BAY CITY, Mich. -- Tea is the most widely consumed beverage in the world, second only to water. It is also arguably the most versatile drink around - able to be served at any temperature, for any occasion. During the bitterly cold winter months here in our beloved Mitten State, many of us can attest that there's nothing quite like a hot cup of the stuff to chase the chill from your bones.
In addition to its popularity, versatility, and downright deliciousness; tea has a long history of reverence for the wonderful benefits it provides both for the body and mind. It's never too late to make a change for the better when it comes to your health, and here are five ways tea can help you do it!
1. ANTIOXIDANTS
Antioxidants are natural compounds that help to promote cellular health. More recently, some studies suggest that they might even help to protect against several kinds of cancer including breast, colon, colorectal, lung, ovarian, and prostate to name a few. While the research has yet to produce concrete proof of cancer-fighting benefits, antioxidants are still great for overall physical well-being, and white tea is the best source.
2. A HEALTHY HEART
Cardiovascular disease is one of the leading causes of death in the United States, with an estimated 1 in 3 lives being claimed each year. Fortunately, of all the ways tea can benefit your health, some of the strongest evidence exists for how it can help your heart. A study published in early 2016 found that drinking one to three cups of green tea each day could potentially reduce the risk of a heart attack or stroke by 20% and 35%, respectively. Furthermore, the same study found that drinking four or more cups each day could bump heart attack risk reduction up to 32%, as well as cut down on LDL cholesterol levels.
On the flip side, four cups of green tea may result in a ton of bathroom breaks. The good news is you can score the same heart health benefits from just one cup of matcha green tea, without the stress on your bladder.
3. ANXIETY RELIEF
Anxiety is the most common mental illness in the United States, affecting over 40 million adults. Although, despite being a highly treatable condition, only about 36% of those who live with anxiety receive treatment. Several factors contribute to this number, but one of the biggest is the potential risks of prescription medication. For those who prefer to take a more natural approach to anxiety management, there are many therapeutic qualities to be found in tea.
Symptoms of anxiety can include irritability, tension, and sometimes insomnia. Chamomile tea can help to relieve all three, acting as a natural muscle relaxant that in turn creates a sense of calm to promote restful sleep. During the day, lemon balm tea has the same relaxing effect on the body by aiding in cortisol reduction (a hormone known to cause stress) without causing drowsiness.
4. ENHANCED WORKOUT
Whether you hit the gym or workout at home, regular exercise is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle. For those looking to lose weight or increase endurance, you might be tempted to employ the use of dietary and energy supplements; which have the potential to do more harm than good in the form of gastrointestinal issues, irritability, headaches, and even heart problems in some cases.
Try tea instead. Studies have found that the catechins (antioxidants) in green tea help to speed up the body's ability to burn fat as fuel, which improves muscle endurance and may even contribute to weight loss. Additionally, green tea contains just enough caffeine to keep your energy levels up without the risks to your head and heart.
5. ORAL HEALTH
Last but not least, all that tea you're drinking is actually doing wonders for your mouth. The enzyme-rich compounds in black tea are found to prevent plaque and bacteria build-up on the teeth and gums - reducing the risk of decay and disease. And unlike many other beverages like juice and pop, tea does not erode the protective enamel on your teeth, resulting in a stronger smile.
What are some ways tea has benefitted your health? Tell us in the comments!
Hank Graff Chevy is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706 and we are here to help our community grow to become an even better place to call home! For more information on Hank Graff Chevrolet, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our website: www.GraffBayCity.com.
