Black tea is more than just a hot beverage; it is consumed by more than two-thirds of the world population, according to a study published in the journal Nutrients. It is a complex drink that originates from the Camellia sinensis plant and provides several health benefits. As far as its production is concerned, black tea undergoes a unique process called oxidation, which gives it its characteristic dark brown colour and rich flavour. Oxidation, which involves exposing the tea leaves to the air for a long time, also gives black tea its nutritional benefits that separate it from other types of tea, including green tea. Some of the common health-boosting benefits are listed below.
Also Read: Consuming Tea Everyday? How It Might Benefit Your Health
Reduces Inflammation
Several studies claim that black tea contains heart-healthy compounds that help fight inflammation and cell damage. In a study published in the Journal of Advanced Pharmaceutical Technology and Research, researchers found that both green and black tea leaves showed significant anti-inflammatory activity, with green tea being slightly more effective due to its higher content of specific flavonoids. The study also suggests that drinking black tea reduces the risk of heart problems like heart attack and stroke, conditions often involving inflammation.
Cholesterol-Lowering Properties
High ‘bad’ or Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol can increase the risk of atherosclerosis, which refers to the buildup of plaque in the walls of arteries. This condition can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and chronic kidney disease.
Black tea contains antioxidants, like polyphenols and flavonoids, which are said to tackle elevated bad cholesterol levels. These antioxidants help remove free radicals from the body, encourage the liver to produce more bile acids, which scoop up cholesterol and send it out of your system, adjust certain enzymes to slow down your body’s own cholesterol production, and combat chronic inflammation.
A 2003 study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that drinking 5 cups of black tea daily for 3 weeks significantly lowered total cholesterol by 6.5% and LDL (bad) cholesterol by 11.1%.
Blood Pressure Management
Apart from high cholesterol, high blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Fortunately, a healthy diet and regular exercise can help manage it.
A review published in Complementary Therapies in Medicine found that regular tea intake helped lower blood pressure by 4.81 mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure by 1.98 mm Hg in people with hypertension.
Also Read: Black Tea: Health Benefits And Side Effects Of Consuming This Beverage
Improves Blood Vessel Functions
Due to its rich antioxidant properties, drinking black tea is said to improve peripheral vascular functions by promoting relaxation of the blood vessels and enhancing blood flow. One study found that regular consumption of black tea was associated with a reduced risk of a specific type of stroke called small vessel stroke. However, it did not influence the risk of othertypes, like cardioembolic or large-artery strokes.
Healthy Gut Equals To Healthy Heart
Every organ in our body is connected, including our digestive system and the heart.
A healthy gut is home to several microbes that help keep inflammation in check, produce helpful chemicals that lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and raise good cholesterol (HDL), manage blood pressure, and also produce beneficial vitamins and nutrients that further improve heart health.
Therefore, eating foods rich in fibre supports the good microbes and helps the two vital organs run and function effectively.
Conclusion
If you’re a tea lover, starting your day with a glass of black tea can offer a range of health benefits, thanks to its rich content of antioxidants, particularly flavonoids.
As discussed, regular consumption of black tea has been associated with improved cardiovascular health by promoting relaxation of blood vessels, enhancing blood flow, and potentially reducing the risk of heart-related issues. However, note that individual responses may vary, and moderation is key when it comes to reaping the potential benefits of black tea.
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