Black tea, what is it? Properties and health benefits

Black tea is derived from the same plant as green and white tea, but obtained in a different process that offers several benefits.

Derived from Camellia sinesis, the same plant that originates green tea and white tea, black tea is a well-known drink due to its health benefits. These include weight loss, diabetes control, improved mood and digestion, disease prevention, among others.

Although the name suggests a black drink, black tea does not have this color, but rather a reddish brown tone. The difference between this tea is its amount of caffeine, which helps energize the body. However, excessive consumption can worsen problems with insomnia.

However, we are talking about a drink rich in important nutrients, which considerably improve the functioning of the body in general. Therefore, today we will learn more about black tea, how it is made and what its health benefits are.

What is black tea

As previously stated, black tea is derived from the same plant that originates green tea and white tea. However, what differentiates the three is their preparation, leaf treatment and obtaining process. While green tea is made from the young leaves of the Camellia sinesis, Black tea is obtained from the oldest shoots and leaves of the plant.

In the case of black tea, the herb is harvested and subjected to a withering process, which varies between 12 and 20 hours. Then it goes to the oxidation phase, in which the leaves come into contact with oxygen, and polyphenols are produced that give the color and flavor of the drink. Next comes fermentation, which is a longer process than the others, and therefore the antioxidant action of this tea is lower than the others. But on the other hand, it has a greater amount of caffeine.

The drink made from these herbs is very smooth, with notes of smoke, cocoa, wood and tobacco. In some cases, they feature flavors such as cranberry and hibiscus, which bring floral complements to the drink, always in balanced combinations.

Nutritious properties

So, from its production process, black tea has a series of nutritional properties. Starting with the large amount of caffeine, a substance rich in exciting properties that stimulates the brain. Furthermore, caffeine helps with digestion and has thermogenic action, which helps a lot in the weight loss and fat burning process.

Black tea is also rich in flavonoids, antioxidant properties that contribute to the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, as they reduce the oxidation of bad cholesterol. However, black tea has a lower amount of polyphenols compared to other teas derived from the same plant.

Another beneficial property of the drink is L-theanine, an amino acid that increases the body’s dopamine and serotonin levels. Both neurotransmitters related to a feeling of well-being and relaxation.

Benefits of black tea

With all these nutritional properties, black tea is a drink full of benefits that we will discover below.

Contributes to weight loss

Due to the high concentration of caffeine and polyphenols, black tea is a great option for those who want to lose weight. This is because caffeine accelerates metabolism and fat burning, while polyphenols reduce appetite. In addition to having thermogenic action, it oxidizes fats. However, it is important to remember that drinking alone does not work miracles, it helps in the weight loss process, combined with a balanced diet and physical activity.

Improves mood

That’s right, black tea increases the levels of neurotransmitters linked to a feeling of well-being and relaxation. This is thanks to L-theanine which acts in the brain increasing levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid, dopamine and serotonin. It can even be used by people undergoing depression treatment.

Prevents cardiovascular diseases

As the polyphenols present in black tea inhibit the oxidation of bad cholesterol, it helps prevent cardiovascular diseases, caused by congestion in the arteries. In addition, caffeine helps with coronary dilation, which contributes to improved heart health, even preventing heart attacks.

Protects the brain

The polyphenols present in the drink help to neutralize the stress caused by free radicals and inflammation. In this way, it helps protect the brain. In fact, black tea helps prevent neurodegenerative diseases in the elderly, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. In addition, caffeine helps improve cerebral blood flow, which stimulates attention and concentration.

Prevents cancer

As black tea has a high concentration of catechins, the drink can help prevent and fight cancer. In addition to polyphenols, they also have antioxidant action, and thus help fight free radicals that can influence the development of cancer.

Strengthens immunity

Black tea is very beneficial for the health of the digestive system, due to its high concentration of tannins. Furthermore, it helps to strengthen the immune system, fighting viruses that cause diseases such as flu, dysentery and hepatitis. Not to mention that the drink has antibacterial action.

Stimulating effect

It is no coincidence that many people drink black tea to have more energy during the day and get rid of the feeling of tiredness and drowsiness. This is because caffeine works as a stimulant, and can even replace coffee. Not to mention the presence of theophylline, a substance that helps stimulate the respiratory and cardiovascular system, the kidneys and keep the body healthy and full of energy.

Prevents premature aging

As black tea is full of antioxidants that act on cells, they inhibit excessive oxidation. In this way, it contributes to better cellular oxygenation, which means cells remain healthy for longer.

Improves digestion

As its properties act directly on the digestive system, black tea is highly recommended for improving digestion and purifying the body. Especially on those days of excess.

Control diabetes

Because it has hypoglycemic action, black tea is very effective in controlling diabetes. This is because it has a regenerative effect on pancreatic cells. Therefore, it helps in the treatment of diabetes and pre-diabetes.

Increases the chances of getting pregnant

For those who want to get pregnant, black tea can increase the chances, even when taken during the menstrual cycle. In this case, the ideal is to consume up to 2 cups of tea daily.

Improves the appearance of the skin

Black tea can be very effective in combating acne and oily skin. Therefore, it is recommended to apply a quantity of tea to the affected region with a cotton pad. Leave it to act for a few minutes and then rinse the skin.

Consumption

Black tea can be drunk hot or cold, preferably between meals. It is recommended to drink a maximum of three cups of the drink per day.

Avoid drinking tea during meals, because some substances can compromise the absorption of certain nutrients, such as iron, for example. It is also not recommended to drink tea at night due to the amount of caffeine, which can disrupt sleep. In the case of those who suffer from insomnia, I recommend drinking tea no later than 5 pm, and no more than one cup a day.

Its preparation is very simple. The measure is for each liter of water, add two tablespoons of tea. With the water boiling, add the herb and steep the drink for 5 minutes. Finally, just strain and drink. For those who want to lose weight, it is not recommended to sweeten the drink.

Caveats

Although it has several health benefits, consumption of this tea should be avoided by pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as children under 12 years of age. Furthermore, people who suffer from high blood pressure, gastric ulcers and insomnia should be careful about drinking too much of this drink. It is best to consult a doctor before consumption.

This is because high concentrations of caffeine can result in increased blood pressure, gastric disorders, anxiety, headaches, excessive agitation and insomnia. In more serious cases, excessive consumption of the Camellia sinensis plant can be toxic to the nervous system, and cause convulsions, delirium and tachycardia.

Anyway, what did you think of this article? In fact, take the opportunity to also check out the benefits of jasmine tea.

Sources: Famiglia Valduga Your Health My Life

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