The Health Benefits of Black Tea

Since more research is done on green tea in regards to health benefits, it is easy to believe that green tea is the only tea worth drinking. This simply is not true! The health benefits of black tea are abundant. Black tea is a powerful source of antioxidants, which slow down the aging process and prevent a wide variety of diseases. Some black tea health benefits include its antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, which provide protection against tooth decay and infection as well as relief from arthritis.

Though some of the most important antioxidants that the tea plant contains are compromised during the black tea fermentation process, studies show that black tea still contains several antioxidants. Among the most important antioxidants in the tea plant are theaflavins, which remain intact even after fermentation. The theaflavins in black tea have been shown to scavenge abnormal cells and dispose of them before they can do damage or mutate into cancer cells. Theaflavins are also known to inhibit oxidation, particularly the oxidation of LDL cholesterol. This gives black tea the health benefit of significantly reducing blood cholesterol and thereby reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Drinking black tea on a regular basis may even help patients who have existing cardiovascular disease. According to a study in Circulation: Journal of the American Heart Association, tea consumption is associated with an increased rate of survival following a heart attack. As such, the health benefits of drinking black tea are important for anyone at risk of or already suffering from cardiovascular disease.

A study in Germany found that drinking black tea significantly improved the ability of the arteries to relax and expand in order to maintain healthy blood pressure. The study showed that the molecules in tea known as catechins helped dilate the blood vessels by producing a chemical called nitric oxide.

So, as you can see, green tea isn't the only type of tea that is good for you. The health benefits of drinking black tea are also numerous. That's good news since 80% of the tea consumed in the world is black tea!

Here's to a long and healthy life. Enjoy!

Disclaimer: Although we strive to provide you with current, accurate information, we do not recommend tea as a cure or remedy for any health problems. Please consult a physician to ensure that drinking tea will not adversely affect your health or medical condition.