The antioxidants known as polyphenols protect against several chronic diseases, which is why most teas are associated with health benefits. However, only black tea has a specific class of polyphenols known as theaflavins. In black tea, theaflavins, which make up 3% to 6% of the polyphenols, are produced during oxidation. Black tea delivers some of the same advantages as other forms of tea but also has some special benefits because of this.
Prevention of Diabetes
According to some research, drinking tea may help lower the chance of developing diabetes. In one trial, participants with type 2 diabetes ingested various doses of black tea extract over four weeks. Black tea without any additional sweets can lower blood sugar and help your body to better regulate sugar. Additionally, studies have shown that black tea helps normal and pre-diabetic persons with their blood sugar levels right after meals. According to the researchers, those who regularly drink black tea may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
Lowers the Chance of a Stroke
A stroke occurs when the blood vessels supplying the brain become blocked. It is the second leading cause of death worldwide. To reduce your risk of having a stroke, you can manage your diet, engage in regular exercise, control your blood pressure, and quit smoking. Thankfully, 80% of strokes can be avoided. One potential strategy to lower your stroke risk is drinking black tea. According to studies, those who drink at least two cups of tea daily may have a 16% lower risk of stroke than those who don’t.
Possibly Better for the Gut
According to studies, the type of bacteria in your stomach may greatly impact how well you feel. Black tea’s polyphenols may contribute to maintaining a healthy gut by encouraging the growth of beneficial bacteria and restraining the growth of harmful bacteria. Black tea may also have antibacterial effects that help heal the lining of the digestive tract, fight off pathogens, enhance gut bacteria, and boost immunity.
Possibly Makes it Easier to Concentrate
Black tea includes caffeine and L-theanine, an amino acid that helps with focus and alertness. L-theanine makes the brain’s alpha activity more active, which promotes calm and improves focus. According to studies, the effects of L-theanine on the brain have the biggest impact on focus in beverages with caffeine. This could explain why many people report having more consistent energy after consuming tea as opposed to other caffeinated drinks like coffee.
Black tea: How much is too much?
Unlike other types of tea, black tea contains 50 to 90 milligrams of caffeine per cup. Consuming too much caffeine can make you feel jittery, restless, and may hinder your ability to fall asleep. Keep your daily caffeine intake around 400 milligrams to prevent overcaffeination. Don’t believe that your only caffeine source is black tea, though. It would help to count your intake, including caffeine in prescription drugs.
