Steep Yourself in Celebration: A Toast to International Tea Day with PoM!
DiPaMe-052024 ... Mark your calendars, tea lovers! - International Tea Day 2024 is upon us, and here at PoM – Peace of Mind… Happy Life!, we're raising a steaming cup (or mug) in it's honor.
Throughout this week, we'll be embarking on a global tea adventure, exploring the rich traditions and health benefits of this beloved beverage.
Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of tea ceremonies across continents, discover the potential health benefits of different tea types, and take a deep dive into the serenity of the Japanese tea ceremony.
And to enhance your tea journey, don't forget to explore our collection of delightful tea-themed printables in the PoM online store! - From mugs and tumblers to coasters and tote bags, you'll find everything you need to celebrate the magic of tea in style.
So, grab your favorite cup, settle in, and let's embark on a journey fueled by the aroma and flavor of tea! - If you missed it, this blog article is part 2 of 3 and follows part 1 "A Global Journey Through Tea Ceremonies" (published on 19th May).
part 2 of 3: Tea for Your Health ... a steamy brew of benefits
Tea has been enjoyed for millennia, not just for its taste, but also for its potential health benefits.
Let's explore in a short summary the science behind this time-tested beverage:
Health Benefits of Tea:
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Rich in antioxidants: Tea boasts various antioxidants, particularly flavonoids, which can help combat cell damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer (Source [1]).
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Boosts brain function: Studies suggest tea, particularly green tea, may improve cognitive function and memory due to the presence of caffeine and L-theanine, an amino acid with calming effects (Source [2]).
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May aid weight management: Tea, especially green tea, may modestly increase calorie burning and promote fat loss (Source [3]).
- Supports a healthy heart: Tea consumption may help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease (Source [4]).
Specific teas, specific benefits:
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Ginger tea: May aid digestion and reduce nausea [Source: National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health - Ginger (Source [5]).
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Peppermint tea: May soothe digestive issues like bloating and cramping (Source [6]).
- Chamomile tea: Known for its calming properties, may promote relaxation and sleep (Source [7]).
Choosing the Right Tea:
Many tea types offer health benefits. Here's a short breakdown of some of the most favorite tea blends:
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Green tea: Generally considered the healthiest due to its high antioxidant content, particularly epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG). Green tea has been linked to various health benefits, including:
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Reduced risk of chronic diseases: Studies suggest green tea consumption may help reduce the risk of heart disease, certain cancers, and type 2 diabetes (Source [8]).
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Improved cognitive function: Green tea's caffeine and L-theanine content may enhance cognitive function, memory, and focus (Source [9]).
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Reduced risk of chronic diseases: Studies suggest green tea consumption may help reduce the risk of heart disease, certain cancers, and type 2 diabetes (Source [8]).
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Black tea: Offers a good balance of antioxidants and caffeine content. Black tea also boasts potential health benefits, such as:
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Improved heart health: Black tea consumption may help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease (Source [10]).
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Increased alertness: The caffeine content in black tea can enhance alertness and improve cognitive performance (Source [11]).
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Improved heart health: Black tea consumption may help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease (Source [10]).
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Herbal teas: While not technically "tea" (derived from the Camellia sinensis plant), herbal infusions like chamomile and peppermint can provide specific health benefits:
- Chamomile: Known for its calming properties, chamomile tea may promote relaxation and improve sleep quality (Source [12]).
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Peppermint: Peppermint tea may help soothe digestive issues like bloating, indigestion, and nausea (Source [13]).
We, the tea enthusiasts at PoM, are passionate about sharing the wonders of tea. - However, we understand that everyone's body is unique, and what works for one person may not be suitable for another. Read carefully following note for your own health:
Note - Disclaimer: The information presented in this blog post regarding the health benefits of tea is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Here are some important things to keep in mind:
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We encourage you to discuss any questions or concerns you may have about tea consumption with your doctor. They can provide personalized advice based on your individual health needs.
By understanding the potential health benefits of different teas, you can make informed choices to incorporate this delicious beverage into your wellness routine. - Enjoy tea as part of a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise.
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For Bookmarking and re-reading:
- 19th May 2024 ... part 1: A Global Journey Through Tea Ceremonies
- 20th May 2024 ... part 2: Tea for Your Health ... A Steamy Brew of Benefits
- 21st May 2024 ... part 3: Unveiling the Serenity ... a deeper Dive into the Japanese Tea Ceremony
... and subscribe our free Newsletter (scroll down to the bottom of this page).
Link list (sources) - References:
[1] National Institutes of Health - Green Tea and Health (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2855614/)[2] Healthline - 10 Evidence-Based Benefits of Green Tea (https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/top-10-evidence-based-health-benefits-of-green-tea)
[3] National Institutes of Health - Tea & Health, Studies in Humans (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4055352/)
[4] WebMD - Are There Health Benefits to Drinking Tea? (https://www.webmd.com/diet/tea-health-benefits) (Note: This article by WebMD provides a general overview, but doesn't link to specific studies)
[5] National Institutes of Health - Ginger (https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/ginger) (Note: While not directly about ginger tea, this page covers the potential health benefits of ginger)
[6] WebMD - Peppermint Tea (https://www.webmd.com/diet/mint-tea-health-benefits) (Note: This article by WebMD provides a general overview, but doesn't link to specific studies)
[7] Mayo Clinic - Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) (https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320031)
[8] National Institutes of Health - Beneficial effects of green tea: A literature review (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2855614/)
[9] Examine.com - Green Tea (https://examine.com/supplements/green-tea-extract/research/)
[10] The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition - Black tea consumption and risk of fatal coronary heart disease and stroke: a meta-analysis (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8366653/)
[11] National Institutes of Health - Dietary Supplements for Physical Performance Enhancement (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7739593/) (Note: While not directly about black tea, this page discusses the effects of caffeine, a component of black tea)
[12] The Journal of Advanced Nursing - A review of the efficacy of chamomile in the treatment of anxiety (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27912875/)
[13] National Institutes of Health - Peppermint Oil (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35994817/)