Black tea and health
Tea is one of the most ancient and popular beverages consumed
around the world. Black tea is more widely consumed than green
tea worldwide. India is the largest producer of black tea and hence it is
necessary to focus attention on black tea with respect to its health promoting
attributes.
What is Black tea ? Black Tea is more oxidized than
green tea The black tea making process involves and additional step of aeration
of the cut, withering leaves for several hours which oxidises the flavonoids as
well as darkening the leaves' colour.
Health
benefits
Until recently, tea
research has focused more on green tea. However, recent studies indicate the
compounds contained in black tea - theaflavins and thearubigens – not only
contribute to the dark color and distinctive flavor but they represent
potential molecules with therapeutic implication.
Polyphenolic compounds
present in black tea can protect cells and tissues from oxidative stress by
scavenging free radicals. Synergistic interactions amongst black tea
constituents play a major role in the beneficial effect of tea. Number of
studies with black tea have demonstrated that plasma antioxidant capacity gets
enhanced, ∼1 h after consumption of moderate amounts of tea.
Neurological disease
Reports suggest that Black tea could lower the incidence of
Parkinsons disease, Theanine present in black tea increases alpha brain wave
activity resulting in calmer state of mind and it also reduces stress.
Diabetes
Tea consumption is said to be associated with reduced risk of type
2 diabetes It may blunt the spike in sugar level after the meal.
Cardiovascular disease Black tea is said to reduce the
risk of heart problems by cutting levels of bad cholesterol and blood sugar.
Studies have shown that there is risk reduction of coronary heart disease at
intakes > 3 cups tea per day.
Cancer
Studies suggest that Tea polyphenolics inhibit tumor cell
proliferation. In addition, tea polyphenols may protect against damage caused
by ultraviolet (UV) B radiation.Theaflavin and catechins modulate immune system
function..
Osteoporosis Studies suggest that tea may positively
influence bone mineral density (BMD) and that tea drinking may protect against
osteoporosis in older women. Gastric ulcer
Tea does not cause acidity . Studies have revealed it reduces the
incidence of ulcer, in experimental animals .
Anti HIV agent
Theaflavins in tea are potent anti-HIV-1 compounds. They inhibit
HIV-1 entry into target cells.
Oral health
Random surveys have reported that black tea reduces the incidence
of dental cavities. Polyphenols in tea inhibit bacterial growth and wards off
mouth infections. Tea is a natural source of fluoride, therefore helping to
promote healthy tooth enamel. Also, tannins present in black tea inhibit the
growth of plaque-causing bacteria apart from inhibiting the action of salivary
amylase, thus making their contribution in cavity prevention.
Immune defense
By making tea a common part of your everyday food intake you can
build up your immunity. Tea won't keep you complete safe from getting sick but
it can help.
Anti aging
Being a very high source of antioxidants,
black tea is said to slow down aging process and age induced diseases.
Souce: teaboard.gov.in
