|
Knowledge is a wonderful thing as we all learned at school,
and we should be grateful for it. Still, it can be disconcerting
when research scientists condemn some of our favorite foods
and drinks as unhealthy. Eat a hearty breakfast and the world
gets on your case about fat, cholesterol, civil disobedience,
anti-social behaviour, sedition and sloth. For that reason,
it is both encouraging and refreshing to note that some health
experts are saying good things about
tea. We are enjoying
something that may actually be good for us. That is a reason
to celebrate - so put the kettle on.
 Tea
enthusiasts have extolled the health benefits of their favorite
drink for centuries. In recent times most attention has been
paid to the beneficial effects of green tea which, of course,
is used in the Japanese tea ceremony. Green tea is rich in
minerals and vitamins such as Vitamin C and the B vitamins.
It contains manganese, magnesium, potassium and fluoride.
Some researchers believe that green tea not only helps people
relax - a major health benefit on its own right there - but
that it may lower the risk of heart disease and strokes and
even reduce the risk of some cancers.
But there is evidence now that black tea
- the tea that most people drink in the West - may also reduce
the threat of stroke and heart disease. The experts say that
the benefits come from anti-oxidants in tea's flavonoids which,
studies suggest, may help to lower cholesterol and blood pressure
while aiding the body to resist cancers. If you have never
encountered the word "flavonoids" before, they are plant phenolics
with known anti-oxidant properties, which the body absorbs
from a diet rich in fruit and vegetables. Mum used to urge
you to eat all your veggies - and she was right. They are
good for you. Today she would tell you to drink your five
cups of tea a day because they are good for you too.
Think of it this way. Every time you stop
what you are doing for a cup of tea, you are putting the tensions
and stresses of a busy day on hold. Then as you sit back to
enjoy the flavor and aroma of your favorite brand, you are
treating your body to a new supply of those helpful little
flavonoids which can add up to as much as 300 milligrams a
cup. All of this in a beverage that, taken without milk or
sugar, has no fat or calories to talk of. With milk you get
calcium, vitamins and all the other good stuff. The research
is still incomplete, but it does seem that we tea drinkers
are on to a good thing.
Coming soon ... a glossary of health
teas and wellness ingredients.
|
