Doctor tells about the benefits and risks of daily tea consumption

Tea is rich in antioxidants (catechins), which prevent chronic diseases and help to repair cells in the body. To get the maximum benefit, you should drink 3-5 cups a day.

OBOZREVATEL offers to familiarize yourself with the main benefits and risks of its use, voiced by Anthony Corey, MD, and published on thehealthy.com.

Reducing the burden on the heart

According to a study published in the journal Clinical Nutrition, the anti-inflammatory properties of tea can help strengthen the walls of blood vessels and reduce the burden on the heart. Catechins reduce inflammation and thus prevent the formation of plaques in vital arteries.

Reducing the risk of certain types of cancer

Antioxidants and compounds found in tea are associated with a lower risk of certain types of cancer (skin, prostate, lung, and breast). Tea drinking is one of the easiest ways to prevent it.

Reducing the risk of diabetes

Daily consumption of black tea reduces the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. According to a study published in the Asia-Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition, black tea can reduce blood sugar levels after eating sucrose-containing foods.

Reducing the risk of Alzheimer's disease

Green tea helps to develop resistance to stress and Alzheimer's disease. The polyphenols it contains protect cells from damage.

Improving sleep

Those who toss and turn frequently at night should drink a cup of herbal tea (decaffeinated) before bed. According to a study in Integrative Medicine Research, this can help improve sleep and quality of life for people with insomnia.

Improving attention

Caffeine in tea improves attention and alertness. Theanine is an amino acid that is almost unique. It can improve attention by relaxing the brain and stimulate it when it's time to focus. If you have difficulty focusing or concentrating, you should try brewing a cup of warm tea before you work.

Speed up your metabolism

Caffeine helps improve mental acuity, as well as speed up metabolism and fat burning (up to 100 calories per day). The main thing is not to overdo it. One cup of green tea contains about 40 mg of caffeine. It is recommended to limit caffeine intake to no more than 300-400 mg per day.

Impaired ability to absorb iron

Catechins affect the body's ability to absorb iron. This means that even if you consume enough foods high in iron, you won't be able to get the necessary benefits.

Although many healthy people do not suffer from this, those with iron deficiency or anemia should refrain from drinking large amounts of green tea. This includes children, pregnant women, and anyone with a history of kidney disease.

Increased risk of bleeding

Consuming large amounts of tea every day can increase the risk of bleeding from a minor cut or bruise. It also makes people more prone to bruising. Doctors require that all patients stop drinking tea 2-3 weeks before surgery.

Medications may not work

Although the benefits of tea seem endless, you should consult your doctor before increasing your daily intake. Catechins can affect some heart and blood pressure medications, so it is important to discuss everything with a specialist.

What kind of tea to choose?

When choosing tea, it is important to make sure that it is unsweetened. Even if some flavored types do not contain calories, they may contain artificial sweeteners and preservatives.

The more the tea leaf is processed, the less effective the catechins become. With this in mind, green tea is the healthiest.