Drink to Your Health: Tea

From the traditions of ancient China and elaborate tea ceremonies of Japan to the modern iced teas and herbal brews found in coffee shops around the world, emerging science is finally showing why tea has long been considered a tonic for physical health and mental wellness.

Recent studies are emerging that indicate that consumption of tea can help lower cholesterol and cortisol (the stress hormone) levels while acting as an anti-inflammatory. Other benefits include decreasing the risk of stroke and dementia, as well as boosting memory and concentration. These many factors can help you improve your overall health—potentially causing a chain-reaction of wellness to improve your life.

With all the new research, it's easy to understand why regular consumption of tea can be a smart health decision. But you might be thinking to yourself that you don't like tea. But there's a chance that you haven't found the right tea for you! The good news is that there is an incredible bounty of teas that you can prepare in any number of ways to please your palate.

Black Tea

One of the most common beverages consumed in the world, after water, is black tea. There are many varieties of black tea, and some of the most popular types are Darjeeling and Ceylon tea. Black tea also contains the most caffeine and can help you manage caffeine withdraws if you cut out coffee or soda. Most common forms of iced tea served in restaurants are made using black tea and can be sweetened with sugar, sugar substitute or honey.

Green Tea

A powerful antioxidant, green tea is often milder than black tea varieties and is the most popular type of tea served in China. Its many health benefits have made it more mainstream and popular in the United States. Not only can it help lower cholesterol and cortisol levels, but it can also prevent eye disease and promote calmness.

White Tea

White tea is made using young tea leaves. It has a mild flavor with low caffeine. It also may contain more antioxidants than other forms of tea since it tends to be less processed than other varieties of tea. Researchers have linked white tea to a decreased risk of diabetes.

Chamomile Tea

Chamomile tea made from the flowers of a chamomile plant, which is a member of the daisy family. It is a soothing tea that is often used to treat digestive ailments and insomnia. Additionally, it can help counter anxiety and calm panic attacks.

Oolong Tea

Oolong tea is made using the same techniques of black tea, but ferments for a shorter amount of time and has less caffeine than black tea varieties. Oolong tea is linked to improved metabolism and weight loss.

Once you start exploring different types of tea, it's also important to learn the right way to prepare each distinct variety. Most teas should be brewed with water that is not quite boiling and allowed to steep for a few minutes. A general rule of thumb is that the lighter the tea, the shorter the amount of time to steep. Then it's time to raise your mug and drink to your health!