Tea as a Health Benefit
By Stephen R. Farris
When you think of tea, what's one of the first things that comes to mind? It could be all of the brands available and the variety of flavors and strengths to choose from. Then again, you might drift back to that historic date of Dec. 16, 1773, the day made famous by the Boston Tea Party.
Many people relate tea to the English tradition of afternoon tea time. But did you know the tradition is relatively young? It was actually started by Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford, in England sometime in 1840. However, drinking tea has been a staple of thousands of years and believed to have originated in China.
All those folks through the years celebrating and fighting over tea did have something right, whether they knew it or not, and that would be the health benefits of those light to dark blends we so enjoy.
Helps With Hydration
If you're working outdoors or working out in general -- inside or out -- instead of grabbing a soda to cool down with, try reaching for an ice cold bottle or glass of tea. You can also drink it hot if you prefer it that way. Just remember -- and I know this is going to raise the eyebrows of those folks in the lower southern states -- do not add sugar!
Added Protection for the Heart
Just one cup of your favorite tea (green or black) can help reduce your chances of heart problems. Turns out the antioxidants found in tea work to protect the heart and can also reduce the chances of a stroke, if you drink at least three cups per day. While that's great news, researchers are still continuing their work to find out all the benefits there are in relation to our bodies and tea.
Cancer Fighting Agents
Some research has found that drinking tea can cut down on developing certain types of cancer and may even help protect the cells in our bodies. Further research shows that tea can help with our concentration levels too. Tea contains an amino acid called L-theanine, which helps us to focus and concentrate.
A refreshing cup or glass of tea can also make us feel relaxed, especially days when our stress levels are elevated.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Houston, Tex.