, so that the water absorbs all the flavor and qualities of the herb;
4. Then strain the contents, sweeten if necessary and the tea will be ready for consumption.

It is worth mentioning that due to its high doses of caffeine, tea consumption is preferable during the morning and afternoon. Drinking it at night can make it difficult to sleep.

Consumption alerts

Despite everything, some care is necessary before consuming this tea, as some of its substances can cause problems for certain people.

Therefore, the drink should be avoided by pregnant women, as some elements can cross the placental barrier, affecting the baby. Hypertensive, heart and people with stomach problems and sleep disorders should also be careful. Due to the high amounts of caffeine, consumption can increase blood pressure, agitation, tachycardia and gastric disorders.

Furthermore, excessive consumption of the plant camellia sinensiseither by drinking black tea in large quantities, or mixing its consumption with green and white teas, can cause toxicity to the body, in addition to interfering with the absorption of iron by the body.

Knowing this, black tea, when consumed properly, becomes a perfect option to be included in the diet, ensuring the well-being and health of anyone.

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. They do not replace the advice and follow-up of doctors, nutritionists, psychologists, physical education professionals and other specialists.